Liquid Dispenser Flowrate Reducer Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid dispenser devices face challenges in achieving accurate dimensional precision for flow rate reduction, leading to difficulties in manufacturing and adaptation for different liquid viscosities, particularly for pharmaceutical applications like eyedrops.
Innovation Solution
A liquid dispenser device with a separate flowrate-reducer member distinct from the valve and support, allowing independent optimization of sealing and flow rate reduction functions, enabling easier assembly, modification, and adaptation to various liquid viscosities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the flowrate-reducer shape is made in the same part as the valve and support, then the device structure is simpler, but the dimensional accuracy required for sealing and flow rate reduction becomes extremely difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the endpiece into three separate functional parts: the valve for sealing, the support for structural framework, and a distinct flowrate-reducer member for flow control. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized and manufactured independently with appropriate tolerances, avoiding the need for extremely tight dimensional accuracy across all components simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The flowrate-reducer function is extracted from the valve and support structures and implemented as a separate flowrate-reducer member. This extraction allows the sealing function (valve-support interface) and flow rate reduction function to be independently optimized, with the flowrate-reducer member being adjustable or replaceable to achieve precise flow control without compromising sealing accuracy.
2Manufacturing precision
If the valve and support dimensions are made very accurate to enable both liquid passing and flow rate reduction, then the flow rate control is improved, but the manufacturing difficulty and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the flowrate-reducer function into a separate member, the patent allows this component to be manufactured with high precision using specialized processes (such as precision machining or injection molding with tight tolerances) without requiring the same level of precision across the entire assembly. The separate flowrate-reducer member can be optimized for its specific function while the valve and support are manufactured with standard tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables adjustment of the flowrate-reducer channel dimensions (such as gap size or channel cross-section) as a variable parameter. This allows the flow rate to be controlled by adjusting the geometry of the flowrate-reducer member rather than relying on extremely precise fixed dimensions of the valve and support, providing flexibility in manufacturing and quality control.
3Reliability
If the sealing zone is extended to accommodate the flowrate-reducer shape, then the flow rate reduction is more effective, but the endpiece becomes larger and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the flowrate-reducer member from the sealing zone (valve-support interface), allowing the flow rate reduction to occur in a dedicated channel within the flowrate-reducer member rather than requiring an extended sealing zone. This segmentation enables effective flow control while maintaining a compact overall endpiece design, as the flowrate-reducer member can be positioned downstream from the sealing interface.
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 solution ensures reliable and efficient flow rate reduction without compromising sealing, simplifies manufacturing, and allows for compact design and easy adaptation to different liquid types, reducing the risk of bacterial growth in the dispenser.
Implementation Method 1
the valve comprising an elastomer material and being capable of taking up a blocking configuration and a liquid-passing configuration by co-operating with the support
Implementation Method 2
a channel of helical shape, of small section, and suitable for deflecting the liquid to generate head loss when a user squeezes the container
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid dispenser device including a container for storing the liquid to be dispensed, a dispenser endpiece mounted on the container, being provided with a support and a liquid dispenser valve, the valve including an elastomer material and being capable of taking up a blocking configuration and a liquid-passing configuration by co-operating with the support, and a flowrate-reducer member including a liquid-deflector shape defining a flowrate-reducer channel, the flowrate-reducer member being a part that is separate from the support and separate from the valve.