Nested Refill Container Assembly for Leak-Safe Fluid Dispensers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cartridge-based soap dispensers rely on disposable refill cartridges that are single-use and cannot be refilled, leading to waste and increased costs due to the need for frequent replacements, even when the remaining fluid is still usable.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispenser assembly featuring two interchangeable containers, where the second container can be inserted into the first to refill it, allowing for continuous use and reducing waste by enabling refilling of the first container with the second, which is designed to be refillable and cost-effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If disposable refill cartridges are used, then the dispenser is simple to operate, but the cartridges cannot be refilled and must be frequently replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The refill cartridge is inserted inside the main container, with the refill cartridge's output port connecting to the main container's input port. This nested configuration allows the refill cartridge to transfer fluid directly into the main container without removal, enabling repeated refilling operations while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service refilling where the user can refill the main container using the refill cartridge without requiring external assistance or complex procedures. The automatic valve activation and direct fluid transfer path allow users to independently perform refilling operations.
2Device complexity
If disposable refill cartridges are used, then the dispenser structure is simple, but replacement frequency increases costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous useful action by enabling the refill cartridge to be inserted and used multiple times to refill the main container. Instead of replacing the entire cartridge after single use, the same cartridge can repeatedly transfer fluid, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The refill cartridge is prepared in advance with fluid reservoir and dispensing mechanism already assembled. This preliminary preparation allows the cartridge to be quickly inserted into the main container for refilling, reducing the time and effort required compared to replacing entire disposable units.
3Ease of operation
If the output port is always open for refilling, then refilling is easy, but fluid leaks when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic valve is positioned to close the output port before the refill cartridge is inserted and to remain closed when the cartridge is removed. This preliminary anti-action prevents fluid leakage by ensuring the valve is in the closed position whenever the refill cartridge is not actively transferring fluid, countering the potential harmful effect of leakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve transitions from a static open/closed state to a dynamic state that automatically responds to the presence and position of the refill cartridge. The valve opens only when the cartridge is properly inserted and closes when removed, providing dynamic control that prevents leakage while maintaining refilling convenience.
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 reduces waste and costs by allowing the first container to be refilled from the second, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective refill process compared to conventional disposable cartridges, while maintaining the convenience of easy installation and interchangeability of the containers.
Implementation Method 1
The flow pump is movable between an opened position and a closed position and is configured to facilitate movement of fluid from the reservoir
Implementation Method 2
The flow pump can be biased into the closed position with a biasing member
Data Source
AI summary
A refillable fluid container for a fluid dispenser is provided. The refillable fluid dispenser includes a body, an output port and a dispensing mechanism. The body includes at least one wall that defines a reservoir for storing fluid therein. The output port is in fluid communication with the reservoir. The dispensing mechanism is associated with the output port. The dispensing mechanism is selectively operable between a closed position and an opened position. A fluid dispenser is also provided.