Multi-Directional Fluid Dispenser Cap for 360° Surface Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid dispensing devices typically discharge fluid in a single direction, requiring user contortion and rotation to cover large areas, such as a toilet bowl, as they lack the ability to simultaneously direct fluid in multiple directions.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispensing device with a closure body and a deflector surface that generates a spray pattern extending at a deflection angle, allowing fluid to be directed in multiple directions simultaneously by using a rotatable deflector disc or multiple orifices with deflector surfaces, enabling efficient coverage without user contortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a single discharge outlet is used to avoid spraying product onto the user, then user safety is improved, but the ability to cover large areas efficiently deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single discharge outlet is segmented into multiple discharge outlets (first, second, third outlets) arranged in different directions. This allows the fluid to be discharged simultaneously in multiple directions, covering large areas efficiently while preventing spray from reaching the user's hand and arm.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge outlets are arranged in three-dimensional space at different angles and orientations. The first outlet discharges along the cap axis, the second outlet discharges at an angle, and the third outlet provides additional directional coverage, creating a multi-dimensional spray distribution pattern.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple discharge outlets are provided, then coverage area is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a closure, a dispensing mechanism, and a directional control device. The same cap structure that closes the container also houses multiple discharge outlets and controls fluid flow through its positioning relative to the container opening.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple discharge outlets are integrated into a single cap assembly rather than being separate components. The cap combines multiple outlet functions, control mechanisms, and structural support into one unified component that attaches to the container.
3Device complexity
If a single direction discharge is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but user ergonomics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The single discharge direction is segmented into multiple discharge directions (first, second, third outlets at different angles). This eliminates the need for users to rotate their hand and arm to cover different areas, as the multi-directional outlets provide comprehensive coverage from a single stationary position.
4Speed
If the cap is always open for dispensing, then dispensing speed is improved, but fluid loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is designed to be periodically opened and closed based on dispensing needs. The cap can be rotated to an open position for rapid dispensing when coverage is needed, then closed to prevent evaporation and fluid loss when dispensing is complete, creating a periodic open-closed cycle.
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
Enables efficient and ergonomic dispensing of fluid in multiple directions, reducing user effort and ensuring comprehensive coverage of surfaces like toilet bowls with a 360° spray pattern without the need for continuous rotation or awkward positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The deflector surface is configured to generate a spray pattern extending at a deflection angle with respect to the orifice axis, the spray pattern extending in at least two directions simultaneously
Implementation Method 2
The deflector surface is formed on a deflector disc that is rotatably coupled to the deflector
Implementation Method 3
The cap assembly is configured to permit fluid flow through the discharge path when the cap is in the open position and prevent fluid flow through the discharge path when the cap is in the closed position
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid dispensing device is provided that is capable of discharging fluid in multiple different directions simultaneously. The device may include a deflector which redirects an initial stream of fluid from the container into multiple sub-streams that are oriented in different directions. The device may create a spray pattern that substantially covers an entire 360 degree area surrounding the device, which may be advantageous for certain applications such as toilet bowl cleaner dispensers. A control valve or flow restrictor may be provided for preventing unintended discharge of fluid when the container is inverted.