Cross-Slit Valve Straw Assembly to Prevent Content Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pre-filled straws require additional assembly steps and risk content loss due to separate production of valves and filters, leading to inefficiencies in manufacturing and use.
Innovation Solution
A pre-filled straw design featuring cross-slit valves molded directly onto a thermoplastic body using multi-component injection molding, ensuring one-way flow and secure closure with elastomer membranes, reducing assembly steps and content loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If valves and filters are added to the straw as separate components, then the closure function is improved, but the device complexity and assembly steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the valve and filter functions into a single integrated component that is molded directly onto the straw body. This eliminates the need for separate valve and filter parts, reducing assembly steps while maintaining the closure and filtration functions. The integrated design is achieved through multi-component injection molding where the valve assembly is formed as one piece with the straw body.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is pre-formed and molded onto the straw body during the manufacturing process before the straw is put into service. This preliminary integration ensures that the closure mechanism is already in place and properly positioned, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and ensuring reliable function from the start.
2Reliability
If separate valves are inserted into the straw, then the closure function is improved, but the risk of content loss increases due to improper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is merged with the straw body through co-molding, creating a seamless integration where the valve base becomes part of the straw wall structure. This eliminates gaps or interfaces where content could leak, ensuring proper sealing and preventing content loss during storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multi-component injection molding to create a composite structure where the straw body (thermoplastic) and valve (elastomer) are bonded together at the molecular level. This strong adhesion between different materials ensures that the valve remains securely attached and maintains reliable sealing, preventing content loss.
3Productivity
If multi-component injection molding is used to integrate valves onto the straw body, then the manufacturing efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into distinct injection molding stages, with each stage focusing on a specific component (straw body, then valve). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while ensuring proper integration, balancing manufacturing efficiency with precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the injection molding process, such as controlling injection pressure, temperature, and timing, to achieve precise integration of the valve with the straw body. By carefully adjusting these parameters, the process maintains high manufacturing efficiency while meeting precision requirements for proper sealing and function.
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
Simplifies production and prevents content loss by integrating elastomer valves onto the straw body through molecular adhesion, ensuring secure closure and efficient liquid flow during use.
Implementation Method 1
The valves 2, 3 are initially in closed position, but when suction in the direction of the arrow 4 is applied, both of them are opened and allow the liquid to enter the straw. When suction is stopped, both valves 2, 3 return to closed position.
Implementation Method 2
integrating elastomer valves onto the straw body through molecular adhesion
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention is characterized in that the straw body (1) is consisting of two or more segments, which are attached together with connection (5) and that the straw body (1) on its both ends has a cross-slit valve (2, 3) closure and the valves (2, 3) and the straw body (1) are integrated by molecular adhesion. The inlet and outlet valves (2, 3) are of a slit type. The straw body (1) is preferably made of a thermoplastic material and the valves (2, 3) are preferably made of elastomer material. The edge of the straw body (1) is shaped to enable larger surface of the connection between the straw body (1) and the valve (2, 3). The said shape is preferably a groove (8). On the wall on the end of the straw body (1) a tongue-shaped groove (9) is formed on the surface side.