Liquid Draw-back System for Dispensing Package
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing packages for cleaning and disinfecting compositions require two hands to operate, and they lack a mechanism for efficiently collecting and returning excess liquid to the container, leading to inefficiencies and aesthetic issues like drooling.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing package with a hand-operated liquid transport assembly that includes a pressure component and a suction component, allowing for one-handed application of liquid to a substrate and incorporating a suction-flow liquid draw-back subsystem to return excess liquid to the container through the same liquid distribution pathway.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional pump dispenser is used, then liquid can be dispensed to the substrate, but two hands are required to operate the dispenser
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the liquid distribution subsystem and suction-flow liquid draw-back subsystem into a single integrated dispensing package, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining both dispensing and excess liquid collection functions. The actuator serves dual purposes for both subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed to serve multiple functions: it activates both the liquid distribution subsystem and the suction-flow liquid draw-back subsystem, enabling one-handed operation while maintaining both dispensing and excess liquid collection capabilities.
2Loss of substance
If a separate drain-back pathway is added to collect excess liquid, then excess liquid can be returned to the container, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the liquid distribution pathway and excess liquid draw-back pathway into a single integrated pathway system. The same liquid pathway that delivers liquid to the actuator also serves as the return pathway for excess liquid, eliminating the need for separate drain-back tubing or channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid distribution pathway is designed to serve dual functions: delivering liquid from the container to the actuator during dispensing, and returning excess liquid from the actuator to the container during the draw-back phase. This multi-functional pathway reduces overall system complexity.
3Device complexity
If the liquid distribution pathway is used for both dispensing and draw-back, then device complexity is reduced, but liquid flow control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic reciprocating motion of the actuator to alternately activate the liquid distribution subsystem and the suction-flow liquid draw-back subsystem. During the forward stroke, liquid is dispensed; during the return stroke, excess liquid is drawn back. This periodic action enables flow control in a single pathway without requiring complex valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the natural pressure differentials created by the reciprocating actuator motion to automatically direct liquid flow in the appropriate direction. The actuator's movement itself generates the suction force needed for draw-back, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms.
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 convenient, controlled one-handed application of cleaning compositions and efficient collection of excess liquid, preventing drooling and improving the user experience and appearance of the dispensing package.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one discharge orifice is in fluid communication with the suction component to permit flow of liquid from the top surface of the actuator back through the at least one discharge orifice upon reciprocation of the actuator
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a liquid dispensing package for a container adapted to contain a liquid that includes a hand operated liquid transport assembly coupled to an actuator, a liquid distribution subsystem in fluid communication with a discharge tube from the liquid transport assembly, wherein downward motion of the actuator, provided by a user, causes liquid to travel through the discharge tube to the actuator top surface, and a liquid draw-back subsystem wherein upward motion of the actuator, provided by a return spring, permits draw-back of liquid from the top surface of the actuator.