Aerosol Manifold Valve Interface Flexing Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional manifold systems for trigger actuated aerosol systems face issues with press-fit assembly, leading to unintended product release during assembly and high force requirements for sealing, resulting in leaks due to insufficient sealing forces applied by users.
Innovation Solution
A manifold design featuring a valve interface with an outward tapered portion, an inward tapered portion, and an outward tapered skirt, which can flex to accept and seal a valve stem, applying a force back on the stem to form a secure seal, reducing leakage and assembly-induced product release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the manifold valve interface is press-fit to the valve stem during assembly, then the manifold is securely attached to the aerosol system, but the valve stem is actuated and product is released into the manifold
Solution Approach 1:
The valve interface is designed with a pre-formed seal configuration that creates a seal before the valve stem is actuated during assembly. The tapered portion and thin portion are pre-positioned to engage the valve stem and prevent product release during the assembly process, eliminating the need for high-force press-fit that would actuate the valve.
2Ease of manufacture
If the manifold valve interface is positioned just above the valve stem during assembly, then assembly is simplified, but high forces are required to initiate press-fit and seal the valve stem
Solution Approach 1:
The valve interface geometry is changed from a traditional press-fit design to a tapered design with a thin portion that flexes. This parameter change in the interface geometry allows the valve stem to be sealed with minimal force, as the tapered shape naturally guides and secures the valve stem without requiring high assembly forces.
3Reliability
If high forces are applied to press-fit the manifold valve interface to the valve stem, then a secure seal is formed, but users cannot apply sufficient force and leaks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The thin portion of the valve interface is designed to be flexible, allowing it to flex and conform to the valve stem during assembly. This flexibility enables the interface to form a reliable seal without requiring high forces from the user, as the flexible material naturally adapts to the valve stem geometry and maintains sealing contact.
4Reliability
If the manifold valve interface is designed with a flexible thin portion, then sealing is improved without requiring high forces, but the structural complexity of the valve interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve interface is segmented into distinct functional portions: an outward tapered portion for guidance and engagement, an inward tapered portion for sealing contact, and a thin flexible portion for conforming to the valve stem. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function efficiently, achieving reliable sealing while keeping the overall design manageable through clear functional division.
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 design enhances the sealing efficiency between the manifold and valve stem, preventing leaks and ensuring proper assembly without requiring high forces, thus improving the reliability and usability of aerosol delivery systems.
Implementation Method 1
the valve interface is configured to flex to accept a valve stem in an opening of the valve interface formed by the circumference of the thin portion
Implementation Method 2
The push-button may be press-fit or slip-fit over a valve stem of an aerosol system such that the valve interface mates with the valve stem through the press-fit or slip-fit configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved manifold for an aerosol system may include a valve interface (120) capable of flexing to fit with a valve stem of an aerosol system and form a seal and methods for making a manifold may include a gate (106) positioned to improve contact between steel defining a fluid flow path in the manifold.