Dual-Nozzle Overcap Assembly for Diverging Spray Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional actuation systems with multiple nozzles from the actuating button suffer from warpage or deformation, bad fluid atomization, and complex manufacturing processes, leading to spray path collisions and pooling issues.
Innovation Solution
The overcap assembly features a first and second nozzle with angled exit apertures that diverge in different directions, each with inner and outer cylindrical walls, to ensure proper fluid dispersion and simplify manufacturing through a monolithic design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple nozzles are used in conventional overcap assemblies, then fluid dispensing capability is improved, but nozzle warpage and deformation occur during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by forming the nozzles with rounded, curved geometries rather than sharp angles or flat surfaces. The nozzle outlets are designed with curved flow paths and rounded edges that prevent warpage and deformation while maintaining fluid dispensing capability. This curved design allows the nozzles to flex without warping during actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures in the nozzle design, combining different materials with complementary properties to create nozzles that are both flexible and warpage-resistant. The nozzle assembly incorporates material layers or compositions that provide structural support while allowing the necessary movement during actuation without deforming.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple nozzles are positioned close together, then spray coverage is improved, but spray paths collide and fluid pools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric nozzle configurations where nozzles are positioned and angled to create non-symmetric spray patterns. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that spray paths diverge rather than collide, even when nozzles are positioned close together. The asymmetric design optimizes coverage while preventing fluid pooling at the nozzle base.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves spray path collision by introducing angular orientation in a different dimension. Instead of only positioning nozzles in the horizontal plane, the design incorporates vertical or angular components to the nozzle orientation, creating three-dimensional spray paths that avoid interference while maintaining close spacing for comprehensive coverage.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional nozzle designs are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but complex molding operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the nozzle assembly into separable components or modular sections that can be manufactured independently using simpler processes. This segmentation allows each component to be molded or fabricated with less complex operations, and then assembled into the complete nozzle assembly, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining design functionality.
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 solution provides stable and efficient fluid dispersion without nozzle deformation, reduces manufacturing complexity, and enhances atomization by directing fluids in diverging paths, improving user experience and product consistency.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure differential between the container interior and the atmosphere forces the contents of the container out through an orifice of the valve stem
Data Source
AI summary
An overcap assembly includes an actuating button attached to and surrounded by the body. The actuating button has a fluid passageway therein, and the fluid passageway is configured to receive a fluid when the actuating button is depressed. The overcap assembly further includes a first nozzle and a second nozzle. The first nozzle extends from the actuating button and is in fluid communication with the fluid passageway. The first nozzle includes a first exit aperture. The second nozzle extends from the actuating button and is positioned below the first nozzle. The second nozzle is in fluid communication with the fluid passageway. The second nozzle includes a second exit aperture angled differently than the first exit aperture. The first nozzle and the second nozzle each comprise an inner cylindrical wall and an outer cylindrical wall surrounding and spaced apart from the inner cylindrical wall.