Multifunctional dispensing device for dispensing fluid compositions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dispensing methods for cleaning and personal care compositions, such as dishwashing detergent, are either cumbersome, requiring two hands or impractical for single-handed use, especially when needing to carry the dispenser outside the kitchen or bathroom.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing device with a base and a refill that can be connected or disconnected, featuring a first and second dispensing system, allowing for single-handed operation and flexibility in use, with the refill capable of being used independently for direct dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional bottle is used for dispensing cleaning composition, then the bottle can be carried outside the kitchen or wash room and used for direct application, but the dispensing method requires two hands and adds time to the cleaning process
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and a removable refill. The base contains the dispensing mechanism while the refill contains the cleaning composition. This segmentation allows the refill to be easily removed and carried separately, providing portability, while the base remains stationary for automated dispensing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides multiple modes of operation: it can function as an automated wall-mounted dispenser when the refill is connected, or the refill can be removed and used as a portable container for direct application. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt to different usage scenarios.
2Ease of operation
If a wall mount dispenser is used for single-handed dispensing, then ease of use is improved, but the dispenser becomes impractical for home use and aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the dispensing mechanism (base) from the composition container (refill), the system allows the refill to be easily removed and used portably within the home, making it practical for various home use scenarios while maintaining the automated dispensing capability when installed.
3Ease of operation
If a countertop dispenser with sensors is used for single-handed dispensing, then automated dispensing is achieved, but the size and shape make it difficult to carry outside the kitchen or wash room
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the automated dispensing mechanism (base) from the composition container (refill). The compact refill can be easily carried outside the kitchen or wash room when needed, while the base remains stationary for automated dispensing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The refill is extracted as a separate, removable component from the base. This allows the refill to be taken out and used portably in different locations, resolving the limitation of fixed countertop dispensers.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional bottle is used, then portability and direct application capability are maintained, but the dispensing process requires two hands and is physically awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a base with dispensing mechanism and a removable refill. This allows the refill to maintain portability and direct application capability while the base provides automated single-handed dispensing when the refill is connected.
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing device is selectively operable in a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation. The device comprises a base and a refill removably connectable with the base. The base comprises a first dispensing system and a first actuator communicably connected with the first dispensing system. The refill comprises a reservoir having a sidewall and an orifice. The first dispensing system is in fluid communication with the refill in the first mode of operation and the refill is disconnected from the base in the second mode of operation.