Additive Dispenser with Damping Control for Precise Dosing Rate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dosing systems for adding non-gaseous fluids, such as essential oils, to water streams lack precise control over the volume and rate of dispensing, leading to inconsistent results and inefficient use of additives.
Innovation Solution
A liquid dosing apparatus comprising an adapter, a dosing mechanism with a movable member and a dosing chamber, and a damping control system that adjusts the dispensing rate by controlling the return speed of the movable member, ensuring precise control over the volume and rate of fluid dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the dispensing rate is controlled by the water stream flow rate, then the system is simple to operate, but the dispensing precision and consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A damping member is introduced as an intermediary component between the movable member and the dosing chamber. This damping member controls the return speed of the movable member, thereby regulating the dispensing rate independently of water stream flow rate variations, achieving both ease of operation and precise dispensing control
Solution Approach 2:
The damping member utilizes the inherent rebound motion of the movable member to automatically regulate the dispensing rate. The system self-adjusts by controlling the return speed of the movable member through damping, eliminating the need for external complex control mechanisms while maintaining dispensing precision
2Quantity of substance
If a larger volume of additive is dispensed, then the fragrance intensity is higher, but the container life is shorter
Solution Approach 1:
The damping member allows adjustment of the dispensing rate parameter, enabling users to optimize the balance between fragrance intensity and container life. By controlling the return speed of the movable member, the system can dispense precise volumes at regulated rates, extending container life while maintaining effective fragrance delivery
3Speed
If the movable member returns quickly, then the dispensing speed is faster, but the control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The damping member serves as a mediator that regulates the return speed of the movable member. It provides controlled damping that prevents overly rapid return while maintaining sufficient dispensing speed, thereby achieving both speed and control precision through intermediate velocity regulation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system allows for precise control over the dispensing of non-gaseous fluids, ensuring consistent results, extending the life of additive containers, and enabling easy switching between different additives.
Implementation Method 1
a damping control system arranged to control a dispensing rate of the set volume of the liquid by controlling return speed of the moveable member
Implementation Method 2
The one-way valve is arranged to allow air into the bottle. The one-way valve is arranged such that air can enter the bottle only when the liquid is drawn out of the bottle via the outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid dosing apparatus for dispensing a liquid from a container into a liquid stream of a shower, toilet, or tap includes an adapter, a dosing mechanism, a damping control system, and a dispensing outlet. The adapter is arranged to detachable receive the container. The dosing mechanism includes a dosing chamber and a movable member. The dosing mechanism is arranged to draw a set volume of the liquid into the dosing chamber on activation by moving the moveable member in a first direction. The damping control system is arranged to control a dispensing rate of the set volume of the liquid by controlling return speed of the moveable member. The damping control system is arranged to allow and control adjustment of the dispensing rate. The dispensing outlet is arranged to dispense the liquid into the water stream at the controlled dispensing rate.