Adjustable Outlet Actuator for Aerosol Texture Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aerosol texturing systems for applying texture patterns to surfaces are limited in their ability to replicate the results of commercial texture sprayers, particularly for small jobs and non-professional use, as they often produce only a limited number of texture patterns that are not highly repeatable and can drain the propellant before the texture material is fully dispensed.
Innovation Solution
An aerosol dispensing system with an adjustment mechanism that alters the cross-sectional area of the outlet opening by moving actuator members relative to each other, allowing for varying flow rates and texture patterns, similar to commercial sprayers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed outlet opening is used in aerosol texturing systems, then the device structure is simple, but only a limited number of texture patterns can be produced
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet opening is made adjustable through a dynamic mechanism where a collar can be rotated or moved to change the opening size. This allows the same device to produce multiple texture patterns (fine, medium, coarse) by varying the outlet opening dimensions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different texturing needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of the outlet opening size to produce different texture patterns. By adjusting the opening size (from small to large), the system can generate fine, medium, and coarse textures respectively. This parameter change approach allows one device to replace multiple fixed-outlet devices.
2Productivity
If high propellant pressure is maintained, then texture material can be dispensed effectively, but propellant is depleted before texture material is fully dispensed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the outlet opening size during dispensing operations. For coarse textures, a larger opening is used which allows texture material to be dispensed more efficiently with less propellant consumption. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the ratio of texture material to propellant usage, reducing propellant waste while maintaining effective dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the outlet opening size parameter, the system optimizes the flow characteristics of both texture material and propellant. Larger openings reduce the velocity and pressure requirements, allowing more texture material to be dispensed per unit of propellant consumed, thereby reducing propellant waste while maintaining productivity.
3Reliability
If a single outlet opening size is used, then the device structure is simple, but repeatability of texture patterns is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable outlet mechanism allows operators to select specific opening sizes consistent with standard texture patterns (fine, medium, coarse). This standardization through selective adjustment improves repeatability, as the same opening size can be repeatedly used to produce consistent texture patterns across different applications and operators.
4Manufacturing precision
If commercial texture sprayers are used, then precise control of texture pattern is achieved, but cost and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete, manageable positions (fine, medium, coarse settings). This segmentation simplifies operation by providing clear, predefined options rather than requiring continuous adjustment, making the system easier to operate while maintaining precise control over texture patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses discrete parameter changes (specific outlet opening sizes) to achieve precise texture control. By offering defined adjustment positions rather than continuous variation, the system maintains manufacturing precision comparable to commercial sprayers while significantly improving ease of operation for DIY users.
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
Enables a wider range of texture patterns to be achieved with greater repeatability and efficiency, reducing propellant waste and improving usability for both small and large applications.
Implementation Method 1
The container contains the texture material and propellant under pressure. The valve is mounted to the container selectively to allow the pressurized propellant to force the texture material out of the container.
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the first and second adjustment members is movably supported by the actuator member such that moving the first and second adjustment members relative to each other alters a cross-sectional area of the conduit outlet.
Data Source
AI summary
Stored material is dispensed in a spray by defining a chamber and arranging the stored material and pressurized material within the chamber. A conduit passageway is arranged such that a conduit inlet is arranged within the chamber and a conduit outlet is arranged outside of the chamber. An adjustment system comprising an actuator member and first and second adjustment members is provided. The actuator member is arranged to define at least a portion of the conduit passageway. The first and second adjustment members are supported on the actuator member such that the conduit outlet is defined by a first surface of the first adjustment member and a second surface of the second adjustment member. Moving the first and second adjustment members relative to each other alters a cross-sectional area of the conduit outlet and thereby varies a flow of stored material along the conduit passageway at the conduit outlet.