Mask Dispensing Assembly With Lifting Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing devices for disposable face masks in public transportation vehicles do not provide an automated and convenient method for passengers to obtain masks, relying on manual retrieval or non-automated systems.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing device with a housing containing a lifting unit and dispenser mechanism, actuated by a switch, that automatically aligns and dispenses a face mask through a slot when the switch is depressed, allowing easy access for passengers and facilitating refilling when the supply is low.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual retrieval of face masks is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of automation
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting unit automatically advances the stack of face masks without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by detecting when masks are needed and autonomously positioning the next mask for dispensing, eliminating the need for manual retrieval while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical retrieval with an automated lifting mechanism that uses a motorized or spring-driven system to advance the mask stack. This substitution of manual operation with an automated mechanical system improves ease of operation while the complexity is managed through integration into the housing structure
2Productivity
If automated dispensing is implemented, then productivity is improved through automatic mask delivery, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting unit and dispenser are merged into a single integrated housing structure. The lifting mechanism and dispensing slot work together as one unified system, allowing automated mask delivery without requiring separate complex subsystems. This merging maintains productivity while controlling overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions: it stores the stack of masks, contains the lifting mechanism, provides the dispensing slot, and houses the control switch. This multi-functionality allows the device to achieve automated dispensing (improving productivity) while using a single integrated structure rather than multiple separate components (controlling complexity)
3Ease of operation
If a lifting unit is added to align masks with the slot, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting unit is nested within the housing structure, with the mask stack positioned inside the housing and the lifting mechanism integrated around or within the same space. This nesting allows the lifting function to be added without requiring external attachments or separate structures, improving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A mask dispensing assembly includes a housing that is positionable in a public transportation vehicle and the housing has a dispensing slot extending into an interior of the housing to dispense face masks stored in the housing to the passengers. A lifting unit is positioned within the housing to lift a stack of disposable face masks in the housing thereby aligning a topmost one of the stack of disposable face masks with the slot. A dispenser is positioned in the housing to urge the topmost one of the stack of disposable face masks outwardly through the slot. A switch is positioned in the public transportation and the lifting unit is actuated when the switch is depressed to facilitate the driver to dispense a disposable mask for a passenger to wear.