Microfluidic Cartridge Spring-Loaded Connection Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing microfluidic delivery systems require multiple steps and motions to connect and disconnect cartridges, which can be cumbersome for users with limited mobility and inconvenient for consumers seeking ease and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method and cartridge design that allows for a single-direction, spring-loaded connection of the cartridge with the microfluidic delivery system, where the electrical contacts on the cartridge align with those on the housing in a straightforward manner, facilitating easy insertion and removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple action steps and motions are required to insert and remove cartridges (opening doors/panels, multistep connection processes), then reliable electrical and fluid connections can be established, but the ease of operation deteriorates and time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of cartridge connectionVSAvoidconnection process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple connection functions (electrical contacts, fluid nozzle connections, and mechanical securing) into a single integrated cartridge insertion action. The cartridge design integrates the electrical contacts and fluid nozzle into one unit that connects to the housing through a single sliding motion, eliminating the need for separate connection steps for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring the user to actively connect multiple components separately, the invention inverts the approach by using a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically establishes all connections when the cartridge is inserted. The spring force automatically pushes the electrical contacts and fluid nozzle into engagement with the housing, reversing the traditional approach where users must manually connect each component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Productivity

If multiple action steps and motions are required to connect cartridges, then secure connections are achieved, but the time and energy required for the task increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecartridge replacement speedVSAvoidtime for connection process

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded mechanism is pre-loaded during cartridge manufacturing, storing mechanical energy that automatically activates upon insertion. This preliminary action ensures that as soon as the cartridge is inserted into the housing, the spring force immediately pushes the electrical contacts and fluid nozzle into engagement, eliminating the need for additional connection steps and reducing the overall time required for cartridge replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If a single-direction spring-loaded connection is used, then ease of operation improves and time is saved, but the reliability of connection may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of connectionVSAvoidconnection reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs precise geometric design of the electrical contacts and fluid nozzle interfaces to ensure reliable connection through a single sliding motion. The contacts are arranged in specific patterns and orientations that guarantee proper alignment and engagement when the cartridge is inserted in the designated direction, maintaining connection reliability despite the simplified single-step process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 solution simplifies the process of connecting and disconnecting cartridges, reducing the number of steps and motions required, thereby enhancing usability for users with limited mobility and saving time and energy for all users.

Implementation Method 1

The cartridge is connected spring-loaded with the housing, wherein when the cartridge is connected with the housing, the first plane is parallel with the second plane

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring-loaded connection: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3386553B1Microfluidic delivery cartridges and methods of connecting cartridges with microfluidic delivery systems

Publication Date: 2025.04.02 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO

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AI summary

A method of connecting a cartridge comprising a fluid composition with a microfluidic delivery system is provided. The method includes the steps of: providing a housing comprising electrical contacts, wherein the electrical contacts of the housing are disposed on a first plane; providing a cartridge comprising a reservoir for containing a fluid composition, a die comprising a nozzle, and electrical contacts that are in electrical communication with the die, wherein the electrical contacts of the cartridge are disposed along a second plane that is parallel with the first plane; and connecting the cartridge with the housing by moving the cartridge in a direction parallel with the second plane toward the housing until the electrical contacts of the cartridge are in electrical communication with the electrical contacts of the housing.