Modular Volatile Dispensing System with Passive Active Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing volatile material dispensing systems either passively or actively emit volatiles but lack the flexibility to adjust diffusion rates and conserve energy, as they are typically designed for single operating modes.
Innovation Solution
A modular volatile material dispensing system that includes a supporting plate with a cover plate forming a compartment, allowing for both passive and active diffusion modes by using a heating element and a permeable membrane, and can be easily converted between these states, with interchangeable adapters for different operating configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-mode dispensing system is used, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different operating conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is divided into separate functional modules: a passive diffusion module with permeable membrane and an active heating module with heating element. These modules can be independently selected and combined, allowing the system to adapt to different operating conditions without requiring a completely different device structure for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate both passive and active diffusion modules. The same base structure can support different functional additions, making the system multi-functional while maintaining a relatively simple base design.
2Productivity
If active heating is used to increase volatile diffusion rate, then the diffusion efficiency is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic adjustment between passive and active heating modes based on user needs. When high diffusion rates are required, active heating can be engaged; when energy conservation is prioritized, passive diffusion can be used. This dynamic flexibility enables optimization of the trade-off between productivity and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the thermal parameter state by switching between heated and non-heated conditions. The heating element can be activated or deactivated to adjust the temperature parameter, thereby controlling the rate of volatile diffusion while managing energy consumption according to operational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a heating element is added to enable active diffusion mode, then the adaptability to controlled diffusion is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating function is segmented as a separate optional module rather than an integrated mandatory component. This allows the heating element and its control circuitry to be added only when active diffusion mode is needed, rather than being present in all configurations, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A control circuit is introduced as an intermediary component that manages the heating element operation. This intermediary layer provides simple on/off control and temperature regulation, enabling sophisticated diffusion control while keeping the overall system architecture relatively straightforward through centralized management.
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
Enables adjustable volatile diffusion rates and energy conservation by allowing users to switch between passive and active modes, while also providing aesthetic and functional flexibility through modular design.
Implementation Method 1
Heat from a heating element assists in the volatilization of the fragrance
Implementation Method 2
Heat from a heating element assists in the volatilization of the fragrance, which is thereafter diffused through the permeable membrane
Implementation Method 3
A heating element located within the housing is adapted to provide heat to the heating surface
Data Source
AI summary
A modular volatile material dispensing system includes a supporting plate having a front side and a rear side. The rear side of the supporting plate is configured to removably attach to an electrical plate and a non-electrical plate. The modular volatile material dispensing system includes a cover plate attached to the front side of the supporting plate to form a compartment therebetween, which is adapted to hold a volatile material therein.