Liquid Dispensing Actuator with Spring-Loaded Pump Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storing and handling large, unwieldy containers of diluted liquids, such as mouthwash, is inefficient in space-constrained areas like bathrooms, and there is a need for a device that can dispense a controlled amount of concentrated liquid while maintaining hygiene and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a basin with a pump and actuator that allows for controlled dispensing of a concentrated liquid from a bottle, using a spring mechanism to move the actuator and restrict the flow of liquid, ensuring the liquid remains below the contact surface and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large container is used to store diluted mouthwash, then the convenience of direct use is improved, but the storage space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the liquid storage system into a small concentrated liquid reservoir and a separate dilution chamber (basin). Instead of storing large volumes of diluted liquid, the system stores a small volume of concentrated liquid and dilutes it on-demand in the basin, reducing storage space requirements while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The concentrated liquid is prepared in advance in a small container, and the device enables on-demand dilution and dispensing. The pump mechanism is pre-configured to automatically control the dilution process, eliminating the need for manual preparation and large storage containers.
2Ease of operation
If the actuator is depressed to dispense liquid, then the dispensing control is improved, but the risk of liquid contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism acts as an intermediary between the concentrated liquid reservoir and the dispensing point. The pump controls liquid flow through sealed channels and valves, preventing direct contact between the user and the concentrated liquid while maintaining precise dispensing control. This intermediary system eliminates contamination risks associated with manual handling.
3Volume of stationary object
If concentrated liquid is stored instead of diluted liquid, then the storage efficiency is improved, but the complexity of the dispensing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump mechanism automatically performs the dilution function without requiring external intervention. The system self-regulates the mixing ratio and dispensing flow rate through its internal mechanical design, eliminating the need for complex electronic controls or manual intervention while achieving efficient concentrated liquid storage and dispensing.
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 device enables efficient storage and dispensing of concentrated liquids, promoting regular use by providing a controlled and hygienic method of delivering active ingredients, reducing the need for large containers and minimizing contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a pump including a barrel and a spring, the barrel coupled to the basin, the barrel defining a cavity, and the spring disposed in the cavity
Implementation Method 2
the spring of the pump biasing the actuator to move in a second direction defined from the cavity of the barrel toward the reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A device for dispensing a liquid may include a basin defining a reservoir, a pump including a barrel and a spring, the barrel coupled to the basin, the barrel defining a cavity, and the spring disposed in the cavity, and an actuator at least partially disposed in the reservoir, the actuator defining a first orifice, a second orifice, and a lumen extending between the first orifice and the second orifice, the reservoir in fluid communication with the lumen via the first orifice, the actuator depressible to move the second orifice in a first direction defined from the reservoir toward the cavity of the barrel, and the spring of the pump biasing the actuator to move in a second direction defined from the cavity of the barrel toward the reservoir.