Flexible Dispenser Mounting With Releasable Multi-Orientation Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hand hygiene product dispensers face challenges in being conveniently mounted in various environments due to the diversity of mounting locations, leading to difficulties in ensuring easy and accessible hand washing compliance, particularly in healthcare and food service settings.
Innovation Solution
A flexible product dispenser mounting system that includes a dispenser holder with a releasable connection mechanism, allowing attachment to various support objects in multiple orientations, and an optional sensor system to track dispenser actuations for compliance monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mounting system is used for hand hygiene dispensers, then the mounting structure is simple, but the dispenser cannot be mounted in multiple orientations or locations
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: a mounting bracket for attachment to surfaces, a dispenser holder for securing the dispenser, and a releasable connection mechanism linking them. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while providing overall mounting flexibility in multiple orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The releasable connection mechanism incorporates movable parts including a latch that can transition between locked and unlocked positions, and a cam member that rotates to engage or disengage the connection. This dynamic design enables easy reconfiguration of mounting orientation and location without permanent installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a releasable connection mechanism is used to allow multiple orientations, then mounting versatility is improved, but the connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member is designed with a cam surface that progressively engages the latch, creating a mechanical advantage that ensures positive locking before full engagement is achieved. This pre-cushioning design prevents accidental disengagement while maintaining the ability to release when intentionally actuated.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member acts as an intermediary between the mounting bracket and dispenser holder, translating rotational motion into linear locking motion that secures the connection. This intermediary mechanism provides reliable mechanical engagement while preserving the releasable nature of the connection through controlled cam rotation.
3Extent of automation
If traditional mounting methods are used, then the mounting structure is simple, but compliance monitoring and data collection capabilities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system integrates multiple functions into a unified structure: mechanical mounting, compliance sensing through sensors positioned in the holder, and data collection capabilities. This multi-functional design allows the same component to serve both structural and monitoring purposes, adding automation capability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible mounting system for a chemical product dispenser includes a dispenser holder and at least one mounting apparatus. The dispenser holder may be attached to the mounting apparatus by means of a releasable connection mechanism. The releasable connection mechanism may provide for attachment of the dispenser holder to the mounting apparatus in multiple orientations. In one example, the mounting apparatus includes a mounting bracket configured for mounting to a support object, such as a wall, table, counter top, cabinet, shelf, cart etc. In another example, the mounting apparatus includes a mounting clamp configured for mounting to ledges, poles, bedrails, handles, etc.