Modular Outlet Assembly for Dispenser Adaptability and Quick Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing dispensers for web-shaped absorbent materials face challenges in efficiently switching between one-by-one and continuous dispensing modes, and there is a need for a time-efficient and reliable method to attach and detach different dispensing outlets without compromising the dispensing function.

Innovation Solution

An outlet assembly comprising a first and second part with protruding portions and fastening bores that allow for easy attachment and detachment by aligning and inserting a fastening member, facilitated by protruding support portions and recesses for precise positioning, ensuring a robust and compact configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different dispensers with different nozzles are provided to meet various dispensing needs, then the dispensing function is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedispensing functionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dispenser body is designed with a universal mounting structure that can accommodate multiple types of dispensing outlets (nozzles) through standardized fastening mechanisms. This allows a single dispenser body to perform multiple dispensing functions by simply changing the outlet assembly, rather than requiring different dispenser bodies for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The dispensing system is divided into separate modular components: a reusable dispenser body and interchangeable outlet assemblies. This segmentation allows the outlet portion to be changed independently while retaining the main dispenser body, reducing overall system complexity and enabling versatile functionality through component combination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple dispensing outlets are provided for different dispensing modes, then the adaptability is improved, but the loss of time for switching outlets increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidtime for switching outlets
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple outlet assemblies are designed to be pre-configured with different dispensing characteristics (one-by-one dispensing, continuous dispensing, etc.). Users can quickly switch between modes by simply replacing the pre-configured outlet assembly rather than adjusting complex mechanisms, significantly reducing the time required to change dispensing modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet assembly is designed with dynamic replaceability, allowing quick attachment and detachment through simplified fastening mechanisms. This dynamic design enables rapid switching between different dispensing configurations without requiring time-consuming disassembly or adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a simple attachment method is used for the outlet assembly, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the connection may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of mounting and replacementVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A standardized interface or mounting structure acts as an intermediary between the dispenser body and the outlet assembly. This intermediary component provides both ease of attachment through standardized connections and reliable fixation through proper mechanical engagement features, balancing simplicity with connection strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If the outlet assembly is made compact, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration complexityVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The outlet assembly employs asymmetric design features such as protruding portions and corresponding recesses that provide self-aligning capabilities. This asymmetric configuration reduces the need for high-precision manual positioning during assembly, as the geometric features naturally guide correct alignment, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP4498881B1An outlet assembly for arrangement at a wall opening in an outer wall of a dispenser for web-shaped absorbent material
Publication Date: 2026.02.25 ESSITY HYGIENE & HEALTH AB
  • EP4498881B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4498881B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3b
  • EP4498881B1 patent drawingFigure 4a~4b

AI summary

The disclosure relates to an outlet assembly (1) for arrangement at a wall opening (31) in an outer wall (30) of a dispenser (40) for web-shaped absorbent material, the outlet assembly (1) being adapted to form an outlet for dispensing of the web-shaped absorbent material from the dispenser through the wall opening (31). The disclosure further relates to a dispenser (40) and to a method for arranging an outlet assembly (1) to an outer wall (30) of a dispenser (40) for web-shaped absorbent material.