Fluid supply cup and fluid supply cup assembly method

Abstract

The present invention provides a fluid supply cup and a fluid supply cup assembly method. The fluid supply cup comprises a cup lid, an inner container, and an outer cup; the cup lid matches the outer cup and the inner container; the outer cup is provided with a locking ring; the locking ring is rotatable about the axis of the outer cup; the outer cup and the locking ring are assembled together; when the locking ring is located at a locking position, the locking ring, the cup lid, and the inner container are connected to the outer cup to form an integrated structure; and when the locking ring is located at an assembly position, the cup lid can be detached from an open end of the outer cup. The outer cup and the locking ring are coupled by means of a wedge fit, and are integrally assembled by means of an anti-disengagement function; the locking ring uses a locking structure and a release structure to cooperate with the cup lid, thereby achieving assembly and separation of the cup lid and the locking ring; thus, after disassembly, the cup lid can be detached from the outer cup while ensuring that the locking ring remains on the outer cup. The operation of dismantling the locking ring is omitted, improving replacement efficiency; additionally, the waste resulting from discarding the locking ring is avoided, reducing production costs. The modular integrated design allows for a more efficient disassembly process and reduces waste.

Description

A fluid supply cup and a method for assembling the fluid supply cup. Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of container technology and relates to a fluid reservoir for a spray gun, particularly a fluid supply cup and a method for assembling the fluid supply cup. Background Technology

[0002] Current spray guns mainly use pneumatic methods to atomize the paint before spraying. Therefore, it is necessary to supply paint to the spray gun. The most common method is to connect a paint supply cup to the spray gun. This method can ensure that the supply cup and the spray gun move simultaneously, and the paint is continuously pressed into the spray gun by gravity, and then sprayed out after being atomized by compressed gas.

[0003] A supply cup consists of four parts: a rigid outer cup, a locking ring, an inner liner, and a cup lid. The lid and inner liner must be closed, the inner liner placed inside the rigid outer cup, and finally, the locking ring secures the lid and outer cup together as a single unit. The cup lid has a supply port connecting to the paint storage chamber of the inner liner. The supply port has a threaded structure, which allows for a detachable connection to the spray gun's inlet. Because the paint needs frequent replacement or replenishment, when changing the paint, the inner liner, cup lid, and other parts in contact with the paint must be discarded to prevent mixing of different paints from affecting the spraying quality.

[0004] For example, Chinese Patent Document 201780076581.9 discloses a reservoir system (50) for use with a spray gun (32). The system includes a cup holder (60) and a cap (62). The cap (62) includes a cap body (70) and a retaining ring (68). The cap body (70) provides a nozzle (72) and a platform (250) surrounding the nozzle (72). At least a portion of the platform (250) forms a partially helical shape that rotates about the central axis of the nozzle (72). The retaining ring (68) is rotatably connected to the cap body (70). Additionally, the retaining ring (68) includes a cap connector structure configured to connect the cap (62) to the cup holder (60). In some embodiments, the reservoir system (50) also includes one or more of a connector (54), a plug (600), and a shaker core (700).

[0005] In the above technical solution, several flange retaining features are provided on the cap, and the flange retaining features are arranged on the same circumference. The locking ring is assembled by interference fit through a ring of flange retaining features, that is, the locking ring is pre-assembled on the cap to form an integral structure. During assembly, the liner and the cap are combined into one piece, the liner is placed in the cup seat, the cap is closed, and the retaining ring is threadedly engaged with the cup seat.

[0006] When disassembling the cap, liner, and cup holder, the retaining ring needs to be screwed on to separate them. Since the retaining ring is mounted on the cap, it remains on the cap after disassembly. If the cap, retaining ring, and liner are discarded together, the retaining ring is wasted, increasing costs. If the retaining ring is to be kept for continued use, it needs to be removed from the cap. However, the interference fit makes the retaining ring snap-fit, making it difficult to remove, resulting in time-consuming and laborious processes and reducing the painting experience. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to address the aforementioned problems in existing technologies by proposing a fluid supply cup and a method for assembling the fluid supply cup.

[0008] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solutions:

[0009] A fluid supply cup includes a cup lid having a fluid outlet adapted to connect the cup lid to a spraying device;

[0010] A flanged liner that collapses when fluid contained within it is drawn from a fluid supply cup;

[0011] An outer cup having an open end, wherein the cup lid extends over the open end and the inner liner is received in the outer cup, the cup lid being adapted to the outer cup and the inner liner;

[0012] The outer cup can be connected to the locking ring, and the locking ring can rotate around the axial direction of the outer cup. The outer cup and the locking ring are assembled together. The locking ring is in the locked position, and the locking ring, cup lid, inner liner and outer cup are connected to form an integral unit. The locking ring is in the assembled position, and the cup lid can be detached from the open end of the outer cup.

[0013] Preferably, an assembly block is provided on the locking ring, and a stroke assembly groove is provided at the corresponding position of the outer cup. The assembly block is adapted to the stroke assembly groove. The locking position is arranged in the stroke assembly groove, and the assembly position is arranged in or outside the stroke assembly groove. The locking ring can move between the locking position and the assembly position of the stroke assembly groove.

[0014] Preferably, the stroke assembly groove is located between the inlet / outlet and the locking end, and an anti-detachment component is provided between the stroke assembly groove and the inlet / outlet. The anti-detachment component forms an anti-detachment stop for the assembly block located in the stroke assembly groove. The assembly block cooperates with the locking end to form a locking position, and the assembly block cooperates with the anti-detachment component to form an assembly position.

[0015] Preferably, the assembly block is a spiral wedge element arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring, the stroke assembly groove is a spiral wedge groove arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup, the spiral wedge groove extends to the opening end of the outer cup to form the inlet and outlet, the spiral wedge groove extends towards the bottom of the outer cup to the end groove wall to form the locking end, and the anti-disengagement component is a protruding ridge that separates the spiral wedge groove from the inlet and outlet; the spiral wedge element enters the inlet and outlet, passes through the protruding ridge and is guided into the spiral wedge groove to the end groove wall, forming a wedge-tight fit that moves axially along the outer cup.

[0016] Preferably, the assembly block is a spiral wedge element arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring, and the stroke assembly groove is a locking component arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup. The locking component includes an upper threaded section and a lower threaded section that are respectively separated to form a spiral wedge groove. The upper threaded section extends towards the opening end of the outer cup to the inlet and outlet. A stop is provided at the end of the upper threaded section extending towards the bottom of the outer cup. The stop forms the locking end. The anti-disengagement component is a protruding ridge that separates the spiral wedge groove from the inlet and outlet. The spiral wedge element enters the inlet and outlet, passes through the protruding ridge, and is guided into the spiral wedge groove to the stop, forming a wedge-tight fit that moves along the axial displacement of the outer cup.

[0017] Preferably, the locking ring has a connecting structure and a releasing structure on its rim, the cup lid has an mounting structure, the cup lid fits into the opening end of the outer cup, the locking ring is in a locked position, and is locked to the mounting structure through the connecting structure, and the locking ring is in an assembled position, and is released from the locking state of the mounting structure through the releasing structure.

[0018] Preferably, the connecting structure is at least one pressing edge arranged on the edge of the locking ring, the pressing edge protruding from the inner wall of the locking ring toward the axis to form a pressing length; the releasing structure is a clearance notch on the edge of the locking ring, the clearance notch forming a space consistent with the pressing length; the mounting structure is a protrusion provided on the edge of the cup lid, the protrusion extending away from the axis of the cup lid to form an assembly length; the protrusion is completely placed in the clearance notch to form an in-out fit, and the pressing edge pressing at least a portion of the protrusion to form a locking fit.

[0019] Preferably, the bottom surface of the pressing edge is a plane, the top surface of the protrusion is a plane, and the bottom surface of the pressing edge presses against the top surface of the protrusion to form axial compression.

[0020] Preferably, the bottom surface of the pressing edge is a wedge-shaped surface, and the top surface of the protrusion is a plane. The bottom surface of the pressing edge presses against the top surface of the protrusion to form an axial clamping.

[0021] Preferably, a limiting member is provided on the opening end of the outer cup, at least one end of the limiting member is a limiting end, a limiting area is formed between two adjacent limiting ends, the protrusion is placed in the limiting area, and the limiting end forms a limiting stop on the protrusion; the locking ring is located in the assembly position, the clearance notch cooperates with the limiting area, the locking ring is located in the locking position, and the pressing edge cooperates with the limiting area.

[0022] Preferably, the limiting member has a clearance end, and a clearance space is formed between two adjacent clearance ends, the clearance space coinciding with the inlet and outlet.

[0023] Preferably, the limiting area coincides with the inlet / outlet.

[0024] Preferably, the locking ring has a notch corresponding to the clearance notch, the locking ring is located in the assembly position, and the notch does not extend beyond the opening end.

[0025] A method for assembling a fluid supply cup includes assembling a locking ring and an outer cup together. When the assembly block of the locking ring reaches the assembly position, an inner liner is inserted and fitted with a cup lid at the open end of the outer cup. The locking ring rotates along the assembly direction of the outer cup. When the assembly block reaches the locking position, the locking ring locks the outer cup, the inner liner, and the cup lid. The locking ring also rotates along the disassembly direction of the outer cup. When the assembly block reaches the assembly position, the cup lid or the cup lid and inner liner are removed from the open end of the outer cup.

[0026] Preferably, the assembly block of the locking ring is introduced into the stroke assembly groove of the outer cup, the assembly block is engaged in the assembly position through the anti-disengagement component, and the assembly block is engaged in the locking position at the locking end.

[0027] Compared with the prior art, the fluid supply cup and its assembly method have the following advantages:

[0028] 1. Optimized Assembly Mode: On one hand, the outer cup and locking ring are integrated through a wedge-tight fit and an anti-detachment function. On the other hand, the locking ring uses a locking and releasing structure to assemble and separate the cup lid and locking ring. During disassembly, the cup lid and inner liner can be separated into one group, and the outer cup and locking ring into another. Separating these two groups allows the cup lid to detach from the outer cup while ensuring the locking ring remains on the outer cup. The cup lid and inner liner can then be discarded, and clean cup lids and inner liners can be replaced and reused with the outer cup. This reduces the need to disassemble the locking ring, improving replacement efficiency; it also avoids waste caused by discarding the locking ring, saving production costs. This group-integrated design makes the disassembly process more efficient and reduces waste.

[0029] 2. Enhanced Sealing and Stability: The outer cup utilizes a spiral wedge element that engages with the spiral wedge groove (or spiral wedge slot) of the locking ring, ensuring a stable connection between the locking ring and the outer cup. This spiral wedge engagement allows for gradual tightening along the axial direction, generating a uniform locking force that enhances the sealing and stability of the cup lid, preventing potential leakage during use. Furthermore, by employing multiple symmetrically distributed spiral wedge elements and grooves (or slots), the locking force is ensured to be evenly distributed circumferentially, avoiding problems such as cup lid misalignment and poor sealing caused by localized excessive pressure.

[0030] 3. Simplified assembly and disassembly process: Utilizing a rotating locking ring, the spiral wedge structure, and the stroke assembly groove allow for quick and easy assembly and disassembly. Specifically, rotating the locking ring easily moves the assembly position to the locking position, and vice versa, making disassembly simple and intuitive.

[0031] Specifically, by setting release structures (such as clearance notches and recesses) and connection structures (such as the cooperation of pressing edges and protrusions), the cup lid can be firmly connected to the outer cup and inner liner after the locking ring is wedge-tightened and rotated, and the cup lid can be easily and quickly detached from the outer cup and locking ring after the locking ring is loosened and rotated, thus facilitating disassembly and replacement.

[0032] 4. Prevention of Accidental Separation: The anti-detachment component in this design prevents the locking ring from detaching from the outer cup due to improper operation, ensuring the safety of the fluid supply cup. During disassembly, the damping and stopping effect between the helical wedge element and the anti-detachment component effectively prevents the locking ring from falling off due to incorrect disassembly operations. This design is particularly suitable for environments requiring high stability and safety, avoiding component loosening or detachment caused by improper operation, thereby improving safety during use.

[0033] 5. Anti-pollution function: The locking ring is designed with a notch that matches the limiting area, forming a paint scraping area when the cup lid is open. After stirring the paint with the paint mixing stick, the paint mixing stick is tilted in the paint scraping area to scrape the paint. The reasonable tilt angle facilitates the paint scraping operation and effectively recovers the paint carried on the paint mixing stick, preventing paint from spilling onto the outer cup or other surfaces. This design effectively reduces paint waste and external pollution.

[0034] 6. Simplified production and assembly process: The fluid supply cup is designed with the assembly and disassembly of components in mind during production. The easily assembled and disassembled structure reduces the complexity of the production process and improves production efficiency. In particular, the use of injection molding for the spiral wedge element and locking structure reduces manufacturing costs and process difficulty, while also improving the tight fit between components and reducing assembly errors.

[0035] 7. Multiple Structural Optimizations for Flexible Applications: The design offers various optimization options (such as the fit between the pressure plate and the convex tab, the layout of the spiral wedge element, and the setting of the limiting components) to meet different application scenarios and requirements. This flexibility allows the fluid supply cup to be widely used in different types of spraying equipment and liquid containers, satisfying diverse market demands.

[0036] 8. Weight Reduction and Enhanced Grip: The evenly distributed weight-reduction notches on the locking ring effectively reduce the overall weight without compromising its strength, thus optimizing the product's portability. The rough features of the locking ring's outer wall (such as a wavy structure or rough texture) increase friction, improving the user's grip when rotating the locking ring and ensuring operational stability and comfort.

[0037] 9. Enhanced Aesthetics: In addition to functionality, the design also considers aesthetic optimization. The arrangement of the limiting components, the weight-reducing notches, and the layout of the spiral wedge elements improve the appearance of the fluid supply cup, reduce external interference, and enhance the overall elegance of the design.

[0038] In summary, this fluid supply cup, through its advanced spiral wedge-shaped mating structure, innovative locking and anti-detachment design, optimized sealing method, and convenient disassembly mechanism, significantly improves safety, ease of operation, environmental friendliness, and assembly / disassembly efficiency while ensuring fluid supply functionality. Its structural design caters to a variety of needs, giving it broad application potential and making it a highly efficient, reliable, environmentally friendly, and convenient fluid supply system. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 is an exploded three-dimensional structural diagram of this fluid supply cup.

[0040] Figure 2 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the locking assembly of this fluid supply cup.

[0041] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the first scheme of the locking ring in this fluid supply cup.

[0042] Figure 4 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the second option of the locking ring in this fluid supply cup.

[0043] Figure 5 is a front view of the internal fit structure of the fluid supply cup when the locking ring is in or out.

[0044] Figure 6 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the internal fit of the fluid supply cup when the locking ring is in or out of position.

[0045] Figure 7 is a front view of the internal fit of the fluid supply cup in the assembly position.

[0046] Figure 8 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the internal fit of the fluid supply cup in the assembly position.

[0047] Figure 9 is a front view of the internal fit structure of the fluid supply cup in the locked position.

[0048] Figure 10 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the internal fit of the fluid supply cup in the locked position.

[0049] Figure 11 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the fluid supply cup in the assembly position.

[0050] Figure 12 is an exploded three-dimensional structural diagram of the double-scheme limiting component of this fluid supply cup.

[0051] Figure 13 is an exploded three-dimensional structural diagram of the unlimited position component scheme of this fluid supply cup.

[0052] Figure 14 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the scraping feature of this fluid supply cup.

[0053] In the diagram, 1 is the cup lid; 11 is the fluid outlet; 12 is the convex piece; 2 is the inner liner; 21 is the flange; 3 is the outer cup; 31 is the inlet / outlet; 32 is the spiral wedge groove; 33 is the end groove wall; 34 is the convex ridge; 35 is the limiting element; 36 is the limiting area; 37 is the clearance space; 4 is the locking ring; 41 is the spiral wedge element; 42 is the pressing edge; 43 is the clearance notch; 44 is the notch; and 45 is the weight reduction notch. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The following are specific embodiments of the present invention, which are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0055] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, this fluid supply cup includes a cup lid 1 with a fluid outlet 11 adapted to connect the cup lid 1 to a spraying device.

[0056] The liner 2, which has a flange 21, collapses when fluid contained within it is drawn from a fluid supply cup.

[0057] An outer cup 3 has an open end, wherein a lid 1 extends over the open end and an inner liner 2 is received in the outer cup 3, the lid 1 being adapted to the outer cup 3 and the inner liner 2.

[0058] The outer cup 3 can be connected to the locking ring 4, and the locking ring 4 can rotate around the axial direction of the outer cup 3. The outer cup 3 and the locking ring 4 are assembled together. The locking ring 4 is in the locked position. The locking ring 4, the cup cover 1, the inner liner 2 and the outer cup 3 are connected to form an integral unit. The locking ring 4 is in the assembled position. The cup cover 1 can be detached from the open end of the outer cup 3.

[0059] Preferably, an assembly block is provided on the locking ring 4, and a stroke assembly groove is provided at the corresponding position of the outer cup 3. The assembly block is adapted to the stroke assembly groove. The locking position is arranged in the stroke assembly groove, and the assembly position is arranged in or outside the stroke assembly groove. The locking ring 4 can move between the locking position and the assembly position of the stroke assembly groove.

[0060] The positions of the assembly block and the stroke assembly groove can be interchanged. That is, the assembly block can be set on the outer cup and the stroke assembly groove can be set on the locking ring, which can also achieve the mating connection between the assembly block and the stroke assembly groove.

[0061] Preferably, the stroke assembly groove is located between the inlet / outlet 31 and the locking end. An anti-detachment component is provided between the stroke assembly groove and the inlet / outlet 31. The anti-detachment component forms an anti-detachment stop for the assembly block located in the stroke assembly groove. The assembly block cooperates with the locking end to form a locking position. The assembly block cooperates with the anti-detachment component to form an assembly position.

[0062] The assembly block of the locking ring 4 is inserted into the inlet / outlet 31. Under the damping force of the anti-disengagement component, it enters the travel assembly groove and moves along the travel groove to the locking end. At this point, the locking ring 4 is in the locked position. The assembly block of the locking ring 4 is moved along the travel groove towards the inlet / outlet 31 until it abuts against the anti-disengagement component. The anti-disengagement component's stop restricts the assembly block from easily disengaging from the travel assembly groove, and the locking ring 4 is in the assembled position. Applying a moderate external force allows the assembly block to overcome the damping force of the anti-disengagement component and move to the inlet / outlet 31, thus separating the locking ring 4 from the outer cup 3.

[0063] The assembly block and the stroke assembly slot can be matched in the following two ways:

[0064] As shown in Figures 1 to 11, in the first type, the assembly block is a spiral wedge element 41 arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring 4, and the stroke assembly groove is a spiral wedge groove 32 arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup 3. The spiral wedge groove 32 extends to the opening end of the outer cup 3 to form an inlet and outlet 31. The spiral wedge groove 32 extends towards the bottom of the outer cup 3 to the end groove wall 33 to form a locking end. The anti-disengagement component is a protruding rib 34 that separates the spiral wedge groove 32 from the inlet and outlet 31. The spiral wedge element 41 enters the inlet and outlet 31, passes through the protruding rib 34, and is guided into the spiral wedge groove 32 to the end groove wall 33 to form a wedge-tight fit that moves along the axial displacement of the outer cup 3.

[0065] The number of spiral wedge elements 41 is at least one, and the number of corresponding spiral wedge grooves 32 is at least one, that is, the two form a one-to-one correspondence. When the number of spiral wedge elements 41 / spiral wedge grooves 32 is designed to be only one, the circumferential locking points of the locking ring 4 and the outer cup 3 are asymmetrically arranged, resulting in uneven locking force, which can easily cause problems such as cup lid 1 tilting and poor sealing. Therefore, it is the best solution to arrange at least two sets of spiral wedge elements 41 and spiral wedge grooves 32 in a centrally symmetrical manner to provide circumferentially distributed locking points and form a balanced locking force.

[0066] When the spiral wedge element 41 is placed in the area of ​​the spiral wedge groove 32, the spiral wedge element 41 is blocked from entering the inlet / outlet 31 by the protrusion 34, so that the locking ring 4 is set on the outer cup 3 to form an integrated assembly. When the spiral wedge element 41 moves to the end groove wall 33, it is in the locking position. When the spiral wedge element 41 moves to the protrusion 34, it is in the assembly position. In the assembly position, the outer cup 3 is separated from the cup lid 1 and the inner liner 2, so that the outer cup 3 and the locking ring 4 are formed as a whole, and the cup lid 1 and the inner liner 2 are formed as a whole. This avoids the step of separately disassembling the locking ring 4 when the locking ring 4 is stuck on the cup lid 1, or the waste caused by discarding the locking ring 4, the cup lid 1 and the inner liner 2 together.

[0067] The assembly block can also use other features such as threaded sections, flat bars, and raised bars to replace the spiral wedge element 41. The spiral wedge element 41 and the threaded sections have an inclination angle relative to the plane of the cup lid 1, while the flat bars and raised bars are parallel to the plane of the cup lid 1. The spiral wedge groove 32 has an inclination angle, which forms a height difference along the axis of the outer cup 3, thereby providing a clamping operation for the locking ring 4 to move along the axis.

[0068] The second type is an assembly block consisting of a spiral wedge element 41 arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring 4, and a stroke assembly groove consisting of a locking component arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup 3. The locking component includes an upper thread section and a lower thread section that are respectively arranged. The upper thread section and the lower thread section are separated to form a spiral wedge groove. The upper thread section extends to the opening end of the outer cup 3 to the inlet / outlet 31. A stop is provided at the end of the upper thread section extending to the bottom of the outer cup 3. The stop forms a locking end. The anti-disengagement component is a protrusion 34 that separates the spiral wedge groove from the inlet / outlet 31. The spiral wedge element 41 enters the inlet / outlet 31, passes through the protrusion 34, and is guided into the spiral wedge groove to the stop, forming a wedge-tight fit that moves along the axial displacement of the outer cup 3.

[0069] To ensure that the locking ring 4 evenly presses the cup lid 1 in conjunction with the outer cup 3, at least two sets of spiral wedge elements 41 are provided to cooperate with the locking assembly, and the two sets of spiral wedge elements 41 and the locking assembly are arranged in a centrally symmetrical manner around the axis.

[0070] The upper thread segment is a continuous, complete thread segment that mates with the helical wedge element 41 to provide a continuous locking force. The lower thread segment can be a continuous, complete thread segment or multiple thread segments arranged along the same thread line, with gaps between them. These gaps do not affect the guiding and constraining effect of the lower thread segment on the bottom surface of the helical wedge element 41; that is, the gap location is still part of the stroke assembly groove. The lower thread segment can also be shorter than the upper thread segment, with gaps forming at both ends corresponding to the upper thread segment. However, these gaps do not affect the guiding and constraining effect of the lower thread segment on the bottom surface of the helical wedge element 41; the gap location is still part of the stroke assembly groove.

[0071] When the spiral wedge element 41 is introduced into the spiral wedge groove, the top surface of the spiral wedge element 41 is guided and constrained by the upper thread section, and the bottom surface of the spiral wedge element 41 is guided and constrained by the lower thread section. This guides the spiral wedge element 41 to rotate only along the spiral wedge groove, forming an axial displacement relative to the outer cup 3. The stop is a protrusion that bends from the end of the upper thread section towards the bottom of the outer cup 3. The end of the spiral wedge element 41 stops rotating after abutting against the protrusion. When the spiral wedge element 41 is placed in the area of ​​the spiral wedge groove, the protrusion 34 blocks the spiral wedge element 41 from entering the inlet / outlet 31. When the spiral wedge element 41 moves to the stop, it is in the locked position. When the spiral wedge element 41 moves to the protrusion 34, it is in the assembly position. In the assembly position, the locking ring 4 is set on the outer cup 3 to form an integrated assembly.

[0072] The spiral wedge element 41 is a thread protruding from the inner wall of the locking ring 4. The end of the thread entering the stroke assembly groove is the starting end, and the end of the thread moving out of the stroke assembly groove is the ending end. The thread gradually thickens from the starting end to the ending end, and both the starting end and the ending end have rounded chamfers. The interference fit between the starting end and the protruding ridge 34 is small, while the interference fit between the ending end and the protruding ridge 34 is large. This makes it easier for the starting end to pass through the protruding ridge 34, while it is relatively difficult for the ending end to pass through the protruding ridge 34, thus further improving the anti-loosening effect.

[0073] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, preferably, the locking ring 4 has a connecting structure and a release structure on its rim, and the cup lid 1 has an installation structure. The cup lid 1 fits into the opening end of the outer cup 3, as shown in Figures 9, 10, and 2. When the locking ring 4 is in the locked position, it forms a locked state with the installation structure through the connecting structure, as shown in Figures 7, 8, and 11. When the locking ring 4 is in the assembled position, the locking state of the installation structure is released through the release structure. The connecting structure and the release structure are arranged axially around the locking ring 4. When the locking ring 4 rotates by an angle, the connecting structure and the installation structure are combined to lock and assemble the cup lid 1. When the locking ring 4 continues to rotate by an angle, the release structure aligns with the installation structure, thereby separating the cup lid 1 and the inner liner 2 from the locking ring 4 and the outer cup 3.

[0074] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, preferably, the connecting structure is at least one pressing edge 42 arranged on the edge of the locking ring 4, the pressing edge 42 protruding from the inner wall of the locking ring 4 toward the axis to form a pressing length; the release structure is a relief notch 43 on the edge of the locking ring 4, the relief notch 43 forming a space consistent with the pressing length; as shown in Figures 1, 11 and 2, the mounting structure is a protrusion 12 provided on the edge of the cup lid 1, the protrusion 12 extending away from the axis of the cup lid 1 to form an assembly length; the protrusion 12 is completely placed in the relief notch 43 to form an in-out fit, and the pressing edge 42 at least presses the part of the protrusion 12 to form a locking fit.

[0075] The pressure edge 42 and the locking ring 4 are integrally formed by injection molding. Specifically, the pressure edge 42 is formed by bending the edge of the locking ring 4 inward to form an arc strip. The clearance notch 43 is the gap between the pressure edges 42. When the pressure edges 42 are in one segment, the clearance notch 43 is the remaining edge part of the locking ring 4; when the pressure edges 42 are in at least two segments, the clearance notch 43 is the edge part between two adjacent pressure edges 42.

[0076] When the number of pressing edges 42 is only one segment, it can only press the protrusion 12 on one side of the cup lid 1, resulting in an asymmetrical layout of the circumferential locking points of the locking ring 4 and the cup lid 1. This leads to uneven locking force and can easily cause problems such as cup lid 1 tilting and poor sealing. Therefore, the optimal solution is to set at least two segments of pressing edges 42 in a centrally symmetrical manner to cooperate with the protrusion 12, providing evenly distributed locking points in the circumference and forming a balanced locking force.

[0077] The main body diameter of the cup lid 1 is smaller than the inner circumference diameter of the pressure edge 42, and the main body diameter of the cup lid 1 is larger than the inner diameter of the opening end of the outer cup 3. This allows the cup lid 1 to overlap the opening end of the outer cup 3 and be located within the space enclosed by the pressure edge 42. The outer diameter of the protrusions 12 is smaller than the inner wall diameter of the locking ring 4, and the outer diameter of the protrusions 12 is larger than the inner circumference diameter of the pressure edge 42. This allows the protrusions 12 to be located within the locking ring 4, and the pressure ring exerts a pressing force on the protrusions 12 along the axial direction.

[0078] As shown in Figure 13, in this design scheme, the opening end of the outer cup 3 can adopt a circumferential plane design, that is, there is no structure on the opening end that limits the protrusion 12 of the cup lid 1, so that the cup lid 1 can be closed at any angle at the opening end. The screw-in fitting angle of the assembly block of the locking ring 4 and the stroke assembly groove of the outer cup 3 is less constrained. Even if the locking ring 4 slightly exceeds the assembly position, the protrusion 12 of the cup lid 1 can still be attached to the opening end of the outer cup 3. However, when the locking ring 4 is too close to the locking position, the locking stroke is too small and there is no stop limit, which causes the protrusion 12 to move and cannot be pressed and locked.

[0079] The following are some possible ways to engage the pressure edge 42 and the protrusion 12:

[0080] In the first configuration, the bottom surface of the pressing edge 42 is flat, and the top surface of the protrusion 12 is flat. The bottom surface of the pressing edge 42 presses against the top surface of the protrusion 12 to form an axial clamping effect. By using a plane-to-plane contact method to form a pressing surface, the force-bearing area is increased, the friction is increased, and the stability and sealing effect of the locking are improved.

[0081] The second method involves a wedge-shaped bottom surface of the pressure edge 42 and a flat top surface of the protrusion 12. The bottom surface of the pressure edge 42 presses against the top surface of the protrusion 12 to form an axial clamping force. The wedge-shaped surface and the flat surface form a clamping point, and the wedge-shaped surface generates a gradually increasing clamping force on the flat surface to achieve a locking effect. Alternatively, the bottom surface of the pressure edge 42 can be designed as a flat surface, and the top surface of the protrusion 12 as a wedge-shaped surface; the locking principle remains the same. However, the contact method between the two is point contact, which reduces the force-bearing area and thus lowers the stability of the locking mechanism.

[0082] As shown in Figures 1 and 12, preferably, a limiting member 35 is provided on the open end of the outer cup 3, at least one end of the limiting member 35 is a limiting end, and a limiting area 36 is formed between two adjacent limiting ends. The protrusion 12 is placed in the limiting area 36, ​​and the limiting end forms a limiting stop for the protrusion 12. The locking ring 4 is located in the assembly position, the clearance notch 43 cooperates with the limiting area 36, ​​the locking ring 4 is located in the locking position, and the pressing edge 42 cooperates with the limiting area 36.

[0083] The limiting member 35 is a raised arc-shaped segment on the open end, and the limiting area 36 is the area of ​​the open end exposed by the intermittent opening of the limiting member 35. The number of limiting areas 36 is the same as the number of protrusions 12, clearance notches 43, and pressing edges 42. The length of the limiting area 36 is the rotation range of the protrusion 12. When the locking ring 4 rotates until the clearance notches 43 coincide with the limiting area 36, ​​the protrusion 12 is placed in the limiting area 36. The locking ring 4 continues to rotate so that the pressing edge 42 gradually coincides with the limiting area 36. The limiting end prevents the protrusion 12 from leaving the limiting area 36, ​​and the pressing edge 42 enters the limiting area 36 while pressing the protrusion 12.

[0084] The arrangement of the limiting components 35 adopts the following two methods:

[0085] As shown in Figure 12, in the first design, the limiting member 35 has a clearance end, and a clearance space 37 is formed between two adjacent clearance ends. The clearance space 37 coincides with the inlet / outlet 31. The clearance space 37 is the open end area exposed intermittently by the limiting member 35, and the number of clearance spaces 37 is the same as the number of inlets / outlets 31. The clearance space 37 and the limiting area 36 are open end areas at different positions. Because the outer diameter of the limiting member 35 exceeds the size of the inlet / outlet 31, in order to avoid the limiting member 35 interfering with the spiral wedge element 41 in cooperating with the inlet / outlet 31, the length of the limiting member 35 is shortened and the number is doubled, forming multiple gaps to form the clearance space 37 and the limiting area 36 respectively. The spiral wedge element 41 cooperates with the inlet / outlet 31 through the clearance space 37. In this design scheme, the number of limiting members 35 is twice that of the pressing edge 42, that is, two limiting members 35 correspond to one pressing edge 42 to form an assembly position.

[0086] As shown in Figure 1, in the second design, the limiting area 36 coincides with the inlet / outlet 31. By aligning the limiting area 36 with the inlet / outlet 31, the limiting area 36 can both define the rotation range of the convex piece 12 and enable the spiral wedge element 41 to engage with the inlet / outlet 31. By appropriately increasing the length of the limiting member 35, the gap between adjacent limiting members 35 becomes the limiting interval. In this design, the number of limiting members 35 and pressure edges 42 are equal; that is, one limiting member 35 corresponds to one pressure edge 42 to form an assembly position. The relatively reduced number of limiting members 35 also improves the aesthetics of the outer cup 3.

[0087] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 14, preferably, the locking ring 4 has a notch 44 corresponding to the clearance notch 43. When the locking ring 4 is in the assembly position, the notch 44 does not extend beyond the open end. The locking ring 4 has a ring wall with rims on both sides. A pressing edge 42 is provided on one of the rims. The rim area corresponding to the clearance notch 43 is recessed into the ring wall to form the notch 44, thereby reducing the height of the ring wall at this position. When the locking ring 4 is in the assembly position, the protrusion 12 is released through the clearance notch 43, the cup lid 1 is removed, and the inner liner 2 is accommodated in the outer cup 3. A paint mixing rod is inserted into the inner liner 2 to stir the paint. Because the position of the notch 44 is lower than the pressing edge 42 and flush with the open end, after stirring, the outer end of the paint mixing rod can extend from the area of ​​the notch 44 to form a large tilt angle, which facilitates the paint mixing rod to scrape paint from the edge of the inner liner 2, realizing the paint recycling function and preventing paint from spilling to the outside and causing contamination to the outer cup 3, etc.

[0088] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, preferably, the locking ring 4 has several weight-reducing notches 45 evenly distributed on it; the outer wall of the locking ring 4 has rough features. The weight-reducing notches 45 are provided on the other side of the ring wall. These notches 45 do not affect the overall strength of the locking ring 4, and save material while reducing weight. The rough features can be a wave structure, rough texture, or other similar uneven structure, thereby increasing friction to facilitate easy locking or disassembly by hand-rotating the locking ring 4.

[0089] A method for assembling a fluid supply cup: First, a locking ring 4 and an outer cup 3 are assembled together. When the assembly block of the locking ring 4 reaches the assembly position, an inner liner 2 is inserted and fitted with a cup lid 1 at the open end of the outer cup 3. The locking ring 4 rotates along the assembly direction of the outer cup 3. When the assembly block reaches the locking position, the locking ring 4 locks the outer cup 3, the inner liner 2, and the cup lid 1. The locking ring 4 rotates along the disassembly direction of the outer cup 3. When the assembly block reaches the assembly position, the cup lid 1 or the cup lid 1 and the inner liner 2 are removed from the open end of the outer cup 3.

[0090] Preferably, the assembly block of the locking ring 4 is introduced into the stroke assembly groove of the outer cup 3, the assembly block is fitted with the anti-disengagement component at the assembly position, and the assembly block reaches the locking end to fit into the locking position.

[0091] The assembly method of the fluid supply cup specifically includes the following steps:

[0092] 1. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, place the inner liner 2 in the outer cup 3, then face the locking ring 4 with the weight reduction notch 45 towards the outer cup 3, and at the same time fasten the spiral wedge element 41 into the inlet and outlet 31 of the outer wall of the outer cup 3.

[0093] 2. As shown in Figures 7, 8 and 11, rotate the locking ring 4 clockwise to apply a twisting force to overcome the interference between the spiral wedge element 41 and the protrusion 34, so that the spiral wedge element 41 enters the stroke assembly groove. When the end of the spiral wedge element 41 contacts the protrusion 34, the locking ring 4 is in the assembly position, that is, the clearance notch 43 and the recess 44 of the locking ring 4 coincide with the limiting area 36 of the outer cup 3. Cover the opening end of the cup lid 1 and place the protrusion 12 in the limiting area 36. At the same time, the connecting port of the cup lid 1 extends into the inner liner 2 to form a seal.

[0094] 3. As shown in Figures 9, 10 and 2, continue to rotate the locking ring 4 clockwise. The spiral wedge element 41 is screwed in along the spiral trajectory of the stroke assembly groove, so that the pressing edge 42 gradually rotates into the limiting area 36 and overlaps with the protrusion 12. At the same time, the locking ring 4 is driven to descend axially due to the spiral trajectory. When the spiral wedge element 41 reaches the locking end, the pressing edge 42 descends synchronously to the position of pressing the protrusion 12, realizing the integral connection of the outer cup 3, the inner liner 2 and the cup lid 1.

[0095] 4. As shown in Figures 7, 8 and 11, rotate the locking ring 4 counterclockwise so that the spiral wedge element 41 rotates out along the spiral trajectory of the stroke assembly groove. The pressing edge 42 gradually rises and rotates out of the limiting area 36 at the same time. The gap formed by the rising pressing edge 42 releases the protrusion 12 until the spiral wedge element 41 reaches the protrusion 34. The pressing edge 42 completely exits the limiting area 36, ​​allowing the notch 43 and the recess 44 to re-align with the limiting area 36, ​​completely exposing the protrusion 12 of the cup lid 1. The cup lid 1 can then be removed from the open end of the outer cup 3.

[0096] 5. As shown in Figure 14, after the cup lid 1 is removed, the locking ring 4 remains mounted on the outer cup 3 because the protruding rib 34 prevents the spiral wedge element 41 from detaching. As shown in Figure 1, by further applying a counterclockwise twisting force, the spiral wedge element 41 overcomes the interference with the protruding rib 34 and enters the inlet / outlet 31. The locking ring 4 can then be pulled out axially to separate it from the outer cup 3.

[0097] The specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make various modifications or additions to the described specific embodiments or substitute them in a similar manner, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding its defined scope. Although the invention has been detailed and described in the accompanying drawings and foregoing description, such descriptions are considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. It should be understood that changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the following claims. Specifically, the invention covers additional embodiments having any combination of features from the different embodiments described above. With regard to the use of the expressions “general” or “substantially,” this patent application should be understood to disclose that the disclosure equally fully satisfies these features and values, i.e., without any of the foregoing characterizations as “general” or “substantially.”

[0098] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

Claims

A fluid supply cup includes a cup lid having a fluid outlet adapted to connect the cup lid to a spraying device; A flanged liner that collapses when fluid contained within it is drawn from a fluid supply cup; An outer cup having an open end, wherein a lid extends over the open end and an inner liner is received in the outer cup, the lid being adapted to the outer cup and the inner liner; Its features are: The outer cup can be connected to the locking ring, and the locking ring can rotate around the axial direction of the outer cup. The outer cup and the locking ring are assembled together. The locking ring is in the locked position, and the locking ring, cup lid, inner liner and outer cup are connected to form an integral unit. The locking ring is in the assembled position, and the cup lid can be detached from the open end of the outer cup. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 1, characterized in that, An assembly block is provided on the locking ring, and a stroke assembly groove is provided at the corresponding position of the outer cup. The assembly block is adapted to the stroke assembly groove. The locking position is arranged in the stroke assembly groove, and the assembly position is arranged in or outside the stroke assembly groove. The locking ring can move between the locking position and the assembly position of the stroke assembly groove. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The stroke assembly groove is located between the inlet / outlet and the locking end. An anti-detachment component is provided between the stroke assembly groove and the inlet / outlet. The anti-detachment component forms an anti-detachment stop for the assembly block located in the stroke assembly groove. The assembly block cooperates with the locking end to form a locking position. The assembly block cooperates with the anti-detachment component to form an assembly position. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 3 is characterized in that, The assembly block is a spiral wedge element arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring, the stroke assembly groove is a spiral wedge groove arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup, the spiral wedge groove extends to the opening end of the outer cup to form the inlet and outlet, the spiral wedge groove extends towards the bottom of the outer cup to the end groove wall to form the locking end, and the anti-disengagement component is a protruding ridge that separates the spiral wedge groove from the inlet and outlet; the spiral wedge element enters the inlet and outlet, passes through the protruding ridge and is guided into the spiral wedge groove to the end groove wall to form a wedge-tight fit that moves axially along the outer cup. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 3 is characterized in that, The assembly block is a spiral wedge element arranged on the inner wall of the locking ring, and the stroke assembly groove is a locking component arranged on the outer wall of the outer cup. The locking component includes an upper thread section and a lower thread section that are respectively arranged to form a spiral wedge groove. The upper thread section extends to the opening end of the outer cup to the inlet and outlet. A stop is provided at the end of the upper thread section extending to the bottom of the outer cup. The stop forms the locking end. The anti-disengagement component is a protrusion that separates the spiral wedge groove from the inlet and outlet. The spiral wedge element enters the inlet and outlet, passes through the protrusion, and is guided into the spiral wedge groove to the stop, forming a wedge-tight fit that moves along the axial displacement of the outer cup. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The locking ring has a connecting structure and a releasing structure on its rim, and the cup lid has an installation structure. The cup lid fits into the opening end of the outer cup. The locking ring is in the locked position and is locked to the installation structure through the connecting structure. The locking ring is in the assembled position and is released from the locking state of the installation structure through the releasing structure. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The connecting structure is at least one pressing edge arranged on the edge of the locking ring, the pressing edge protruding from the inner wall of the locking ring toward the axis to form a pressing length; the releasing structure is a clearance notch on the edge of the locking ring, the clearance notch forming a space consistent with the pressing length; the mounting structure is a protrusion provided on the edge of the cup lid, the protrusion extending away from the axis of the cup lid to form an assembly length; the protrusion is completely placed in the clearance notch to form an in-out fit, and the pressing edge pressing at least a portion of the protrusion to form a locking fit. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the pressing edge is a plane, and the top surface of the protrusion is a plane. The bottom surface of the pressing edge presses against the top surface of the protrusion to form an axial clamping. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the pressing edge is a wedge-shaped surface, and the top surface of the protrusion is a plane. The bottom surface of the pressing edge presses against the top surface of the protrusion to form an axial clamping. The fluid supply cup as described in claim 7, characterized in that, A limiting member is provided on the opening end of the outer cup, at least one end of the limiting member is a limiting end, a limiting area is formed between two adjacent limiting ends, the protrusion is placed in the limiting area, and the limiting end forms a limiting stop on the protrusion; the locking ring is located in the assembly position, the clearance notch cooperates with the limiting area, the locking ring is located in the locking position, and the pressing edge cooperates with the limiting area. The fluid supply cup as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The limiting member has a clearance end, and a clearance space is formed between two adjacent clearance ends. The clearance space coincides with the inlet and outlet. The fluid supply cup as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The limiting area coincides with the inlet and outlet. The fluid supply cup as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The locking ring has a notch corresponding to the clearance notch, and the locking ring is located in the assembly position, with the notch not exceeding the open end. A method for assembling a fluid supply cup, characterized in that, The locking ring and the outer cup are assembled together first. When the assembly block of the locking ring reaches the assembly position, the inner liner and the cup lid are inserted and fitted into the open end of the outer cup. The locking ring rotates along the assembly direction of the outer cup. When the assembly block reaches the locking position, the locking ring locks the outer cup, the inner liner and the cup lid. The locking ring rotates along the disassembly direction of the outer cup. When the assembly block reaches the assembly position, the cup lid or the cup lid and the inner liner are removed from the open end of the outer cup. The assembly method of the fluid supply cup as described in claim 14 is characterized in that, The assembly block of the locking ring is guided into the stroke assembly groove of the outer cup, the assembly block is engaged in the assembly position through the anti-disengagement component, and the assembly block reaches the locking end to engage in the locking position.

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