Dispensing Package Screw Assembly with Segmented Thread Pitches
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer care product dispensing packages often require multiple actuations to deliver the first dose due to empty space formed during filling, affecting precise dosing and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing package with a screw assembly and movable elevator platform featuring external and internal threads with varying pitches and cross-thread features, allowing for easier initial product dispensing by reducing the number of rotations required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the dispensing package is filled from above, then the filling process is simple and efficient, but an empty space (dead space) is formed in the upper part of the dispensing package
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator platform is positioned at the lowermost position during filling to maximize product capacity. After filling, the platform is automatically or manually raised to eliminate the dead space, preparing the system for optimal dispensing operation before use.
2Ease of operation
If the operating button is operated multiple times to deliver the first dose, then the empty space is overcome, but the consumer experience is degraded and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The elevator platform is pre-positioned at the lowermost position during filling. After filling, it is automatically or manually raised to the operating position before the consumer uses the product, so that the first dose can be dispensed immediately without requiring multiple button operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically raises the elevator platform after filling without requiring consumer intervention. This self-service action eliminates the dead space and prepares the dispensing system for immediate use, improving consumer experience.
3Device complexity
If a single pitch thread is used, then the structure is simple, but the number of rotations required to dispense the first dose is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The thread structure is segmented into two distinct portions: a first portion with a first pitch for normal operation, and a second portion with a second pitch for rapid initial dispensing. This segmentation allows the system to optimize for both speed (first pitch) and simplicity (second pitch).
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the thread structure have different local properties (different pitches). The first pitch portion is located where it engages the elevator platform for normal dosing, while the second pitch portion is located to engage first, enabling rapid initial dispensing only when needed.
4Loss of time
If the second pitch is larger than the first pitch, then the number of rotations is reduced for first dose dispensing, but the manufacturing precision of the thread structure must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The thread structure is divided into two distinct segments with different pitches. The first pitch segment is optimized for normal dosing operations, while the second pitch segment is optimized for rapid initial dispensing. This clear segmentation simplifies manufacturing compared to a continuous variable pitch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread pitch parameter is changed between two discrete values rather than varying continuously. This discrete parameter change approach is easier to manufacture with standard machining processes while still achieving the goal of reduced rotations for first dose dispensing.
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
Facilitates quicker and more accurate delivery of the first dose of consumer care products by minimizing the number of rotations needed to dispense the product, addressing the issue of empty space and ensuring precise dosing.
Implementation Method 1
a screw assembly 330; wherein the screw assembly 330 comprises: a screw base disposed adjacent to the first end 260 and rotatably associated with the one or more jackets (200, 110); a spindle 332 that supports external threads 333
Implementation Method 2
The first external thread portion 335 of the screw assembly 330 can engage with the first internal thread portion 530 of the movable elevator platform 320
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing package comprising one or more jackets, a screw assembly, and a movable elevator platform; the screw assembly comprising a spindle comprising two external thread portions, which allows for a quick first turn.