Liquid Dispenser Recirculation Valve Prevents Segregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for multiphase liquids, such as paints and cosmetics, face issues with segregation due to prolonged storage in conduits, leading to sediment formation and property changes, especially when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A compact apparatus with a valve assembly that can switch between dispensing and recirculation positions, using a bidirectional pump and a recirculation conduit to intermittently circulate liquids and prevent segregation, featuring a three-way valve or coordinated one-way valves to manage flow direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If liquids are stored in conduits for prolonged periods, then the dispenser can operate intermittently without maintenance, but the liquids segregate and form sediment
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic recirculation of liquids through the conduits at predetermined intervals. A controller activates pumps to circulate liquids back through the system, preventing sedimentation and segregation that would occur during prolonged stationary storage. This periodic action maintains liquid homogeneity while allowing extended operational intervals between maintenance cycles.
2Stability of the object's composition
If recirculation conduits are added to prevent segregation, then liquid properties are maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The recirculation conduits are integrated with the existing dispensing conduits to form a unified circuit system. The same conduits that deliver liquid to the dispenser also serve as return paths for recirculation, eliminating the need for completely separate recirculation lines. This merging approach maintains liquid homogeneity while minimizing additional structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduits in the system serve multiple functions: they act as both dispensing pathways and recirculation pathways. By designing the conduit system to be multi-functional, the patent avoids the complexity of dedicated separate systems for each function, while still achieving the goal of preventing liquid segregation through recirculation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If recirculation is implemented continuously, then segregation is prevented, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous recirculation, the system uses periodic recirculation activated at predetermined intervals by a controller. Pumps are activated only when needed to maintain liquid homogeneity, rather than operating continuously. This approach prevents segregation while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used to control flow directions, then dispensing and recirculation can be controlled independently, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly integrates multiple valve functions into a single coordinated structure. Rather than using separate valves for dispensing and recirculation control, the system employs a unified valve assembly that can direct flow to different pathways based on operational requirements. This merging reduces the number of discrete components while maintaining the flexibility needed for independent control of dispensing and recirculation modes.
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 effectively prevents segregation of multiphase liquids by ensuring continuous circulation, maintaining liquid properties and reducing the risk of sediment formation, while being cost-effective and compact.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid is then pumped to circulate via a circuit formed by the container, the pump conduit, the valve assembly and the recirculation conduit
Implementation Method 2
A valve assembly between the pump conduit and the dispense conduit closes off the dispense conduit while it opens a recirculation conduit
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for selectively dispensing liquids, such as paint colorants. The apparatus comprises container assemblies with a container and a pump. A pump conduit connects the pump to a valve assembly. A recirculation conduit connects the container to the valve assembly bypassing the pump. The valve assembly is configured to be switched between a dispensing position and a recirculation position closing off the dispense conduit. Method of preventing segregation of a multiphase liquid in a pump conduit between a container and a dispense conduit. A valve assembly between the pump conduit and the dispense conduit closes off the dispense conduit while it opens a recirculation conduit between the container and the valve assembly. The liquid is circulated via a circuit formed by the container, the pump conduit, the valve assembly and the recirculation unit.