Deformable Dual-Cavity Container for Under-Counter Dispenser Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Counter-mounted liquid dispensing systems face challenges in efficiently installing and maintaining flowable material containers under washroom counters, particularly due to the need for deformable components that can fit through small access holes and ensure hygienic sealing and easy refilling.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring two deformable portions with a sealable inlet and a pump system, where the first portion deforms to fit into the access hole and the second portion deforms to fit through, allowing for easy installation and refilling, with optional features like a removable clip and dip tube for secure sealing and dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid container is used, then structural strength is improved, but the container cannot deform to fit through small access holes
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into two separate portions: a first rigid portion that provides structural strength and contains the liquid, and a second deformable portion that can be collapsed and fed through the access hole. This segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific function - the rigid first portion maintains integrity while the collapsable second portion enables easy installation through constrained spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The second deformable portion is nested within or attached to the first rigid portion during installation. The collapsable second portion can be fed through the access hole first, then the rigid first portion is positioned over it, creating a nested configuration that facilitates installation while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the container is made collapsable, then installation ease is improved, but sealing reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container system separates the collapsable function (second portion) from the sealing function (first portion with inlet). The rigid first portion maintains a stable inlet opening that can be reliably sealed by the pump assembly, while the second portion handles the collapsable installation aspect. This segmentation ensures that the sealing interface remains rigid and reliable.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump assembly acts as an intermediary component that connects to the inlet of the first portion and provides the sealing function. The pump assembly includes sealing elements that interface with the rigid inlet structure, ensuring reliable sealing while allowing the rest of the container to be collapsable for easy installation.
3Productivity
If a pump assembly is integrated, then dispensing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump assembly is merged with the container system as an integrated unit, combining the dispensing function with the liquid storage function. The pump assembly connects directly to the inlet of the first portion, creating a unified system that reduces the need for separate external pumping components and simplifies installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump assembly serves multiple functions: it seals the inlet, provides the dispensing mechanism, and can be configured to work with different container types. The pump assembly's dip tube extends into the liquid and works with the collapsable portion, providing universal functionality across different installation configurations.
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
Facilitates easy installation and refilling of liquid containers under counters, ensuring hygienic handling and efficient dispensing, while accommodating various materials and configurations for durability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The first deformable portion is configured to deform to fit into the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein and the second deformable portion configured to deform to fit through the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a container for flowable material configured to be installed in a counter below an access hole. The container includes a first deformable portion and a second deformable portion. The first deformable portion defines a first cavity and has a sealable first cavity inlet. The second deformable portion defines a second cavity and is in flow communication with the first cavity. The first deformable portion is configured to deform to fit into the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein and the second deformable portion configured to deform to fit through the access hole when substantially no flowable material is therein. The disclosure also includes a method of installing a container of flowable material in a counter below an access hole.