De-icer scraper cap
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispenser caps for spray cans lack a convenient and controlled mechanism to dispense de-icer compounds effectively for clearing ice from windshields, often resulting in inefficient ice removal and potential overspray.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser cap with an integral scraper and fluid-delivery controller that mounts on a spray can, featuring a unitary design with a hinge and frangible webs, allowing for controlled dispensing of pressurized fluid through a nozzle while breaking away from support posts upon first use, enhancing usability and assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional dispenser cap is used for spray cans, then the structure is simple, but the ice removal efficiency is poor and overspray occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the dispenser cap, scraper, and fluid-delivery controller into a single integrated unit that mounts on the spray can. The shell integrates the cap structure, the scraper is coupled to the shell, and the fluid-delivery controller is integrated with the shell, creating a unified device that simultaneously provides containment, scraping, and controlled fluid dispensing functions, thereby improving ice removal efficiency while managing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated dispenser cap performs multiple functions: the shell provides containment and mounting, the scraper removes ice, and the fluid-delivery controller dispenses de-icer compound. This multi-functional design allows a single device to address both ice removal and fluid application, improving overall productivity
2Ease of operation
If a conventional dispenser cap is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but controlled dispensing is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid-delivery controller incorporates a hinge that allows the controller to pivot between a retracted position (during shipping) and an extended position (during use). This dynamic mechanism enables controlled dispensing of de-icer compound through a nozzle, allowing the user to direct fluid precisely where needed while reducing overspray, despite adding manufacturing complexity
3Productivity
If the fluid-delivery controller is integrated with the shell, then assembly efficiency is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid-delivery controller is integrated with the shell through a hinge connection, forming a unified structure that moves together. This integration eliminates the need for separate assembly steps for the controller and shell, improving assembly efficiency while the hinge mechanism manages the complexity through a standardized connection
4Reliability
If frangible webs are used to connect the fluid-delivery controller to the shell, then the device is more reliable during shipping, but the structure is more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Frangible webs are used to preliminarily secure the fluid-delivery controller to the shell in a fixed position during shipping and storage. These webs are designed to break away when the user intentionally activates the hinge, providing reliability during transport while allowing controlled deployment during use. This preliminary securing mechanism manages shipping stability without permanently increasing structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser cap includes a shell, a scraper coupled to the shell, and a fluid-delivery controller. The dispenser cap mounts on a spray can, and the fluid-delivery controller engages with a valve of the spray can to selectively dispense pressurized fluid from the spray can.