Manifold and nozzle closure/seal system

Abstract

A combination manifold and nozzle closure system is disclosed. The closure system limits exposure of the nozzle outlets to air between dispenses or between uses. Manifold accommodates a plurality of nozzles. Each nozzle includes a nozzle outlet extending beyond an end of the manifold. An actuator shaft passes through the manifold and is connected to a plate at its distal end with a film disposed between the plate and the nozzle outlets. An actuator moves the actuator shaft from a closed position where the film engages the nozzle outlets and the plate is disposed just below the nozzles to an open position where the film and plate have been pulled upward beyond the nozzle outlets. The plate includes a plurality of openings and the film includes a plurality of valves each opening in the plate is in alignment with a valve and each valve is in alignment with one of the nozzle outlets. By moving the plate and film upward past the nozzle outlets, the valves and the film open and the nozzle outlets extend through the openings in the plate and are therefore free to dispense. To close the system, the actuator moves the shaft, plate and film downward where the valves and the film close and engage the nozzle outlets to keep the nozzle outlets relatively isolated from air between dispenses.