Dispensing Device Assembly via Downstream Airflow Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling dispensing devices in protected workspaces are complex and costly due to the need for handling devices to be positioned above the assembly area, disrupting air flow and requiring additional space, which complicates the maintenance of clean and controlled environments.
Innovation Solution
The method involves positioning the first device part downstream of the second device part within the air flow, allowing connection without disturbing the air flow and reducing turbulence, enabling simpler and cost-effective assembly while maintaining cleanliness and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If handling devices are positioned above the assembly area to connect device parts, then the assembly process can be performed, but the air flow is disrupted and working space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional assembly approach by connecting the first device part to the downstream side of the second device part, rather than to the upstream side. This reversal allows handling devices to be positioned below the assembly area instead of above it, eliminating air flow disruption while maintaining assembly functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spatial dimension of the assembly operation by moving the connection point from the upstream side (top) to the downstream side (bottom) of the second device part. This dimensional change repositions the handling devices from the upper working space to the lower working space, freeing up the upper air flow path
2Ease of operation
If handling devices are positioned above the assembly area, then device parts can be connected, but sufficient working space above the assembly position is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the assembly approach by connecting to the downstream side rather than the upstream side, which repositions the handling devices from the upper working space to the lower working space, thereby eliminating the requirement for large working space above the assembly position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the lower working space dimension instead of the upper working space dimension for the assembly operation. By moving the connection operation to the downstream side, the handling devices operate in the previously underutilized lower space, optimizing the overall workspace utilization
3Object-affected harmful factors
If air flow is maintained upstream of the assembly position, then particle contamination is prevented, but the air flow becomes complex and cost-intensive to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connection operation from the upstream air flow path and relocates it to the downstream side of the second device part. This extraction removes the source of air flow disruption from the critical upstream region, allowing simpler and less costly air flow maintenance while still preventing particle contamination
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the assembly approach to connect to the downstream side, the patent eliminates the need for complex air flow corrections that would be required if handling devices operated in the upstream region. The air flow can now be maintained in a simpler, more cost-effective manner
4Productivity
If device parts are connected in the air flow upstream of the second device part, then assembly can proceed, but air turbulence increases and particle introduction risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the assembly sequence by connecting the first device part to the downstream side of the second device part rather than the upstream side. This reversal moves the assembly operation out of the turbulent upstream air flow region and into the calmer downstream region, reducing particle introduction risk while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the second device part upstream first, allowing it to be carried by the air flow into position, and then connects the first device part to its downstream side. This preliminary positioning of the second device part enables subsequent connection in a lower turbulence zone
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 approach reduces particle entry into the container, simplifies the assembly process, and allows for higher production volumes of medical devices like safety syringes by maintaining defined air flow conditions and optimizing workspace usage.
Implementation Method 1
An air flow can, in particular, be a displacement flow (laminar) and/or a mixed flow (turbulent)
Implementation Method 2
An air flow can, in particular, be a displacement flow (laminar) and/or a mixed flow (turbulent)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention generally proposes a method for assembling a dispensing device (2) of a filled container (3) in a preferably protected working space (5), wherein the dispensing device (2) is assembled from at least a first device part (6), in particular an actuator part (7) configured to trigger the dispensing of a container contents from the container (3), and a second device part (9), preferably a filled container body (10), comprising the following method steps: flowing a preferably laminar and/or unidirectional airflow (4) through the working space (5); positioning the first and second device parts (6, 9) in the airflow (4); and connecting the first device part (6) to the second device part (9) downstream of the second device part (9).