Applicator Valve Stem Air Exchange Hole Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Applicators with valve mechanisms that increase internal pressure to discharge ink face issues with air exchange after pressure release, leading to negative pressure states and deformation of the ink tank, preventing it from returning to its original shape.
Innovation Solution
A valve mechanism with a valve stem and holder allowing liquid flow, featuring an air exchange hole that can be opened and closed by an opening/closing member based on pressure differences between the ink tank and applying part, ensuring air exchange when the ink tank pressure becomes negative.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a valve mechanism that opens by increasing internal pressure is used to discharge ink, then the applicator can be applied to flexible applying parts without upsizing the ink tank, but the ink tank remains deformed and cannot be restored to its original shape after pressure release
Solution Approach 1:
The air exchange function is segmented from the liquid discharge function by providing a separate air exchange hole with an opening/closing member. This allows independent control of air exchange and liquid discharge processes, enabling the ink tank to restore its shape through air exchange after liquid discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The air exchange hole is provided in advance in the valve stem, and the opening/closing member is pre-configured to respond to pressure changes. This preliminary arrangement ensures that air exchange can occur automatically when negative pressure occurs, preventing permanent deformation of the ink tank.
2Reliability
If a long communication pipe is arranged to extend into the ink tank to exchange air, then air exchange can be performed, but the ink tank and barrel cylinder become large
Solution Approach 1:
The air exchange function is merged with the valve stem structure by forming the air exchange hole directly in the valve stem. This integration eliminates the need for a separate long communication pipe extending into the ink tank, thereby reducing the overall size of the ink tank and barrel cylinder while maintaining air exchange capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve stem is given multiple functions: it serves as both the liquid discharge valve component and the air exchange passage. The air exchange hole in the valve stem allows the same structural element to perform both liquid control and air exchange functions, eliminating the need for additional components.
3Ease of operation
If a valve mechanism that opens by pressing the pen tip is used, then liquid can flow when pressed, but the valve mechanism becomes difficult to operate when the brush is pressed from the front due to low rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The valve stem acts as an intermediary between the pressing force and the liquid discharge. By pressing the barrel cylinder, the valve stem is moved to open the valve, providing a mechanical advantage that reduces the force required compared to directly pressing the brush. The valve mechanism amplifies the applied force to achieve liquid discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The direct mechanical pressing of the brush tip is replaced by a valve mechanism that responds to pressure changes in the ink tank. Instead of requiring direct force on the flexible brush, the system uses pressure transmission through the ink tank to actuate the valve, making operation easier.
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 prevents the ink tank from remaining in a negative pressure state after liquid discharge, allowing it to return to its original shape and maintain functionality, thus resolving issues with defective outflow and deformation.
Implementation Method 1
the air exchange hole can be opened and closed by an opening/closing member that opens/closes when the pressure on the application liquid tank side becomes negative or positive compared to that on the applying part side
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator includes a valve mechanism that communicates an application liquid tank and an applying part. The valve mechanism has at least a valve stem and a valve holder for holding the valve stem therein, the application liquid can flow through a gap between the valve stem and the valve holder, the valve stem is formed with an air exchange hole, and, the air exchange hole can be opened and closed by an opening/closing member that opens/closes when the pressure on the application liquid tank side becomes negative or positive compared to that on the applying part side. The applicator is capable of exchanging air after discharging the application liquid even if the applicator is equipped with a valve mechanism that opens its valve by increasing the internal pressure of the ink tank.