Modular Overtube Adapter System for Cost-Effective Pump Customization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overtube designs for pump systems in fragrance products are limited in customization and decoration, and current manufacturing methods are inflexible, making it difficult to change designs efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an overtube adapter system that allows for the attachment of overtubes with various designs to the pump system, utilizing features like seals, ridges, and snap features to secure the overtube, and using modular molds to create different overtube designs cost-effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional molding methods are used for overtubes, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but design flexibility and customization capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The molding system is segmented into a stationary mold body and a movable slide assembly. The slide can be independently removed and replaced, allowing different overtube designs to be produced using the same base mold structure. This segmentation enables design flexibility without requiring complete mold replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary mold body is designed with universal features that can accommodate multiple different slide assemblies. Each slide can create different overtube designs, allowing a single mold body to serve multiple design purposes. This multi-functionality achieves design versatility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple molds are used to create different overtube designs, then design variety is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the mold into a permanent stationary body and replaceable slides, the system allows design changes without investing in entirely new molds. Only the relatively inexpensive slide components need to be manufactured for each design, significantly reducing the cost of achieving design variety.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding entire molds when design changes are needed, the system allows for the recovery and reuse of the expensive stationary mold body. Only the slides are replaced, which are less costly components. This approach recovers major capital investment while still achieving design variety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If overtubes are made as separate components, then design customization is enabled, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slide assembly is designed to integrate with the stationary mold body through precision mating features. The overtube formed by this combined system naturally incorporates attachment features that simplify connection to the pump mechanism, merging the overtube formation and attachment functionality into a single integrated component.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pump systems are used, then functional reliability is maintained, but aesthetic customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is segmented into the functional pump mechanism and the decorative overtube component. This allows independent optimization of each: the pump mechanism maintains its proven reliable design while the overtube can be customized aesthetically through different slide configurations without affecting pump reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A pump system (100) including an overtube adapter (140) and an overtube (150) attached to the overtube adapter (140), the overtube (150) capable of being selectively attached to the overtube adapter (140) to provide different overtube (150) aesthetics for pump systems and fragrance products.