Dispensing closure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing closures for liquids often suffer from leakage and uneven dispensing rates, as they typically have a single dispensing pathway and lack mechanisms to control the flow rate effectively.
Innovation Solution
A two-way dispenser closure with pivotable top components and cylindrical tubes of varying cross-sections, allowing for two distinct dispensing pathways with different flow rates, which are sealed by cylindrical plugs and sleeves to prevent leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single dispensing pathway is used, then the closure structure is simple, but the dispensing rate cannot be controlled effectively and leakage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is divided into multiple independent dispensing pathways (first and second pathways) with separate control mechanisms. Each pathway has its own opening and flow control features, allowing independent operation and precise control of dispensing rates without requiring a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure incorporates movable components such as flappers or valves that can dynamically open or close each dispensing pathway. This dynamic control allows the system to prevent leakage when pathways are closed while enabling controlled dispensing when opened, resolving the contradiction between reliability and structural simplicity.
2Productivity
If multiple dispensing pathways are added, then dispensing rate control is improved, but the risk of leakage and product exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the dispensing system into separate pathways with individual control mechanisms, each pathway can be independently managed. This segmentation allows for precise control of dispensing rates through different pathway configurations while reducing leakage risk through isolated sealing zones for each pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses intermediary components such as flappers, valves, or diaphragms positioned at each dispensing pathway opening. These intermediaries act as mediators between the internal product reservoir and external environment, enabling controlled product flow while maintaining reliable sealing to prevent leakage and product exposure.
3Productivity
If pathways with different cross-sections are used, then dispensing rates vary effectively, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Different cross-sectional dimensions are assigned to different dispensing pathways based on their specific functional requirements. The first pathway may have a larger cross-section for higher flow rates while the second pathway has a smaller cross-section for lower flow rates. This local quality differentiation allows effective dispensing rate control without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing across all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls dispensing rates by changing geometric parameters (cross-sectional area) of different pathways rather than requiring precise control of material properties or operational parameters. This approach to parameter changes simplifies manufacturing requirements while achieving the desired variation in dispensing rates through straightforward dimensional design.
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 closure effectively controls dispensing rates by providing two pathways with different cross-sectional areas, reducing leakage and ensuring consistent dispensing, allowing for efficient use of contents, especially in containers like bottles for cosmetics and shampoos.
Implementation Method 1
a cylindrical plug extending from the top plate being sized to sealingly engage the inner surface of the associated cylindrical tube of the cap, a cylindrical sleeve extending from the top plate being sized to sealingly engage the outer surface of the associated cylindrical tube of the cap
Data Source
AI summary
A closure for a container having an opening for dispensing fluids contained therein. The closure includes a cap and a pivotable top component moveable between a closed and two opened positions. A pair of dispensing openings are in fluid communication with the associated container. A second dispensing opening and its associated channel has a larger cross section, perpendicular to a flow direction, than a first dispensing opening and its associated channel.