Dual-Chamber Capsule with Integrated Piston for Single-Plunger Applicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dental capsule applicators for mixing two-component materials, such as paste/paste capsules, are not compatible with existing compule or liquid/powder capsule applicators due to their design requiring a single plunger, limiting the use of paste materials and necessitating separate applicators for different mixing ratios.
Innovation Solution
A capsule design featuring two component chambers with separate pistons that can be pushed forward by a single plunger, allowing compatibility with existing single-plunger applicators and enabling the use of various paste materials without requiring new applicators or standard mixing ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a capsule design with two separate pistons is used, then compatibility with existing single-plunger applicators is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate pistons into a single integrated piston assembly that can simultaneously push both components out of their respective chambers. This merging approach maintains compatibility with existing single-plunger applicators while internally coordinating the movement of both components, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule design creates a universal interface that works with existing single-plunger applicators through a common pushing surface. The piston assembly is designed to distribute the single plunger's force to both components simultaneously, enabling one applicator design to serve multiple capsule types and material combinations, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If paste materials are used instead of liquid/powder or one-component materials, then the range of applicable materials is expanded, but the mixing ratio control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements separate dedicated chambers for each paste component with individually controlled piston movement. Each chamber is optimized for its specific material properties, and the pistons can be independently adjusted to deliver precise volumes of each component. This local control mechanism ensures accurate mixing ratios even when working with viscous paste materials that have different flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule design allows for adjustable parameters including piston travel distance, chamber volumes, and outlet configurations. These parameters can be modified to accommodate different paste viscosities and required mixing ratios, enabling precise control over the dispensing process while maintaining versatility across different material types.
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
Enables the use of two-component paste materials with existing single-plunger applicators, reducing production costs and expanding the range of applicable materials beyond two-component systems, while maintaining flexibility in mixing ratios.
Implementation Method 1
a piston which at least with its front end sits in the cartridge, lies with its rear end outside the component chambers and, when it is pushed forwards, presses the two components out of their component chambers
Data Source
AI summary
Capsule (10) for two or more components of a material which are to be mixed together, comprising a cartridge (11) comprising an outlet (12), a first component chamber (13) for containing a first component, and a second component chamber (14) for containing a second component, the two chambers (13, 14) opening into the outlet (12); and a piston (15) which at least with its front end sits in the cartridge (11), lies with its rear end outside the component chambers (13, 14) and, when it is pushed forwards, presses the two components out of their component chambers (13, 14).