Fluid Ejection Device With Segmented Control Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid-ejection devices for washing surfaces in motor vehicles are inefficient and complex, often failing to reach all areas due to external obstructions and requiring costly, precise designs for each application.

Innovation Solution

A fluid-ejection device with a control member that allows for adjustable strokes and a nozzle configuration to control fluid discharge, enabling efficient washing of various surfaces by varying the position of the control member and nozzle, and using a spring mechanism to oppose movement, allowing for a broad range of applications with reduced complexity and cost.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If telescopic devices with hollow cylinders and pistons are used to extend the nozzle, then the washing device can reach more areas, but the device becomes complex and expensive to manufacture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewashing coverage areaVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into a fixed member and a movable member that can independently control fluid discharge. The control member is segmented into sections that can be selectively positioned to control fluid flow to different areas, allowing comprehensive washing coverage without requiring a complex telescopic structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control member serves multiple functions: it controls fluid discharge timing, directs fluid to different areas, and can be positioned in various configurations. This multi-functionality replaces the need for complex telescopic mechanisms while achieving the same washing coverage enhancement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If the stroke of the nozzle is accurately designed for each specific condition, then the washing efficiency is improved, but the design cost and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewashing efficiencyVSAvoiddesign cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of designing fixed nozzles with predetermined strokes for each application, the invention uses a dynamic control member that can be positioned in different configurations. This allows a single device design to adapt to various washing conditions and surface types, maintaining high washing efficiency while reducing design costs through standardization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control member can be positioned at different locations and orientations to change the effective discharge parameters. This flexibility allows the same nozzle to achieve optimal washing performance for different surfaces by simply repositioning the control member rather than redesigning the entire nozzle system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 device provides a uniform and efficient fluid stream that can reach a wide range of areas without the need for complex designs, allowing for precise control of fluid ejection and reducing material costs, while maintaining effective washing performance.

Implementation Method 1

use a spring mechanism to oppose movement

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring mechanism: Spring

Implementation Method 2

the second member is arranged such that it can be moved relative to the first member when it is driven by a fluid that is supplied by the above mentioned source of pressurized fluid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid pressure: Pressure Increase

Data Source

PatentUS10532368B2Fluid ejection device
Publication Date: 2020.01.14 FICO TRANSPAR
  • US10532368B2 patent drawing
  • US10532368B2 patent drawing
  • US10532368B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fluid-ejection device includes a first member having a fluid inlet; a second member that can be moved relative to the first member; and a control member arranged to be at least in a first condition, in which the control member is at least substantially inside the second member during a first stroke of the second member in which fluid flow through the second member and discharge is prevented; and a second condition, in which the control member is at least substantially outside the second member during a second stroke of the second member, allowing fluid flow through the second member and discharge. A seal member has a first surface engaged with the first member, a second surface engaged with the second member, and a third surface arranged to be engaged with the control member in the first condition.