MEMS Fluid Dispensing System with Randomized Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems for fragrances lack variability in combinations of relative proportions, leading to habituation and a limited range of scent possibilities, as they often rely on predictable patterns that can result in consistent fragrance exposure.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing MEMS dispensing elements, controlled by a memory component with programmed instructions, randomly dispenses fluids from multiple storage chambers, allowing for unpredictable and varied combinations of fragrances by altering dispensing rates and ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a defined pattern is used for dispensing fluid combinations, then the system provides structure and control, but the number of possible fragrance combinations remains limited and predictable leading to habituation
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static predefined patterns to dynamic random dispensing. The control element randomly selects which dispensing elements activate and for how long, creating continuously varying fragrance combinations that adapt over time without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the dispensing parameters (which elements activate, duration of activation, intensity) from fixed values to variable values controlled by random selection. This allows the same physical system to produce a vastly expanded range of fragrance combinations by varying operational parameters rather than physical configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fluid storage chambers are used, then the variety of fragrance combinations is increased, but the system complexity and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control element automatically manages the complexity of coordinating multiple fluid storage chambers and MEMS dispensing elements through random selection algorithms. Rather than requiring external complex control systems, the device self-regulates by randomly determining which chambers dispense and in what proportions, simplifying the overall control architecture while maximizing combination variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The fragrance delivery system is segmented into multiple independent fluid storage chambers, each containing different fragrance components. This segmentation allows independent control of each chamber's dispensing, enabling a wide variety of combinations to be created by selectively activating different segments rather than using a single complex mixture.
3Ease of operation
If predictable patterns are used for fluid dispensing, then the system is easy to control, but user habituation occurs and fragrance freshness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic dispensing cycles where MEMS elements are activated for specific time intervals, but the pattern of activation changes randomly with each cycle. This periodic structure maintains ease of control through systematic timing while the random variation in each period prevents habituation and maintains fragrance experience variety.
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
This approach significantly expands the number of possible fragrance combinations, providing a more dynamic and less predictable scent experience, reducing habituation by introducing randomness in fluid dispensing, thereby enhancing fragrance variety and freshness.
Implementation Method 1
Systems for atomizing, misting or otherwise dispensing fluids into an environment are known
Implementation Method 2
Systems for atomizing, misting or otherwise dispensing fluids into an environment are known
Data Source
AI summary
A system for dispensing fluid materials includes: a plurality of fluid storage chambers with each of the plurality containing a stored fluid; at least one MEMS dispensing element disposed in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of fluid storage chambers; a control element disposed in electrical communication with the at least one MEMS dispensing element and comprising a memory component; a power supply disposed in electrical communication with the at least one MEMS dispensing element and the control element; and a user interface disposed in electrical communication with the control element. The memory component contains programmed instructions which, when executed by the control element cause the system to randomly dispense a first fluid from a first fluid storage chamber, and randomly disperse a second fluid from a second fluid storage chamber.