Compression spring assembly and methods of using the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
The presence of metal springs in dispensing pumps impedes the recycling process due to the need to separate them from plastic components, necessitating an all-plastic spring system for recyclability.
Innovation Solution
A compression spring assembly featuring a slotted tubular spring element and loading cones made from polymer materials, with specific wall angles and strain reducing ribs, allowing for radial expansion and contraction, and potentially hyperboloid shapes, ensuring efficient energy storage and recyclability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal spring is used in the dispensing pump, then the spring provides reliable elastic energy storage and force, but the pump assembly becomes difficult to recycle due to separation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to polymer, transforming the spring element into a deformable tubular structure that achieves elastic energy storage through radial expansion and contraction rather than traditional metal spring mechanics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining the tubular polymer element with end caps and internal ribs, creating an integrated all-plastic assembly that maintains spring functionality while enabling single-material recycling
2Device complexity
If the loading cone wall angle is less than 11 degrees, then the structure is simpler, but friction lock occurs reducing effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent identifies and applies a critical parameter threshold by specifying that the loading cone wall angle must be no less than 11 degrees, optimizing the balance between structural simplicity and functional effectiveness by preventing friction lock while maintaining ease of manufacture
3Ease of manufacture
If the spring element wall thickness is uniform, then manufacturing is simpler, but strain distribution is uneven reducing life cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the wall thickness of the tubular spring element, making certain sections thinner and others thicker based on their specific functional requirements and strain patterns, thereby optimizing both performance and durability
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 the entire dispensing pump to be made from a single plastic material, facilitating easy recycling and extending the spring's life cycle while maintaining effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
Deformation of the tubular spring walls elastically stores energy which will return the spring to its normal at rest shape when released
Implementation Method 2
When released, the spring element elastically contracts, in turn creating an axial extension force, and returns the cones to their normal at rest positions
Data Source
AI summary
An all plastic compression spring assembly includes a slotted tubular spring element formed from a tensile polymer material and first and second loading cones received at opposing first and second ends of the slotted tubular spring element. The loading cones are axially compressible toward each other within the slotted tubular spring element whereby the slotted tubular spring element radially expands in tension to create an opposing radial contraction force, and in turn, an axial extension spring force. When released, the spring element elastically returns to its normal at rest shape, returning the cones to their normal at rest positions.