Liquid Dispensing Apparatus with Density Timer and Float Valve

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid product dispensing systems face challenges in accurately measuring and dispensing a consistent volume due to variable flow rates and air interference, leading to consumer dissatisfaction with laundry products.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus includes a pour chamber with a dam and vent system, combined with a density timer, which helps regulate the flow rate and provides visual dosing indicia for precise dispensing, ensuring a steady and controlled release of liquid product.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the container dispenses liquid product through an open end or spout, then the dispensing process is simple, but the flow rate is variable and air interference causes inconsistent volume measurement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedispensing simplicityVSAvoidvolume measurement accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary measuring chamber between the container and the dispensing point. This chamber contains a float valve mechanism that mediates the liquid flow, converting variable flow rates into a controlled, measurable dispensing process. The float valve acts as an intermediary that senses liquid level and regulates flow accordingly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces simple gravity-based pouring with a mechanical float valve control system. The float valve uses buoyancy forces and mechanical linkages to automatically regulate flow rate based on liquid level, substituting uncontrolled mechanical pouring with a self-regulating mechanical system that ensures consistent dispensing volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Stress or pressure

If air enters the container to replace dispensed liquid product, then the container remains pressurized, but air interference causes irregular liquid flow

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontainer pressureVSAvoidliquid flow stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stress or pressureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the container system into separate functional zones: a measuring chamber for volume control, a float valve mechanism for flow regulation, and a dispensing outlet. This segmentation allows the air-liquid interaction to be managed independently in the measuring chamber while maintaining stable liquid flow through the float valve-controlled dispensing path.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the dispensing system by introducing a float valve that responds to liquid level changes. As liquid level decreases, the float descends and opens the valve to increase flow rate, compensating for air interference and maintaining stable liquid flow throughout the dispensing process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the liquid product flows through constrictions and multiple pathways, then the dispensing system is flexible, but the flow dynamics become complicated and measurement becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflow path flexibilityVSAvoidflow dynamics complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the flow control function from the complex multi-pathway dispensing system and concentrates it into a single float valve mechanism within the measuring chamber. This isolation simplifies the flow dynamics by removing unnecessary constrictions and pathways, allowing for straightforward volume measurement while maintaining dispensing flexibility through the adjustable float valve.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 a consistent and controlled dispensing of liquid products, reducing the risk of under or over-dosing, thereby enhancing user satisfaction and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a density timer engaged with said pour chamber, said density timer comprising: a reservoir containing a timing liquid (405) having a first density and a timing element having a second density, wherein said second density differs from said first density, said timing element is movable through said timing liquid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDensity difference: Density Gradient

Implementation Method 2

a dam engaged with said pour chamber wall and positioned between said inlet end and said spout, wherein said open cross sectional area is reduced where said dam is positioned as compared to a position immediately upstream of said dam, and wherein said dam partially obstructs said spout entrance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFlow obstruction:

Implementation Method 3

air entering the container to replace the liquid product dispensed may result in irregular liquid flow from the container

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAir replacement:

Data Source

PatentUS10698368B2Apparatus and process for dispensing a measured quantity of liquid product

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO

AI summary

An apparatus and process for dispensing a measured quantity of liquid product from a container. The apparatus includes a pour chamber and a density timer. The density timer is engaged with the pour chamber. The density timer includes a reservoir containing a timing liquid and a timing element. The timing element is visible from outside the reservoir. One or more dosing indicia are on or adjacent the reservoir.