Fluid Dispenser Connectors and Tubing for Spill-Safe Laundry Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems pose risks of splashing and spills when transferring liquids from large containers to smaller measuring devices, particularly in household and industrial settings, due to the weight and placement of containers, leading to potential irritation and injury.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system comprising connectors that snap onto supply container nozzles, routing tubing to a hand-actuated valve for safe and controlled dispensing, with optional retractable lines for elevated storage to prevent leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If large supply containers are placed on shelves above washing machines, then space utilization is improved, but the risk of splashing and injury increases when dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dispensing system with tubing as an intermediary between the supply container and the washing machine. The tubing allows fluid to be transferred from the elevated supply container without requiring the user to manually handle the container, thereby eliminating the splashing risk while maintaining space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the dispensing function from the storage function. The supply container remains elevated for storage efficiency, while the dispensing operation is separated through tubing and a separate dispensing mechanism, allowing independent optimization of both storage and safety.
2Quantity of substance
If large supply containers are used, then storage efficiency is improved, but the weight makes them difficult to handle for dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the storage function (large container remaining in place) from the dispensing function (small handheld valve). This allows the full storage capacity to be maintained while the dispensing operation becomes lightweight and easy to handle through the separate valve mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Tubing serves as an intermediary that connects the heavy supply container to the lightweight handheld valve, allowing the user to operate the dispensing system without ever handling the large, heavy container itself.
3Device complexity
If manual pouring from large containers is used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but the risk of spills and hazardous material exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing system acts as a controlled intermediary that replaces uncontrolled manual pouring. This maintains relative simplicity while providing controlled fluid transfer that eliminates spills and hazardous exposure risks associated with manual handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the fluid to be transferred automatically through the tubing when the valve is actuated, eliminating the need for manual pouring operations that create spill risks.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If containers are lowered below eye level for dispensing, then splashing risk is reduced, but the containers become too heavy to lower frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing serves as a flexible intermediary that allows the supply container to remain in its elevated position while the dispensing valve can be positioned at any convenient height, eliminating the need to physically move the heavy container.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces dynamic positioning through the flexible tubing and movable valve, allowing the dispensing point to be dynamically adjusted without moving the static, heavy supply container.
Data Source
AI summary
A novel fluid dispenser system is described. The system is comprised of a plurality of connectors that each connect to one a plurality of fluid supply containers and, once connected, hold a valve on the supply container in an opened position. The connectors are connected, using flexible tubing, to a valve manifold that selectively dispenses fluid from each of the supply containers. The system provides a means of selectively and safely delivering fluid from large and ungainly supply containers without the need for lifting or otherwise manipulating the supply container itself. The system is especially useful in delivering laundry detergent and other additives from supply containers to a washing machine in a home use application.