Gel Applicator Plunger Cap Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gel composition applicators for toilet bowls require complex interlocking mechanisms for plunger and cap storage, leading to potential misplacement and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A separate hollow plunger with a cross-section matching the applicator body, integrated with the cap for simplified storage and use, eliminating the need for additional interlocking features and allowing for dual or multi-composition dispensing through partitioned compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If interlocking mechanisms are added to connect plunger and cap, then the plunger can be stored securely, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger is integrated with the cap as a single unit, eliminating the need for separate interlocking mechanisms. The plunger forms part of the cap structure itself, so when the cap is fitted onto the hollow body, the plunger is automatically positioned and stored correctly without requiring additional connection features.
2Reliability
If interlocking mechanisms are added to connect plunger and cap, then the plunger can be stored securely, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger and cap are formed as a single integrated component, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This integration eliminates the need for separate interlocking features and simplifies the manufacturing process while ensuring the plunger is always stored with the cap.
3Strength
If the plunger is made as a solid structure, then strength and rigidity are improved, but material usage increases and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger is designed with a hollow cross-section that matches the interior of the hollow body, providing structural strength only where needed for pushing the piston while minimizing material usage. The hollow form reduces weight and material consumption while maintaining adequate rigidity to fulfill the plunger's function.
4Loss of substance
If the plunger cross-section is matched to the hollow body interior, then material economy is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger is designed with a hollow cross-section that matches the interior of the hollow body, providing structural strength only where needed for pushing the piston while minimizing material usage. The hollow form reduces weight and material consumption while maintaining adequate rigidity to fulfill the plunger's function.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An applicator for a gel composition comprises an elongate hollow body (10) having a first open end from which the composition is to be dispensed and an opposing second end. A piston (21) is slidingly mounted inside the body. A plunger (20) adapted to be fitted into the body from the second end to push the piston (21) along the body (10) and thereby dispense the composition from the first end is connected to a cap (12) which is removably fitted onto the first end of the body. When the cap (12) is fitted onto the body in normal manner the plunger (20) extends side-by-side with the body (10) but when the cap is removed it is available for use as just mentioned. In preferred embodiments the hollow body (10) is divided lengthwise into two (or more) compartments by a partition with a respective piston (21, 22) in each compartment and the plunger (20) has a slot formation (see Figures 1 and 3) configured to locate over the partition so that when the plunger is inserted into the second end of the hollow body and pressed against the respective pistons, contents of both compartments are dispensed at the same time.