Integrated Trigger-Spring Element for Dispensing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual trigger-dispensing devices face challenges in the robustness and cost of return springs, which are critical components, and the assembly process is inefficient due to the need for precise application of the trigger and spring, often requiring expensive materials like acetal resin.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing head with an integrated trigger-spring element made from a single piece of thermoplastic resin, such as polypropylene, that provides a significant return action while being less expensive and allowing for high-speed assembly, using a design that minimizes deformation and overall dimensions, enabling easier storage and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a return spring is used to provide robust return action for the trigger, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to expensive materials like acetal resin
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the trigger and return spring into a single integrated component made from thermoplastic resin. The trigger element includes integrated spring arms that provide the return action, eliminating the need for a separate return spring component. This merging reduces material costs while maintaining the required robustness through the elastic properties of the thermoplastic material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from expensive acetal resin to cost-effective thermoplastic resin. By optimizing the geometry and structure of the integrated trigger-spring element, the design compensates for material differences to ensure adequate return action and reliability without requiring costly materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate return spring is assembled with the trigger, then functionality is improved, but assembly complexity increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The trigger and return spring are merged into a single monolithic component manufactured in one injection molding process. This integration eliminates the assembly step of installing a separate return spring, significantly increasing production speed and productivity while maintaining all necessary functionalities of the dispensing device.
Solution Approach 2:
While the trigger-spring is integrated, the patent maintains functional segmentation through the modular design of the trigger element itself, with distinct actuation portions and spring arms that perform different functions within the single component, ensuring versatility is preserved.
3Reliability
If expensive materials like acetal resin are used for the return spring, then reliability is improved, but material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from expensive acetal resin to economical thermoplastic resin. The durability and reliability are maintained through optimized structural design of the integrated trigger-spring element, leveraging the elastic recovery properties of thermoplastic materials and appropriate geometric configuration to ensure repeated use without failure.
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 provides a cost-effective and robust return action for the trigger, facilitating efficient assembly and reducing material costs, while maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of the dispensing device.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring which, after the actuation of the trigger, returns it to its initial rest position
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing head (1) for a trigger dispensing device includes a return spring (50) provided with a pair of main arms (52, 54), secondary arms (62, 64) which extend from the main arms (52, 54) and an abutment portion (70) that connects the secondary arms (62, 64). The abutment portion (70) and/or the secondary arms (62, 64) are applied to the frame (2) to create a constraint and give rise to a return action.