Integrally Molded Applicator Tip Dispenser Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid dispensers with separate applicator components are difficult and costly to assemble, with multiple weld seams and joints that are susceptible to failure, and lack an integrated applicator solution.
Innovation Solution
A dispenser design featuring a reservoir, a delivery tube with an applicator element and a removable seal, where the applicator tip is integrally formed with a base and includes fingers extending from the delivery tube, allowing for a single-piece construction that eliminates the need for separate assembly and reduces manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate applicator components are used, then the applicator can be attached to the ampule or nozzle, but the assembly becomes difficult and costly with multiple weld seams and joints susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is integrated directly into the ampule structure as a single molded piece, eliminating separate applicator components. The ampule includes an extended nozzle with an opening at the end, and the applicator is formed as part of the same blow-molded structure, removing the need for separate attachment and assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The ampule structure serves multiple functions: it stores the liquid, provides the extended nozzle for delivery, and incorporates the applicator element directly. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate applicator components and simplifies the overall structure.
2Reliability
If multiple plastic components are used for the applicator, then the applicator can be assembled, but manufacturing costs increase and multiple weld seams and joints are created that are susceptible to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The entire applicator assembly is formed as a single blow-molded plastic component integrated with the ampule. This eliminates multiple weld seams and joints between separate plastic components, creating a structure with no weak points from assembly interfaces while reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If an applicator is provided as a separate element, then the applicator can be affixed to the ampule, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is formed as an integral part of the ampule structure during the blow-molding process. There is no separate attachment step required - the applicator elements are already in their final positions as part of the molded structure, eliminating assembly time and complexity.
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 solution simplifies the assembly process, reduces manufacturing costs, and provides a convenient, easy-to-use product with a reduced number of parts, while ensuring the dispenser can be easily stored and used for various liquid applications, including dental and personal care.
Implementation Method 1
removal of the removable seal creates an opening in the passage at a location upstream of the applicator tip and a fluid distribution channel between the fingers
Implementation Method 2
These ampules are prepared by blow molding from a resilient material
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser (1) for liquids includes a reservoir (100) defining a volume (V100) for housing a liquid (150); a delivery tube (200) with a first end (201) attached to the reservoir, and a second end (202) distal from the reservoir, the delivery tube including a passage (203) in fluid communication with the volume of the reservoir and extending away from the reservoir; an applicator element (300) including an applicator tip (320) and a base (310) attached to the second end of the delivery tube, the applicator tip having a plurality of fingers (322) extending away from the base to a distal end of the applicator element distal from the delivery tube; and a removable seal (340), wherein removal of the removable seal creates an opening in the passage at a location upstream of the applicator tip and a fluid distribution channel between the fingers.