Metered Powder Dispensing Container with Valve Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sifter jars for cosmetic powders are prone to uncontrollable dispersion, leading to waste and premature wear due to their reliance on sifting mechanisms, which also risk clogging and require careful cleaning to avoid further dispersal of the powder.

Innovation Solution

A powder dispensing jar equipped with a valve mechanism that separates the storage and dispensing chambers, allowing controlled dispensation through a metering valve activated by the cover member, eliminating the need for a sifter and minimizing powder dispersal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a sifter mechanism is used to dispense powder, then the powder can be transferred from storage, but the powder becomes difficult to control and disperses uncontrollably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepowder dispensing controlVSAvoiduncontrollable powder dispersal
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the sifter mechanism entirely and replaces it with a valve-based metering system. The harmful sifting action that causes uncontrollable dispersal is extracted from the design, leaving only the necessary powder transfer function through a controlled valve mechanism that prevents widespread powder dispersion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a valve mechanism as an intermediary between the powder storage chamber and the dispensing area. This valve acts as a mediator that controls powder flow, allowing only measured amounts to pass through while preventing the uncontrolled dispersal that occurs with direct sifter exposure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If a sifter mechanism is used, then powder can be dispensed, but the sifter becomes clogged and requires cleaning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepowder dispensing efficiencyVSAvoidsifter cleaning maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the sifter component that is prone to clogging and requires cleaning. By replacing it with a valve mechanism, the design removes the source of maintenance problems while maintaining powder dispensing functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a disposable or easily replaceable valve mechanism that can be quickly cleaned or replaced if clogged, rather than requiring careful disassembly and cleaning of the sifter mechanism. This approach reduces maintenance complexity and time requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Ease of operation

If the jar is opened to access powder, then the user can dispense powder, but the powder billows and disperses in an uncontrollable fashion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepowder accessibilityVSAvoidpowder waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-loads a measured amount of powder onto the valve mechanism before the user opens the jar. This preliminary action ensures that only the specific quantity needed for dispensing is exposed, preventing powder waste from billowing and dispersing when the jar is opened.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The valve mechanism serves as an intermediary that holds a controlled amount of powder ready for dispensing. When the user opens the jar, the powder is already metered and prepared, allowing access to the exact amount needed without causing unwanted dispersal of excess powder.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8245886B2Metered powder-dispensing container
Publication Date: 2012.08.21 ROBERTS CONTAINER CORP
  • US8245886B2 patent drawing
  • US8245886B2 patent drawing
  • US8245886B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A powder dispensing container is provided, the container divided into a powder storage chamber and a powder dispensing chamber with an opening between the two controlled by a valve mechanism. A cap or closure member is disposed over an upper open end of a powder dispensing chamber and when opened, causes a closure of the valve mechanism. When the cover is returned to its closed position, the valve will automatically open allowing for new charge of powder form the storage chamber to enter into the dispensing chamber. The closure member is provided with an actuator that extends through the powder dispensing chamber and engages and causes operation of the valve mechanism.