Atomizer Counter Device Locking Mechanism for Dosing Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing atomizers lack effective mechanisms for preventing misoperation, such as sucking in air from empty containers or exceeding the permitted number of uses, which can lead to reduced dosing accuracy and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
An atomizer design with a detachable counter device that locks the device against further operation or container exchange when a specified number of operations or containers is reached, ensuring the user is protected from misoperation through a mechanical counter system integrated with the housing parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no locking mechanism is provided, then the atomizer can be operated freely and containers can be exchanged easily, but misoperation occurs such as sucking air from empty containers or exceeding permitted uses
Solution Approach 1:
The counter device is activated before the atomizer reaches its operational limit. It counts the number of used containers and operations, and triggers the locking mechanism in advance when the predetermined number is reached, preventing misoperation before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter device serves as an intermediary between the container supply and the atomizer operation. It monitors the usage status and translates it into a locking signal, mediating between the user's operation and the atomizer's operational state to prevent unauthorized further use.
2Measurement precision
If a counter device is integrated into the housing, then operation tracking is accurate, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The counter device is merged with the housing structure of the atomizer. The housing serves dual purposes: as the structural enclosure and as the mounting structure for the counter device, eliminating the need for separate counter device housing and reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the counter device, and facilitates the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the system.
3Reliability
If the atomizer is locked after reaching the predetermined number, then dosing accuracy is maintained, but the device cannot be reused without disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The atomizer system is segmented into replaceable modules: the container can be exchanged independently, and the locking mechanism can be reset by removing and reattaching the housing. This segmentation allows partial reuse of the device while maintaining dosing accuracy through proper locking.
Data Source
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AI summary
An atomiser for a fluid, in particular for medical aerosol therapy, is proposed. In order to allow simplified operation and improved safety in use, the atomiser has a counter device for counting the operations of the atomiser and the number of containers inserted, wherein the atomiser is locked against removal of the current container and insertion of a new container, if a certain number of containers inserted has been reached or exceeded.