Flip-Top Closure Spout With Segmented Dispensing Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closures do not provide users with a user-friendly method to easily dispense different amounts of fluid, often resulting in inefficient and uncontrolled dispensing of liquids or powdered products.
Innovation Solution
A closure system with a flip-top lid and a spout featuring two separate dispensing openings of different sizes and a vent opening, arranged to allow controlled dispensing by tilting the container, ensuring a laminar flow and easy selection of dispensing amounts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single dispensing opening is provided in the closure, then the structure is simple, but the user cannot easily control the amount of fluid dispensed
Solution Approach 1:
The spout is segmented into multiple separate dispensing openings (first dispensing opening and second dispensing opening) with different sizes. This allows the user to select different openings based on the desired dispensing amount, transforming a single-function opening into a multi-functional system that provides control over dispensing quantity without requiring complex external mechanisms.
2Productivity
If a larger dispensing opening is used, then high amount of fluid can be dispensed quickly, but turbulence increases and laminar flow is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the spout are assigned different qualities through the provision of dispensing openings with different sizes. The first dispensing opening is designed with specific dimensions optimized for high-speed dispensing, while the second dispensing opening is designed with different dimensions optimized for maintaining laminar flow. This local differentiation allows the system to achieve both high productivity and controlled flow characteristics depending on which opening is used.
3Reliability
If the vent opening is positioned close to the dispensing openings, then air can enter the container easily, but it may interfere with the dispensing flow
Solution Approach 1:
The vent opening is positioned in a spatial arrangement that is distinct from the dispensing openings, utilizing the three-dimensional space within the spout structure. By arranging the vent opening at a different location and orientation relative to the dispensing openings, the system allows air to enter the container through the vent while preventing interference with the fluid flow through the dispensing openings, effectively separating the gas and liquid flow paths in space.
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 system allows for precise control over fluid dispensing, reducing turbulence and enabling users to select the appropriate opening for desired dispensing quantities, maintaining a laminar flow even with incorrect handling, while minimizing material usage and wear on components.
Implementation Method 1
enabling a controlled entry of air through the vent hole and into the container during the dispensing... enabling users to select the appropriate opening for desired dispensing quantities, maintaining a laminar flow
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a closure for a container, wherein the closure comprises a base element and a flip-top lid attached to said base element by a hinge, such that the flip-top lid can be moved between an opened and a closed position, wherein said closure comprises a spout for dispensing a fluid material. Said spout has a first dispensing opening and a second dispensing opening, whereas said spout additionally comprises a vent opening. The present invention also relates to a system with a container and such a closure, wherein said closure is directly or indirectly attached or attachable to said container.