Fluid Mixing Dispenser Valving Rod for Solvent-Free Cleaning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Foam-in-place packaging dispensers often occlude due to the build-up and hardening of foam precursors, requiring frequent cleaning with solvents, which is costly and environmentally unfavorable.

Innovation Solution

A device with a valving rod that moves between open, cleaning, and closed positions to allow continuous flushing with one fluid (e.g., polyols) to prevent build-up in the mixing chamber, eliminating the need for a cleaning solvent by using the second fluid as a flushing agent.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a solvent is used to clean the dispenser, then the dispenser can be effectively cleaned, but the operational expense increases and environmental impact worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecleaning effectivenessVSAvoidsolvent consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the polyol (a material already present in the foamable composition) to automatically flush and clean the mixing chamber, eliminating the need for external cleaning solvents. The polyol acts as a self-service cleaning agent that is continuously circulated through the mixing chamber to prevent and remove build-up.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The polyol serves multiple functions: it is both a reactant in the foamable composition and a cleaning agent for the mixing chamber. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cleaning solvents, reducing both cost and environmental impact while maintaining effective cleaning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If the dispenser operates continuously without cleaning, then productivity is maintained, but occlusion occurs due to build-up and hardening

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontinuous operationVSAvoiddispenser functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The polyol flushing system operates continuously or periodically to prevent build-up in the mixing chamber, ensuring that the dispenser maintains its functionality throughout continuous operation. This continuous cleaning action prevents occlusion and eliminates the need for production stoppages for manual cleaning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary cleaning by continuously flushing the mixing chamber with polyol before build-up can harden and cause occlusion. This preventive cleaning action maintains dispenser reliability throughout continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If manual cleaning is performed frequently, then dispenser reliability is maintained, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispenser functionalityVSAvoidcleaning time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The automatic polyol flushing system performs cleaning without human intervention, eliminating the time workers would spend on manual cleaning tasks. The system self-regulates the cleaning process by circulating polyol through the mixing chamber.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical cleaning process is replaced with an automated fluid flushing system that uses polyol circulation to clean the mixing chamber, significantly reducing the time and labor required for maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution effectively prevents occlusion in dispensers without the need for solvents, reducing operational costs and environmental impact while maintaining dispenser functionality.

Implementation Method 1

the valving rod (a) substantially seals closed the first inlet to substantially prevent the first fluid from entering the mixing chamber

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSealing:

Implementation Method 2

the second fluid may enter the mixing chamber... the second fluid continues to enter and flow through the mixing chamber

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow:

Implementation Method 3

The isocyanate and polyol precursors react to form polyurethane

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectChemical reaction: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 4

The carbon dioxide causes the polyurethane to expand into a foamed cellular structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFoaming: Foam

Data Source

PatentUS8511047B2Device for mixing and dispensing fluids

Publication Date: 2013.08.20 SEALED AIR U S

AI summary

One aspect of the invention pertains to a device for mixing and dispensing fluids, which generally includes a housing; a mixing chamber having a first inlet for introducing a first fluid into the mixing chamber, a second inlet for introducing a second fluid into the mixing chamber, and an outlet through which fluid may exit the mixing chamber; and a valving rod received within the mixing chamber and movable between an open position, in which the first and second inlets are in fluid communication with the mixing chamber, a cleaning position, in which the valving rod substantially seals closed the first inlet but does not seal closed the second inlet, and a closed position, in which the valving rod substantially seals closed the first and second inlets.