Dual-Component Foam Dispenser That Prevents Particle Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensers fail to effectively dispense fluids with particulate matter or high viscosity, as these substances clog foam-inducing devices and cannot be kept separate until use, limiting the production of foamed products.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that extrudes a foaming fluid through a porous member while simultaneously dispensing a second flowable material, such as particulate matter, without passing it through the porous member, allowing for the creation of a final product comprising foam and the second material, using a single piston member within a piston chamber to manage both fluids and air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If particulate matter is incorporated in the fluid ready for use, then the fluid can be dispensed conveniently, but the particles settle out providing inconsistencies in composition and reduced shelf life
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the cleaning system into two separate components: a liquid cleaner and particulate matter (grit), storing them in separate chambers. This segmentation prevents the particles from settling in the liquid while maintaining composition consistency, as the components are only combined at the point of dispensing through the foam-producing mechanism.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a gelling agent is included to reduce settling, then particle settling is reduced, but the viscosity of the fluid increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the particulate matter from the liquid cleaner, removing the need for gelling agents. By separating the components into distinct storage chambers and combining them only during dispensing, the system prevents particle settling without increasing fluid viscosity, maintaining the liquid's original flow properties.
3Productivity
If known foam inducing devices are used with particulate matter, then foam can be produced, but the devices become clogged rendering them inoperative
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the foam production process into two stages: first, the liquid cleaner is foamed separately through a porous member; second, the foamed liquid mixes with particulate matter after the porous member. This prevents particles from contacting and clogging the porous apertures, maintaining device reliability while preserving foam production capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The porous member acts as an intermediary that processes only the liquid cleaner to create foam, while the particulate matter is introduced separately afterward. This intermediary approach protects the porous member from particle clogging while still enabling foam production, as particles never directly contact the porous apertures.
4Productivity
If high viscosity fluids are passed through small apertures, then foam can be produced, but the pressure required is not within normal operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention dynamically adjusts the dispensing process by first creating foam from the liquid cleaner at normal pressures, then introducing the second component (which may be high viscosity or particulate) separately. This dynamic approach allows foam production under normal operating conditions while accommodating high viscosity materials that would otherwise require excessive pressure.
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 separate dispensing of two components, ensuring consistent foam production and preventing clogging, while accommodating high viscosity fluids and particulate matter, thereby extending the shelf life and usability of grit-laden fluids.
Implementation Method 1
Passing the air and liquid mixture through the apertures or pores aids foam production by subjecting the mixture to turbulent flow conditions
Implementation Method 2
pass a mixture of air and liquid through a foam-inducing device which typically is a porous member having small apertures
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for extruding the first fluid capable of foaming through a porous member to produce a first foamed extrudate while simultaneously dispensing a second flowable material preferably containing particulate matter adjacent the first extrudate.