Liquid Dispenser with Bottom-Activated Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid dispensing methods, such as using pitchers, ladles, or martini shakers, result in messy and inaccurate filling of shot glasses, especially when handling hot liquids, and do not efficiently accommodate mass quantities or allow for precise control over the flow.
Innovation Solution
A liquid dispenser with a container spout and an elongated tube system featuring a flexible and rigid tube configuration, where a valve at the dispensing end is activated by pressing against the bottom of a receptacle, allowing gravity-fed flow control without spilling, and accommodating hot liquids with an ergonomic handle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional dispensing methods (pitcher, ladle, martini shaker) are used, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but the filling accuracy and precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is divided into distinct functional segments: a reservoir for holding liquid, a flexible tube for controlled delivery, and a rigid tube with valve mechanism for precise flow control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, achieving accurate filling while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A valve mechanism acts as an intermediary between the liquid reservoir and the dispensing point, providing precise control over liquid flow. The valve enables accurate measurement and controlled dispensing, bridging the gap between simple container designs and precision filling requirements.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If hot liquids are dispensed without a handle, then the device structure is simpler, but the user safety and comfort deteriorate due to burning hands
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed as a separate, ergonomically shaped component attached to the reservoir, allowing users to hold the dispenser without contacting the hot liquid directly. This segmentation isolates the thermal hazard from the user's hand while maintaining simple overall device structure.
3Ease of operation
If a valve mechanism is placed at the container spout, then the flow control precision is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is positioned at the dispensing end rather than at the container spout, moving the control point closer to where the liquid exits. This dimensional repositioning allows for easier operation during dispensing while maintaining flow control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser design allows the user to control the flow directly at the point of dispensing through the valve, enabling self-service operation without requiring complex remote control mechanisms or pre-programmed flow rates.
4Force
If the tube is entirely flexible, then the ease of operation and positioning is improved, but the pressure generation and valve opening capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser combines a flexible tube section for easy positioning and maneuverability with a rigid tube section for maintaining structural integrity and generating sufficient pressure. This merging of flexible and rigid properties allows the system to achieve both ease of operation and adequate force for valve opening.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the tube have different mechanical properties: the proximal section is flexible to allow easy positioning, while the distal section is rigid to provide the necessary structural strength and pressure generation capability. This local differentiation of tube properties optimizes both ease of operation and force generation.
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 dispenser enables efficient, accurate, and spill-free filling of multiple shot glasses or cups, allowing for adjustable flow rates and safe handling of hot liquids, significantly improving the precision and convenience of liquid dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
using gravity to facilitate all liquid being used
Data Source
AI summary
A device used to easily fill small containers, i.e. shot glasses, with hot or cold liquids, with precision and speed, without spillage. The device consists of a funnel, attached to a filler hose, with a specialized filler nozzle at the end. Liquid of choice is poured into the funnel. The liquid then flows through the hose, but will not come out until the user activates the nozzle. The nozzle is activated by gently pressing its tip on the floor of the container. The liquid dispenser device may be used to fill shot glasses with hot, liquid gelatin mixtures or can be used to fill other cups, such as communion cups.