Elastically Deformable Valve Plug for Reliable Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valves for consumer product containers and dispensers often face challenges in efficiently converting from a closed to an open position, particularly due to sticking issues and alignment problems, which affect the reliable flow of materials.
Innovation Solution
The use of an elastically deformable member, such as a plug and sleeve configuration, where stress is applied to create dimensional changes and form flow paths, allowing the valve to transition from a normally closed to an open position, with optional features like annular rings and various materials to minimize leakage and ensure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a piston valve biased towards closure using a spring is used, then the valve can maintain a closed position, but it experiences sticking issues and alignment problems when converting to an open position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the sealing member by using an elastically deformable material that can transition between deformed and recovered states. This elastic deformation capability allows the sealing member to dynamically adjust its shape and position during valve operation, enabling smooth transition between closed and open positions without sticking or alignment issues
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is designed to be dynamically deformable rather than static. When stress is applied, the sealing member deforms elastically to facilitate valve opening; when stress is released, it naturally recovers its original shape to ensure proper sealing. This dynamic behavior resolves the sticking and alignment problems associated with static spring-biased piston valves
2Productivity
If stress is applied to create dimensional changes in an elastically deformable member, then the valve can convert from closed to open position, but requires precise control of stress application
Solution Approach 1:
The elastically deformable sealing member is designed to automatically deform and recover in response to applied stress without requiring complex control mechanisms. The material's inherent elastic properties enable it to self-adjust its configuration, converting the valve from closed to open position efficiently through simple stress application and natural recovery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an elastically deformable sealing member that functions as a flexible component capable of significant shape change. This flexible member can be made from elastomeric materials that respond predictably to stress, enabling efficient valve conversion while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
3Reliability
If an elastically deformable sealing member is used to ensure sealing, then leakage is minimized, but the material selection and manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes materials with specific elastic properties that can be selected and engineered to achieve the desired sealing performance. By changing the material parameters (elasticity, deformability, recovery characteristics), the system achieves reliable sealing while accommodating standard manufacturing tolerances for the deformable component
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
This solution enables reliable and efficient material flow by effectively converting the valve from a closed to an open position, reducing sticking issues and alignment problems, ensuring consistent dispensing of consumer products.
Implementation Method 1
an elastically deformable member, such as a plug and sleeve configuration, where stress is applied to create dimensional changes
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve having a sleeve comprising a sleeve wall including an inner surface; and a plug positioned within the sleeve, the plug comprising at least one portion that is elastically deformable. The plug forms a blind hole extending into the plug from one end thereof to define a plug side wall, and a flow passage that extends through the plug side wall that is either open or openable. The plug defines a valve closed position in an unstressed state, yet is capable of elastically deforming to define a flow channel between the plug and the sleeve in a valve open position. A dispenser containing such a valve is also provided.