Fill Cap with Shut-Off Valve for Automatic Overfill Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing caps for liquid containers do not effectively prevent overfilling and spillage during the filling process, requiring manual monitoring to avoid overflow or dislodgement of the liquid source.
Innovation Solution
A fill cap with a cap body, a well, and a non-venting center hole, which includes a shut-off valve and a quick connect adapter, allowing for controlled filling without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a traditional cap is used for filling liquid containers, then the cap structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the container requires manual monitoring to prevent overfilling and spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The fill cap incorporates a shut-off valve mechanism that is pre-configured to automatically stop liquid flow when the container reaches a predetermined fill level. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual monitoring during the filling process, as the cap proactively prevents overfilling before it occurs by having the shut-off mechanism ready and positioned to activate at the appropriate moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fill cap system performs the monitoring and shut-off function autonomously without requiring external human intervention. The cap itself serves the dual purpose of sealing the container and automatically controlling the filling process through its integrated shut-off valve, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for separate monitoring equipment or personnel.
2Productivity
If manual monitoring is used during filling to prevent overfilling, then the cap structure remains simple, but productivity decreases due to required human presence
Solution Approach 1:
The shut-off valve is pre-positioned and pre-configured within the cap structure to activate automatically at the predetermined fill level. This preliminary setup allows the filling operation to proceed without interruption or manual intervention, maintaining continuous productivity while the cap autonomously manages the shut-off action when the appropriate level is reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The fill cap autonomously performs the entire filling control function, including monitoring liquid level and executing shut-off when needed. This self-service capability eliminates the need for operators to remain present during filling operations, allowing them to perform other tasks and significantly improving overall productivity without compromising filling control.
3Reliability
If a fill cap with shut-off valve is used, then overfilling is automatically prevented, but the cap requires precise manufacturing to ensure proper valve function
Solution Approach 1:
The fill cap is designed as an integrated assembly where the shut-off valve mechanism is incorporated as part of the cap structure itself rather than as a separate component. This segmentation approach allows the valve to be manufactured and tested as a unit with the cap, ensuring proper fit and function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The valve protrusion and receptacle are formed as integral features, reducing assembly steps and potential sources of error.
Solution Approach 2:
The shut-off valve mechanism is merged with the cap body to form a unified component. The valve protrusion extending from the cap and the corresponding receptacle are designed as integrated features, ensuring precise alignment and function. This merging eliminates the need for separate assembly of the valve and cap, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable shut-off functionality through the unified 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 fill cap prevents overfilling and spillage by automatically stopping the water flow when the container reaches a predetermined level, ensuring safe and efficient filling operations.
Implementation Method 1
The shut-off valve can comprise a float valve
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology includes a fill cap comprising a cap body including a well formed within said cap body, and a non-venting center hole positioned at the center of the cap body.