Dispensing Actuator Alignment via Flexible Overcap Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art actuation systems in aerosol containers face issues such as actuator breakage due to rigid connections, misalignment with the dispensing orifice, and manufacturing inefficiencies, leading to increased costs and product defects.
Innovation Solution
The dispensing system incorporates an actuator with angled and flat surfaces that interact with channels in flanges on the overcap, allowing for alignment and flexibility during actuation, which enhances the actuator's lifespan and prevents misalignment, while a streamlined manufacturing process secures the actuator within the overcap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the actuator is rigidly connected to the overcap sidewall, then the actuator is securely retained, but the actuator may break due to lack of flexibility during actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by making the overcap sidewall flexible in the region where the actuator is retained. The sidewall is designed to flexibly pivot about a hinge line, allowing the actuator to move with it during actuation. This flexible connection prevents actuator breakage while maintaining secure retention, resolving the contradiction between strength and reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If the actuator is rigidly connected to the overcap, then manufacturing is simplified, but misalignment with the dispensing orifice occurs due to tolerance variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by transitioning from a rigid, fixed connection to a dynamic, flexible connection. The sidewall's ability to flexibly pivot allows the actuator to self-align with the dispensing orifice during assembly and operation, compensating for manufacturing tolerances while maintaining ease of manufacture.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the overcap is made flexible to allow actuator movement, then actuator lifespan is extended, but the structural integrity of the overcap may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by segmenting the overcap sidewall into different functional regions. The portion retaining the actuator is made flexible to extend actuator lifespan, while other portions maintain structural integrity. This segmentation allows the overcap to have both flexibility where needed and strength where required.
Data Source
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Figure 2a
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AI summary
A method of dispensing includes the steps of exerting a force on an actuator of a dispenser having a conduit with an inlet and an outlet in a first non-actuation state, to place the actuator in a second actuation state. When the actuator is in the second actuation state, the inlet and the outlet of the actuator are moved from a first position to a second position.