Fluid Dispenser Drain Valve for Dip Tube Refill
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing applicator dispensers in perfumery and cosmetics leave the dip tube empty after use, requiring re-filling before the next application, as the fluid from the cup is pushed back into the reservoir when the applicator is replaced.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an emptying valve at the bottom of the cup that opens at a lower overpressure threshold than necessary to discharge through the dip tube, allowing fluid from the cup to return to the reservoir when the removable member is reattached, ensuring the dip tube remains filled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If the cup contents are discharged back into the reservoir through the dip tube when the removable component is replaced, then the cup is emptied, but the dip tube becomes empty and requires refilling before the next use
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge path is segmented into two separate paths: one through the dip tube (maintained filled) and another through a separate drainage channel or valve system that allows cup contents to be purged without emptying the dip tube. This segmentation enables selective discharge of cup contents while preserving the dip tube's fluid supply.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary drainage mechanism (such as a drainage valve or separate channel) is introduced to mediate between the cup and the reservoir, allowing fluid to bypass the dip tube during discharge. This intermediary path enables cup emptying while maintaining the dip tube's fluid inventory for immediate next-use dispensing.
2Ease of operation
If the applicator is completely removed from the cup, then the applicator can be brought into contact with the skin, but the cup becomes partially filled with fluid that must be pushed back through the dip tube
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically purging excess cup contents through the drainage mechanism when the applicator is removed, without requiring manual intervention to refill or clean the dip tube. The drainage system activates automatically based on pressure differential or valve mechanism triggered by applicator removal.
Solution Approach 2:
Excess fluid in the cup is deliberately discarded through the drainage path to the reservoir, while the dip tube's fluid inventory is recovered and preserved. This selective discarding and recovering ensures optimal fluid distribution between cup and dip tube for continuous operation.
3Reliability
If a sealed sliding motion is used to remove the applicator, then fluid product can be aspirated into the applicator, but the dip tube must be refilled before the next use
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage mechanism is pre-configured to automatically activate when the applicator is removed, performing the refilling action in advance before the next dispensing cycle begins. This preliminary action ensures the dip tube is already filled when needed, eliminating waiting time and maintaining continuous productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring the dip tube remains filled throughout the applicator removal and replacement cycle. The drainage mechanism operates continuously or periodically to prevent dip tube emptying, ensuring uninterrupted fluid supply for immediate next-use dispensing without breaking the productive cycle.
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 design ensures the dip tube remains partially or fully filled with fluid, allowing immediate re-filling of the applicator upon next use, enhancing the efficiency of fluid product dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
an applicator adapted to retain a dose of fluid product from the injection orifice by aspiration generated by the sealed sliding of the tube against the piston
Implementation Method 2
the bucket is equipped with a drain valve which selectively connects the inside of the bucket with the fluid product reservoir, so as to discharge the fluid product contained in the bucket back into the reservoir when the removable component is replaced on the base part
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
Device comprising: - a base part (2) mounted on a tank (1) and comprising a dip tube (24) and a bucket (21) in which an injection opening (261) connected to the dip tube (24) is formed, and - a removable member (3) mounted in a removable manner on the base part (2) and comprising a tube (33) and an applicator (35) able to hold a dose of the fluid product through suction generated by the sealed sliding of the tube (33) against a piston, the applicator comprising a collection and application space (35) formed in the tube (33), characterized in that the bucket (21) is equipped with a drain valve (221, 222, 5) that places the interior of the bucket (21) in communication with the tank (1) so as to discharge the fluid product contained in the bucket (21) when the removable member (3) is repositioned on the base part (2).