Testing Device for Dropper Dispensers with Downward Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing testing devices are not well-suited to examine drop dispensers, particularly those with downward-oriented discharge openings, as they lack the capability to actuate and position these dispensers in a reproducible manner, which is essential for evaluating their discharge behavior effectively.

Innovation Solution

A testing device designed to receive and actuate drop dispensers with downward-oriented discharge openings, featuring a receiving device that allows for adjustable positioning and an actuating device with movable actuators that simulate human actuation, enabling examination of drop dispensers in various orientations and facilitating the removal of residual drops.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing testing devices are used to examine dropper dispensers, then general dispenser examination is possible, but the devices cannot reproducibly position and actuate dropper dispensers with downward-oriented discharge openings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereproducible positioning and actuationVSAvoidcompatibility with downward-oriented discharge openings
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The receiving device incorporates a swiveling mechanism that allows the dropper dispenser to be positioned at adjustable angles, enabling the discharge opening to be oriented downward while maintaining reproducible positioning. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by adapting the fixed testing device to accommodate variable dispenser orientations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The testing device is designed with a universal receiving device that can accommodate different types of dispensers, including dropper dispensers with downward-oriented discharge openings. The actuating device is configured to work with multiple dispenser mechanisms, making the testing device versatile enough to examine various dispenser types while maintaining reliable and reproducible testing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If dropper dispensers are positioned with downward-oriented discharge openings for examination, then discharge behavior can be evaluated, but the device complexity increases due to specialized receiving and actuating mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedischarge behavior evaluationVSAvoidspecialized receiving and actuating mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The testing device is divided into separate functional modules: a base unit, a swiveling receiving device, and an actuating device. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity. The receiving device handles positioning, the actuating device handles actuation, and the base unit provides structural support and measurement capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The swiveling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixed base and the dropper dispenser, allowing the dispenser to be positioned at the desired angle without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms. This intermediary element simplifies the overall device complexity while enabling precise discharge behavior evaluation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If manual examination methods are used for dropper dispensers, then device complexity is minimized, but measurement precision and reproducibility are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting device structureVSAvoiddischarge behavior measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The testing device is designed to be self-actuating through an automated actuating device that can reproduce manual actuation forces and motions. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex manual operation while maintaining measurement precision. The device can automatically position and actuate the dropper dispenser, providing consistent and reproducible results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical actuation is replaced with an automated actuating device that uses controlled mechanical forces to replicate human hand movements. This substitution maintains the simplicity of mechanical operation while significantly improving measurement precision and reproducibility through automated control and consistent force application.

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

The testing device allows for reproducible actuation and evaluation of drop dispensers, including those with downward-oriented discharge openings, providing detailed analysis of discharge behavior, droplet formation, and residual drop removal, enhancing the assessment of dispenser performance and usability.

Implementation Method 1

a receiving device (40) designed to hold a dropper dispenser (100) with its dispensing opening (102) facing downwards

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Implementation Method 2

an actuating device (90, 40, 48) designed for the mechanical actuation of the dropper dispenser (100)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

liquid from its reservoir is directed to this droplet-forming surface, where it accumulates until the droplet detaches from the dispenser due to its own weight

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentEP2674224B1Testing device for a liquid dispenser
Publication Date: 2019.07.03 APTAR RADOLFZELL
  • EP2674224B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2674224B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2674224B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The test device (10) has a base (20) for stationary placement of the test device. A receiving device (40) receives a liquid dispenser (100). An actuation device mechanically actuates the liquid dispenser received in the receiving device. The receiving device and the actuation device are configured and arranged such that the drop dispenser is received and actuated in a position where a discharge opening of the drop dispenser faces downwards.