Applicator Head Sliding Sleeve Closure Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator heads for fluid materials, such as creams, are not optimized for easy handling and application to the user's skin, often resulting in inefficient dispensing and potential spraying of the fluid.
Innovation Solution
A closure system with a tubular neck part and a reciprocally movable outlet part, featuring a tight sliding fit and co-operating end-stop and guide mechanisms, allows for controlled flow and application, minimizing fluid trapping and spraying, with an external applicator surface designed for user comfort and fluid distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional closure system is used, then the structure is simple, but the fluid material may spray or be trapped inefficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet part is made movable relative to the neck part, allowing dynamic adjustment between closed and open positions. This dynamic mechanism enables controlled fluid flow while preventing spraying and trapping, resolving the contradiction between reliable flow control and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet part is nested within the neck part, with the outlet part sliding inside the tubular neck structure. This nested configuration allows the closure system to maintain a compact form while achieving reliable fluid flow control through the sliding mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If the outlet part is movable to control flow, then fluid flow control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding mechanism allows the outlet part to move easily between closed and open positions, providing intuitive handling and control. The dynamic design enables users to manipulate the applicator head with simple sliding motions, improving ease of operation despite the added structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system is divided into distinct segments: the neck part and the outlet part. This segmentation allows independent movement of the outlet part while maintaining a cohesive overall structure, making the device easier to operate while managing complexity through modular design.
3Loss of substance
If a tight sliding fit is used between outlet part and neck part, then fluid trapping is minimized, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet part is nested within the neck part with a tight sliding fit configuration. This nested arrangement naturally minimizes gaps and fluid trapping spaces while the cylindrical geometry provides stable guidance, reducing the impact of manufacturing tolerances on fluid leakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing interface between the outlet part and neck part utilizes the flexibility of the materials to accommodate minor manufacturing variations. The tight sliding fit relies on material compliance to maintain effective sealing, reducing the stringency of precision requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
An applicator head for a fluid material comprising a neck part having a flow conduit for the flow of the fluid material and an outlet part comprising a slideable sleeve externally mounted on the neck part, the neck part incorporating a closure part engages with the outlet opening to close it, and the outlet part has an external applicator surface adapted to apply the fluid material to a user's skin and the outlet opening is an opening through the applicator surface.