Counter-Mounted Viscous Dispenser Mounting for Tool-Free Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional counter-mounted viscous liquid dispensers face difficulties in refilling and replacement due to leakage issues, limited orientation flexibility during installation, and the need for working under the counter, which is time-consuming and costly, especially in public restroom settings where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A reservoir assembly with a movable or stationary mounting element that allows for easy alignment and attachment from any rotational orientation, combined with a mounting system that secures the dispenser to the counter without requiring access underneath, facilitating easy installation and replacement without the need for additional tools or counter removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid tube with locking device is used to mount the dispenser through the counter, then the dispenser is securely mounted, but the installation becomes difficult and time-consuming requiring work both above and below the counter
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism is extracted from the traditional through-counter rigid tube design. The flange and mounting mechanism are removed from the dispenser body and placed as a separate component that attaches to the bottom of the reservoir assembly, eliminating the need to work underneath the counter for installation.
Solution Approach 2:
A separate mounting assembly acts as an intermediary between the reservoir assembly and the counter. This mounting assembly includes a flange that contacts the counter surface and a mounting mechanism that secures the assembly, serving as a mediator that simplifies the installation process while maintaining secure mounting.
2Extent of automation
If the pump actuator is positioned off-center, then the pump can be actuated, but the refill reservoir must be precisely aligned in a specific orientation during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element incorporates asymmetric features including a cam profile and detent mechanism that work together to automatically orient the reservoir assembly correctly during installation. The asymmetric cam profile guides the actuator rod into proper alignment while the detent provides a positive stop at the correct orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting element includes a movable cam profile that dynamically adjusts during the insertion process. As the reservoir assembly is pushed into place, the cam rotates and guides the actuator rod, automatically achieving proper alignment without requiring precise manual positioning by the installer.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuator openings are provided for different orientations, then the refill can be installed in several positions, but the alignment remains difficult when working under a counter
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element is designed with universal compatibility featuring a circular recess that can accept the actuator rod from any rotational orientation. The cam profile and detent mechanism work together to convert any starting orientation into the correct final position, providing universal installation capability while maintaining precise alignment.
4Device complexity
If the dispensing head is integrated into the mounting assembly, then the structure is unified, but the installation requires working under the counter which is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser system is segmented into separate functional modules: the reservoir assembly with integrated pump, the mounting assembly with flange and mounting mechanism, and the dispensing head. This segmentation allows the mounting assembly to be designed independently with installation features that eliminate the need to work underneath the counter, reducing installation time while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an in-counter viscous liquid dispensing system. The features of the viscous liquid dispensing system include a quick mounting reservoir assembly that allows an installer to install the reservoir assembly in any orientation of the reservoir assembly to the counter mounted parts of the system. Other features include a mounting system which allows an installer to install the in-counter dispensing system with out the need to work both above and below the counter top.