Dual-Coupling Container Neck for Multi-Accessory Fluid Dispensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fluid containers are limited to a single type or size of dispensing accessory, lacking the ability to accommodate multiple dispensing mechanisms and the integration of concentrate delivery, restricting versatility in fluid dispensing options.

Innovation Solution

A container design featuring dual coupling mechanisms, including sets of threads and projections, allows for the attachment of different dispensing accessories and concentrate delivery systems, enabling multiple dispensing modes and fluid-concentrate mixing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single mounting structure is used on the container, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but only one type or size of dispensing accessory can be coupled to the container

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with different dispensing accessoriesVSAvoidnumber of coupling mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The container is designed with multiple coupling mechanisms (first and second coupling mechanisms with different thread configurations) on its neck, enabling it to accommodate various types of dispensing accessories with different connection requirements. This multi-functionality allows a single container to serve multiple purposes with different accessory types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple coupling mechanisms are added to the container neck, then compatibility with different accessories is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to accommodate multiple accessory typesVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling mechanisms are segmented into distinct sets (first set of threads, second set of threads with different configuration) on the container neck. Each set is independently configured to mate with specific accessory types, allowing for modular manufacturing where each coupling set can be produced and verified separately before final assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If a single dispensing accessory is used, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot switch between different dispensing mechanisms or add concentrate delivery

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser flexibility in dispensing optionsVSAvoidnumber of accessory components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows dynamic reconfiguration by enabling users to attach and detach different accessory types (dispensing accessories, concentrate delivery accessories) based on immediate needs. The multiple coupling mechanisms facilitate this dynamic adaptation without requiring permanent modifications to the container structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12569867B2Apparatus for use with multiple coupleable accessories

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 THE CLOROX CO

AI summary

An apparatus to which multiple dispensing accessories having different connections can be coupled. The different connections enable a variety of dispensing or spraying mechanisms to be coupled. Also, an apparatus that can be coupled to both a concentrate delivering accessory and to a fluid dispensing accessory. Such an apparatus allows a user to provide a concentrate to a fluid in a container or bottle via a first or concentrate delivering accessory, and then utilize a second accessory, such as a dispensing or spray head, to dispense the mixture of the fluid and concentrate from the bottle.