Resilient Bellows Dispensing Device for Flexible Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing devices for flexible packaging, such as 'doypack' type, are inadequate for allowing user-selected volume dispensing and are not suitable for flexible packaging with low shape stability, often resulting in incomplete emptying and difficulty in adapting to various outlet nozzle diameters.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing device with a resilient bellows and an adjusting nut that allows stepless adjustment of the dispensed volume, featuring a cylindrical shape with helical coils and an internal thread for precise volume control, and catch elements to prevent axial sliding, enabling adaptation to different packaging sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pump dispenser with predefined volume grooves is used, then dispensing precision is improved, but adaptability to different packaging sizes and shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows structure allows dynamic adjustment of the dispensing volume by changing the number of active folds, enabling the same device to adapt to different packaging sizes and desired dispensing amounts without requiring multiple fixed-volume components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the key parameter of dispensing volume from a fixed value (predefined grooves) to a variable value (adjustable number of bellows folds), allowing continuous adaptation to different packaging and user needs while maintaining precise dispensing control
2Ease of operation
If a resilient bellows-actuated pump is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to inability to control dispensed volume
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows design transforms the static volume control into a dynamic system where the user can adjust the number of active folds before each dispensing action, maintaining simple operation while achieving precise volume control through the adjustable configuration rather than complex manufacturing tolerances
3Measurement precision
If a dispenser with fixed groove lengths is used, then dispensing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple predetermined positions
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of multiple fixed grooves creating a complex static structure, the invention uses a single dynamic bellows structure that can be configured to different volumes by adjusting the number of active folds, reducing structural complexity while maintaining dispensing precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the volume control from multiple discrete fixed positions (complex grooves) to a continuous adjustable parameter (number of bellows folds), simplifying the structure while preserving precise volume control capability
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 complete emptying of flexible packaging with user-selectable volume dispensing, preventing liquid dripping and accommodating various outlet nozzle diameters, making it suitable for a wide range of flexible packaging types.
Implementation Method 1
said folds or helical coils of resilient bellows are adapted to flex under pressure exerted on said bottom in axial direction of said bellows, towards the body
Implementation Method 2
said adjusting nut is provided with an internal thread, adapted in size to dimensions of helical coils of the bellows for stepless continuous adjustment of a volume of said inner space of the resilient bellows
Implementation Method 3
said catch elements are so shaped as to be located at a distance from both, a side surface of the body facing towards them and a surface of said flange, so that a receiving space is defined
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A dispensing device (D) according to the invention for dispensing liquids from flexible packaging, in particular for dispensing a defined amount of a liquid from a flexible packaging comprising a device body (1) having generally elongated shape, wherein in said body (1) at its one end, an inlet fitting (2) is mounted and at its another end an outlet fitting (3) is mounted, wherein the body (1) defines an inner space (la) and is further provided on its side surface with a connection opening (11), wherein to said connection opening (11), and preferably to a flange (1c) outwardly projecting from a side surface of the body (1) and surrounding said connecting opening (11) a resilient bellows (9) is attached in a sealed manner, consisting of a certain number of folds (F), preferably in the form of helical coils (Z), and wherein said resilient bellows (9) defines inside an inner space (9a) being in fluid communication with said connection opening (11) and said inner space (la). Said folds (F) or helical coils (Z) are adapted to flex under pressure exerted on a bellows bottom (9b) in axial direction, towards the body (1). The dispensing device (D) is further provided with an assembly for stepless adjustment of a volume of dispensed liquid comprising a control element (8) cooperating with said resilient bellows (9) and arranged on outer side surface of said bellows (9) and/or said flange (1c) around their outer periphery, at least on a certain section of a length of said resilient bellows (9) and/or said flange (1c).