Detergent Container Snap-Fit Retainer for Secure Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for washing machines lack a secure and reliable mechanism to prevent accidental disengagement of detergent containers during operation, leading to potential inconsistencies in detergent delivery and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system featuring a retainer with a resiliently deformable connection that provides a snap-fit engagement with the cap of the detergent container, ensuring secure attachment and preventing unintentional disengagement, while allowing for easy user removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a gravity based system is used for dispensing fluid, then the system is simple in structure, but the system lacks a secure mechanism to prevent accidental disengagement of containers
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer incorporates a resiliently deformable connection that dynamically adapts during engagement. The resilient portion deforms elastically to allow container insertion, then returns to its original shape to lock the container securely in place, providing both ease of installation and reliable retention
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism changes its mechanical properties through elastic deformation. The resilient portion transitions between deformed and recovered states, altering its dimensional parameters to enable both easy engagement and secure locking of the container
2Reliability
If a secure engagement mechanism is implemented, then container retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient connection provides self-locking functionality without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms. The elastic deformation and recovery of the resilient portion automatically secures the container in place, eliminating the need for separate locking devices
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism utilizes a resilient portion that functions as a flexible element, allowing deformation during engagement and providing elastic recovery to maintain secure contact. This flexible approach replaces rigid, multi-component locking mechanisms
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
The system ensures consistent and reliable dispensing of detergent, preventing accidental disengagement and providing audible/physical confirmation of proper engagement, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a retainer releasably engagable with the cap, wherein the retainer is engagable with the cap via a releasable and resiliency deformable connection providing resistance against withdrawal of the container from the receptacle
Data Source
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AI summary
A dispensing system for dispensing material from a container having an opening secured by a cap through which material from the container is dispensed. The dispensing system comprises a dispenser defining a receptacle shaped to receive the container and a retainer releasably engagable with the cap, wherein the retainer is engagable with the cap via a releasable and resiliently deformable connection providing resistance against withdrawal of the container from the receptacle. In some embodiments, an aperture defined in the retainer is shaped and dimensioned to receive a portion of the cap. In some embodiments, a portion of the retainer is resiliently deformable, and at least partially defines the resiliently deformable connection. In some embodiments, the portion of the retainer is a protrusion extending in a direction toward the receptacle. In some embodiments, the releasable and resiliently deformable connection provides a snap fit engagement between the retainer and the cap.