Modular Dispenser Adaptor for Multi-Cartridge Compatibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispenser systems require costly and inefficient manufacturing processes to accommodate different types of fluid cartridges, often necessitating the production of multiple dispenser variants for various fluid grades and types, leading to increased costs and waste.
Innovation Solution
A modular dispenser system featuring an adaptable mechanism with interchangeable adaptors that allow a single dispenser design to support multiple cartridge types, enabling easy reconfiguration and reducing the need for multiple dispenser variants by using a central biased region and distal biased regions with flex axes to secure cartridges of different dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dispenser is configured to operate exclusively with a particular cartridge type to ensure fluid quality and hygiene, then the reliability of fluid dispensing is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple components for preventing incompatible cartridge use
Solution Approach 1:
An adaptor is introduced as an intermediary component between the dispenser and the cartridge. The adaptor includes a body with a first opening for receiving a drive flange and a second opening for receiving a pump assembly. This adaptor serves as a mediator that enables the dispenser to work with different cartridge types while maintaining fluid quality control and hygiene requirements, without requiring complex built-in verification mechanisms in the dispenser itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser system is segmented into separate functional components: the dispenser unit, the adaptor, and the cartridge. This segmentation allows the adaptor to be independently designed and configured for specific cartridge types, while the main dispenser remains simple and universal. The adaptor body, drive flange, and pump assembly are further divided into discrete parts that can be manufactured and assembled separately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dispenser variants are manufactured to accommodate different fluid grades and types, then the adaptability of the dispenser system is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases and waste is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser unit is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple cartridge types through the use of interchangeable adaptors. The adaptor body includes a first opening configured to receive a drive flange and a second opening configured to receive a pump assembly, allowing the same adaptor design to accommodate different cartridge configurations. This universal design eliminates the need to manufacture multiple dispenser variants for different fluid grades and types, reducing manufacturing costs and waste.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the entire dispenser is replaced to accommodate a new cartridge type, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to disposal of the old dispenser
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge-specific adaptation functionality is extracted from the main dispenser unit and placed into removable adaptors. These adaptors can be easily removed and replaced depending on the cartridge type being used, while the main dispenser body remains in place and is not discarded. This extraction approach allows for cartridge type changes without replacing the entire dispenser, thereby reducing material waste.
4Adaptability or versatility
If replacement mechanisms within the dispenser are used to accommodate new cartridges, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to costly and complex replacement procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced when changing cartridge types. Rather than requiring complex replacement mechanisms within the dispenser, the system uses simple adaptors that can be quickly swapped out. The adaptor body, drive flange, and pump assembly are designed for easy installation and removal, making the reconfiguration process simple and cost-effective.
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 solution allows for efficient manufacturing, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, ensuring the correct fluid type is dispensed while minimizing waste and the number of components required, as the dispenser can be easily adapted to accommodate different cartridges without replacing the entire system.
Implementation Method 1
an adaptor (300) configured to be removably coupled to a moving chassis (296) to form a support structure for supporting a cartridge (120) in the dispenser (110)
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser includes a dispenser body that has an interior cavity in which a first chassis is configured to be translated relative to a second chassis along a central axis. The dispenser has a cartridge including a container and a pump that includes a drive flange defining a drive diameter. The dispenser includes an adaptor having a pair of legs that are configured to be coupled to the drive flange and the first chassis, and the adaptor and the drive flange are configured to prevent the drive flange from being translated independently of each other.