Flexible Bag Spout With Dual Lead Thread Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spout assemblies for flexible bags often loosen over time due to vibration, creep, and deformation, particularly when coupled with different types of threaded adapters, leading to unreliable connections during the dispensing of flowable materials.
Innovation Solution
A spout assembly with a dual lead thread configuration featuring opposing threadforms of different lengths and pitches, along with a valve assembly comprising a poppet and spring member, ensures secure engagement with various dispensing connectors by distributing load points differently across the threads, minimizing loosening and enhancing retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single spout is designed to couple with multiple different adapters, then versatility is improved, but connection reliability deteriorates due to vibration, creep, and deformation causing loosening over time
Solution Approach 1:
The spout connection is divided into two independent threaded sections: an internal thread and an external thread. This segmentation allows each thread to perform a specific function - the internal thread provides the primary sealing connection while the external thread provides structural support and alignment, together resolving the reliability issue while maintaining versatility across different adapter types
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs two different thread pitches (first pitch and second pitch) for the internal and external threads respectively. This parameter change ensures that the two threads engage at different rates and distribute mechanical stresses differently, preventing the creep and deformation that cause loosening in single-thread designs, thereby maintaining reliable connections across multiple adapter configurations
2Ease of operation
If threaded connections are used for spout assemblies, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to loosening from vibration and creep over time
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into two threaded components that work together: the internal thread within the spout and the external thread on the adapter. This segmentation distributes the mechanical loads from vibration and creep across two separate engagement points, preventing the loosening that occurs in single-threaded systems while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-thread configuration acts as a preemptive measure against vibration and creep-induced loosening. By designing the connection with two independently engaged threads before operation begins, the system pre-distributes stress and prevents the progressive loosening that would otherwise occur during use, thereby maintaining reliability without complicating operation
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 dual thread configuration and valve assembly design provide enhanced resistance to loosening and interference, ensuring a secure and reliable connection with various dispensing couplings, maintaining the pre-load holding force even under vibrational loads, and facilitating easy engagement with different connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member having a central body member, an outer circumferential ring member and a biasing member extending therebetween
Data Source
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AI summary
A spout for use with a flexible bag and a flexible bag having a spout. The spout includes a threadform that extends about the outer surface. The threadform includes opposing threadforms that are of different configurations. Additionally, the insert member includes a poppet and a spring member to maintain the poppet in a configuration that precludes the passage of fluid therethrough.