Inverted Spigot Liquid Dispensing System with Dual-Pressure Bag Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional bag-in-box dispensing systems face issues such as spigots being located at the bottom, requiring users to lift or tilt the system to access liquid, inadequate gravity for emptying, and unattractive aesthetics, which hinder efficient and convenient liquid dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A liquid dispensing system featuring a cavity with a spigot-recess and a top plate assembly that applies downward pressure on the bag, combined with a lifting plate and lifter assembly to facilitate upward pressure, allowing for efficient dispensing without manual manipulation and ensuring nearly complete liquid extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the spigot is located at the bottom of the dispensing system, then the system structure is simple, but the user must lift or move the system to access liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional bottom-spigot configuration by positioning the spigot at the top of the dispensing system. This allows liquid to be accessed by gravity flow from the top, eliminating the need to lift or tilt the system, while maintaining structural simplicity through the inverted architecture
2Productivity
If gravity is used to empty the bag, then the system is simple, but gravity is insufficient to empty the contents completely
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by positioning the spigot at the top before dispensing begins. This allows liquid to flow out by gravity from the top position, maximizing extraction efficiency without requiring additional mechanical pumping mechanisms, thereby achieving near-complete emptying while maintaining system simplicity
3Ease of operation
If the spigot is accessible only when the system is tilted or lifted, then the structure is simple, but the operation becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the spigot position to the top of the system, the patent makes the spigot continuously accessible without requiring the system to be tilted or lifted. This inverted configuration improves operational convenience while maintaining straightforward manufacturing requirements
4Ease of manufacture
If the corrugated box is used for dispensing, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a clear coat or decorative finish to the corrugated box, enabling it to serve both functional (low-cost manufacturing) and aesthetic (visual appeal) purposes simultaneously. This multi-functional treatment allows the same structure to satisfy both economic and cosmetic requirements
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
Enables users to access and empty a high percentage of liquid volume (90-100%) without moving the system, improving convenience and aesthetics while ensuring efficient liquid dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure plate for placing downward force on the bag of liquid
Implementation Method 2
The lifting plate places an upward pressure on the bag of liquid in an amount sufficient to raise the bag as liquid is removed
Implementation Method 3
The lifting plate is interfaced with a lifter assembly configured to lift the lifting plate
Data Source
AI summary
Liquid dispensing systems for use with a bag having a pre-attached spigot are shown and described, in one example, a system includes a cavity for receiving the bag of liquid. A spigot-recess is configured to engage the spigot. A top plate assembly is locatable at or near the top of the system, the top plate assembly including a pressure plate for placing downward force on the bag of liquid. The system also includes a lifting plate for placing an upward pressure on the bag of liquid.