Multi-Flow Stopper With Integral Flow Openings for Easier Manufacturing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-flow caps with fluid regulation systems separate from the main body face challenges in manufacturing and incur higher costs.

Innovation Solution

A multi-flow cap design with integral flow outlet openings and baffles within the main body, featuring symmetrical openings and baffles to regulate flow, integrated tamper-resistant mechanisms, and a snap-fit mechanism for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fluid regulation system is separate from main body, then flow control function is improved, but manufacturing difficulty and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow control functionVSAvoidmanufacturing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the fluid regulation system with the main body by integrating the flow control openings directly into the main body structure. This eliminates the need for separate inserts or attachments, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining effective flow control functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The main body is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the flow control openings, and integrates the fluid regulation system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, easing manufacturing complexity.

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

2Reliability

If flow regulation system is separate from main body, then flow control function is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow control functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By combining the flow regulation system with the main body into a single integrated structure, the patent reduces material costs and assembly operations. The flow control openings are formed as part of the main body molding process, eliminating additional manufacturing steps and reducing overall production cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple openings are used for flow regulation, then flow control versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflow control versatilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple flow control openings are integrated directly into the main body structure rather than being separate components. This merging approach maintains the versatility of having multiple flow rates while reducing structural complexity through unified manufacturing and simplified assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Facilitates easier manufacturing, reduces costs, and ensures consistent fluid flow without bubbling, while providing tamper-evidence through integrated mechanisms.

Implementation Method 1

a first plurality of baffles distributed along an inner perimeter of the main body, said baffles being arranged such that each opening is partially coincident with at least one baffle in the outflow direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFlow obstruction and redirection:

Data Source

PatentEP4349731B1Multi-flow stopper
Publication Date: 2025.08.20 BERICAP HOLDING GMBH
  • EP4349731B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4349731B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4349731B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A multi-flow stopper for liquids, comprising: - a part with means of attachment to a gland of a container, said part forming a main body on the stopper, - two flow outlet openings of unequal size, so as to define a large and a small opening characterized in that said two openings form an integral part of the part forming the main body of the stopper.