Compressible Container Applicator for Controlled Fluid Dispensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Dispensing liquids or viscous fluids from compressible containers is challenging due to uneven distribution of remaining material, leading to material loss, especially as the container empties, and requires precise hand compression for control.

Innovation Solution

A multi-use applicator with a holding member and a cover that securely attaches to the compressible container, featuring a fastening mechanism and compression area to facilitate even extraction and control of the fluid flow.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If compressible container is manually compressed between fingers, then dispensing control is achieved, but precision and consistency are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispensing controlVSAvoiddispensing precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator acts as an intermediary device between the user and the compressible container. It includes a compression member that interfaces with the container and translates manual pressure into controlled material dispensing through a dispensing member, thereby improving precision while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the direct mechanical compression between fingers and container with a structured mechanical system comprising a compression member, applicator body, and dispensing member. This mechanical substitution provides leverage and control mechanisms that enhance dispensing precision

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If compressible container is compressed to extract remaining material, then material extraction is improved, but uneven distribution causes material loss

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvematerial extraction efficiencyVSAvoidmaterial loss

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator features a compression member with specific geometric characteristics (such as curved surfaces or localized compression zones) that apply pressure to specific regions of the container. This localized quality of compression ensures even material distribution and extraction from the container, preventing material loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator is designed to pre-position the dispensing member and establish proper compression geometry before material extraction begins. This preliminary action ensures that the compression force is optimally distributed from the start, preventing uneven material flow and loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If applicator is designed for specific container size, then extraction precision is improved, but versatility across different containers is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveextraction precisionVSAvoidcontainer compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is designed with universal features including an adjustable compression member, flexible applicator body, and adaptable dispensing member that can accommodate various container sizes, shapes, and material viscosities. This multi-functionality maintains extraction precision across different container types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Volume of moving object

If compressible container is held between thumb and forefinger, then compact handling is achieved, but precision dispensing becomes difficult as container empties

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontainer compactnessVSAvoidprecision dispensing

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator separates the container handling function from the compression and dispensing functions. The container remains compact and held securely, while the applicator's compression member and dispensing member handle the precision dispensing tasks independently, maintaining ease of operation throughout the dispensing process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enhances flow and pinpoint control of dispensing, minimizing waste by allowing for consistent extraction of materials from containers of varying sizes and viscosities, and enabling reuse with different containers.

Implementation Method 1

a toothpaste container having a closed end and a dispensing outlet may be compressed to dispel the toothpaste from an open end

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

a fastening mechanism extending from a proximal end of the neck of the holding member, the fastening mechanism being configured to removably couple to the compressible container

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11485548B1Multi-use applicator and methods for its use

Publication Date: 2022.11.01 INNOVATIVE PRODUCT BRANDS INC

AI summary

A multi-use applicator and methods for dispensing compounds. The applicator is configured for use with a compressible tubular container. The applicator has a holding member, where the holding member incorporates a fastening mechanism to secure the compressible tubular container. Once the compressible tubular container is secured to the holding member, a cover may be placed over the container and connected to the holding member. The cover may include at least one compressible side which when pressed would facilitate the extraction of the materials out of the compressible tubular container.