Bulk Product Dispenser with Segmented Closure Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulk product dispensers are complex to manufacture and maintain, and they do not allow for precise quantity control or management of non-standardized products, often requiring reprogramming of control units with each product change, and they lack efficient handling of containers.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser with a hopper and a movable closure member that can be manually operated, featuring a rounded cover with an equalizing bar to prevent jamming, allowing for precise control over access and dispensing, optionally including a weighing platform and payment system, enabling easy use and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sequential opening device with a bottomless box is used, then the hopper can be opened by steps, but it does not make it possible to dispense a precise quantity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary weighing device (scale) between the hopper and the user to measure the bulk product during dispensing. The closure member allows the user to control the opening while the weighing device provides real-time feedback on the quantity being dispensed, enabling precise quantity control through a simple mechanical interface without complex automation.
2Measurement precision
If a control unit with feed valves and weighing device is used, then precise quantity control is achieved, but the system becomes complex to manufacture and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple mechanical weighing scale that operates autonomously without requiring electronic control units, programming, or complex automation. The user manually opens the hopper using the closure member while the scale automatically measures and displays the weight, eliminating the need for feed valves, motors, and programmable controllers, thus dramatically reducing manufacturing and maintenance complexity.
3Reliability
If a closure member blocks both access and product flow simultaneously, then security is improved, but the user cannot place or retrieve containers efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The closure member is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first zone that blocks product flow from the hopper and a second zone that controls access to the reception area. This segmentation allows the closure member to independently control product flow and user access, enabling the user to place containers on the reception area when access is blocked, and retrieve them when both access and flow are permitted, thus improving both security and operational efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The bulk product dispenser comprises a product feed hopper (5) from a product reservoir (P), the outlet (50) of the hopper (5) being positioned above a receiving zone (4) for a container (15), and a shut-off device (40) being mounted between the hopper (5) and the receiving zone (4). This device is movable between at least a first position providing access to the receiving zone (4) and closing the outlet (50) of the hopper (5), a second position closing the access to the receiving zone (4) and opening the outlet (50) of the hopper (5), and a third intermediate position. The shut-off device is a rounded cover (40) whose visible face is arc-shaped and provided with an opening (10) whose shape is complementary to that of the outlet (50) of the hopper (5). The invention also relates to a method of using the dispenser.