Adjustable Spring Force Fluid Dispenser

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid dispensers use a single spring force for all fluids, which may not be suitable for different fluids, and allow the use of incompatible fluid containers, leading to inefficiencies and potential misuse.

Innovation Solution

A spring biased activation unit where the spring force can be adjusted by varying the distance between its ends, using interchangeable spring seat members to change the deflection extent, ensuring appropriate force for different fluids and preventing unauthorized use of incompatible containers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single spring force is used for all fluids, then the device structure is simple, but the dispensing performance is inadequate for different fluids

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different fluidsVSAvoidspring force adjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring seat member is made movable along the longitudinal axis of the spring, allowing the deflection distance and spring force to be dynamically adjusted. This enables the same spring to provide different forces for different fluids by simply repositioning the spring seat member, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the physical parameter of spring deflection distance by allowing the spring seat member to be positioned at different locations along the spring's longitudinal axis. This parameter change enables the spring force to be adjusted for different fluids without changing the spring itself, achieving adaptability while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If any fluid container is permitted, then the dispenser is versatile, but incompatible containers may be used leading to misuse

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of misuseVSAvoidcontainer compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The spring seat member incorporates specific engagement features (such as engagement protrusions and corresponding recesses) that create a localized quality requirement for container compatibility. Only containers with matching features can properly engage the spring seat member, ensuring reliable operation while preventing misuse of incompatible containers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The spring seat member acts as an intermediary component between the spring and the fluid container. It provides a standardized interface that mediates the interaction, ensuring that only compatible containers can be properly installed and used, thus preventing misuse while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the spring deflection distance is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the spring force cannot be optimized for different operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidadjustable spring seat member
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring seat member is designed to be movable along the spring's longitudinal axis, transforming the fixed deflection distance into a dynamic, adjustable parameter. This allows the spring force to be optimized for different operational requirements by simply repositioning the spring seat member, improving ease of operation while adding minimal structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The spring seat member can be pre-positioned at optimal locations for different fluid types and operational conditions. This preliminary action of setting the spring force before use allows for optimized performance without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This solution allows for tailored spring forces for various fluids, enhancing operational efficiency and preventing misuse by ensuring compatible container usage, thus improving the functionality and safety of fluid dispensers.

Implementation Method 1

a spring member disposed between the housing member and the activation member biasing the activation member from the first position toward the second position and resisting movement of the activation member from the second position toward the first position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8245881B2Spring force adjustment system
Publication Date: 2012.08.21 GOTOHTI COM INC
  • US8245881B2 patent drawing
  • US8245881B2 patent drawing
  • US8245881B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fluid dispenser comprising a dispensing mechanism, a housing and a container having an interior. The container is removably coupled to the housing for dispensing fluid from the container by the dispensing mechanism.