Aerosol Sprayer Trigger Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerosol spray devices with trigger actuation suffer from accidental and inadvertent actuation during shipment and use, leading to unintended product discharge.
Innovation Solution
A novel locking mechanism is introduced in aerosol trigger-type sprayers, featuring interfitting locking formations on the nozzle and trigger, allowing the nozzle to slide between a retracted position for shipping and storage, and an extended position for use, thereby preventing trigger actuation when locked and enabling it when unlocked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a trigger mechanism is used for aerosol sprayers, then ease of operation is improved, but accidental actuation during shipment and use increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is pre-positioned in a retracted locked position before use, with locking formations already engaged. This preliminary action prevents accidental actuation during shipment and storage, while allowing easy activation when needed by simply pulling the nozzle forward to disengage the locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking formations act as an intermediary mechanism between the nozzle and trigger. These interfitting protrusions and recesses create a mechanical barrier that prevents unintended trigger actuation, while allowing intentional actuation when the user deliberately moves the nozzle to disengage the locks.
2Ease of operation
If the nozzle is extended for use, then ease of operation is improved, but risk of accidental discharge increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle transitions from a static extended position to a dynamic state where it can be easily moved between retracted and extended positions. The locking formations engage automatically when retracted and disengage when extended, providing dynamic safety control that adapts to the device's operational state.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking formations are designed to automatically engage when the nozzle is retracted, creating a preliminary counter-action that prevents accidental discharge. This anti-action is built into the mechanical structure itself, requiring deliberate user action to disengage and activate the spray function.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental actuation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the nozzle assembly itself, integrating the locking formations directly into the nozzle structure rather than adding a separate locking system. This combines the safety function with the existing component, minimizing additional complexity while ensuring reliable prevention of accidental actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking formations are designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the nozzle's position, without requiring separate locking or unlocking actions. The mechanism serves itself through the natural movement of the nozzle between retracted and extended positions, eliminating the need for additional controls or complex operation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol sprayer may be connected to an aerosol container to form an aerosol delivery system. The aerosol sprayer includes a base secured to the container, a cap secured to the base, a pivoting trigger and a nozzle which is slidably movable relative to the trigger between an extended operable position and a retracted, locked position. The nozzle and trigger have interfitting locking structures to prevent actuation of the trigger when the nozzle is in the retracted locked position.