Inverted bottle dispensing systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for flowable products do not efficiently allow for the measurement and dispensing of variable amounts without disassembly, often leading to wastage and potential spills, and they do not effectively store in an inverted position to prevent leakage.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system comprising a bottle with a flexible side wall, a valve cap, and a dosing cap that allows for dispensing into the dosing cap while attached, featuring a venting aperture to manage air flow and prevent pressure buildup, enabling the system to be stored and used in an inverted position without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the bottle is stored in an inverted position, then the flowable product is always positioned for dispensing, but the system may leak or discharge unintentionally when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The valve cap is pre-configured with a valve mechanism that automatically closes the dispensing opening when the bottle is inverted, preventing leakage before it can occur. The venting aperture is also pre-positioned to allow air escape during cap removal while maintaining product containment
Solution Approach 2:
The valve acts as an intermediary component between the bottle opening and the external environment, controlling fluid flow based on bottle orientation. The venting aperture serves as an intermediary pathway for air flow, allowing pressure equalization without compromising product containment
2Productivity
If the dosing cap is removed for dispensing, then the product can be dispensed freely, but the system becomes less compact and more prone to spills
Solution Approach 1:
The dosing cap is merged with the valve cap assembly, allowing it to remain attached during dispensing operations. This integration enables the dosing cap to function as both a measuring device and a sealed container when attached, eliminating the need for complete separation while maintaining dispensing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The dosing cap nests within or alongside the valve cap structure, creating a compact integrated assembly. This nested configuration allows the dosing cap to be securely positioned during storage and transport while remaining accessible for dispensing operations
3Reliability
If the venting aperture allows air flow between the bottle and valve cap, then pressure buildup is prevented, but air may escape during dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The venting aperture is strategically positioned in a specific location on the valve cap where it can facilitate pressure equalization during cap removal or filling operations, while the valve mechanism locally controls product flow to prevent unintended discharge. The localized positioning allows the system to breathe without compromising containment
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 system enables precise measurement and dispensing of variable amounts without disassembly, reducing wastage and spills, and ensures the product remains positioned for use when stored in an inverted position, preventing leakage and unintentional discharge.
Implementation Method 1
a bottle including a proximal end and a distal end separated by a side wall which has a portion that is flexible
Implementation Method 2
the valve cap further includes a venting aperture to allow air flow into and out of the dosing cap, characterized in that the venting aperture allows air to flow into and out of a gap located between the side wall of the bottle and the valve cap
Implementation Method 3
the bottle is in an inverted position with the opening disposed below the distal end
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A dispensing system that includes a bottle, a valve cap, a dosing cap. The bottle includes a side wall having at least a portion that is flexible. The valve cap regulates the dispensing of a flowable product from bottle into the dosing cap. In particular, flowable product may be dispensed from the bottle into the dosing cap when the dispensing system is in an inverted position and while the dosing cap is attached to valve cap. The valve cap and the dosing cap may support the dispensing system in the inverted position.