Flexible Dispensing Partition for Compact Wipe Container Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dispensing containers for personal care products, such as wet wipes, are often bulky and unwieldy due to the need for a static dispensing partition that requires a significant distance between the wipe stack and the dispensing aperture, leading to issues with the lid closing properly and wipes being pushed back into the container.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing container with a flexible dispensing partition made from a rubber-like material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, that moves from a non-dispensing to a dispensing position when a wipe is removed, allowing the lid to easily close and preventing wipes from being pushed back into the container, while reducing the overall size of the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a static dispensing partition is used, then wipes can be dispensed, but the container becomes bulky and requires significant head space
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing partition is made flexible instead of static, allowing it to dynamically change shape during wipe dispensing. The partition flexes outward to accommodate the leading wipe as it exits, then returns to its original position, eliminating the need for excessive head space while maintaining proper wipe dispensing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing partition is constructed from flexible material that can deform and return to its original shape. This flexibility allows the partition to adapt to the dispensing process without requiring a large fixed space, thereby reducing overall container volume while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Volume of moving object
If a dispensing partition is positioned close to the wipe stack, then container size is reduced, but the lid cannot close properly
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible dispensing partition dynamically adjusts its position and shape during the lid closure process. When the lid is closed, the partition flexes to accommodate the leading wipe, preventing the wipe from interfering with lid closure while maintaining a compact container design.
3Volume of moving object
If a dispensing partition is positioned close to the wipe stack, then container size is reduced, but wipes are pushed back into the container
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible partition responds to the forces generated during wipe removal by flexing outward, creating temporary space for the leading wipe to exit without being pushed back. This dynamic response maintains wipe accessibility while enabling a compact container 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 flexible dispensing partition facilitates a compact design, ensures easy lid closure, and maintains wipes within reach, preventing them from being pushed back into the container, thus enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The dispensing partition comprises a flexible material having an aperture defined therein through which the wipes are individually removable. The dispensing partition is configured to move from a first position to a second position when one of the wipes is removed from the container through the aperture.
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing container for dispensable wipes generally comprises a base at least partially defining an internal compartment for storing the wipes and a dispensing partition connected to the base. The dispensing partition comprises a flexible material having an aperture defined therein through which the wipes are individually removable. The dispensing partition is configured to move from a first position to a second position when one of the wipes is removed from the container through the aperture. The dispensing partition is biased towards the first position, and is at least partially inverted from the first position when in the second position.