Recyclable Dispensing Pump Locking and Polymer Spring Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing pumps for liquids and viscous materials face challenges in recyclability due to the presence of metal springs and non-recyclable locking mechanisms, which hinder the recycling process and increase costs with additional components.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing pump design featuring a polymer compression spring assembly and recyclable paper or polymer locking structures, including a slotted tubular spring element, guide tube, and sliding plug mechanism, allowing for easy recycling and secure locking and unlocking of the dispensing head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal spring is used in the dispensing pump, then the pump can reliably return to its resting position, but the recyclability of the pump is impeded due to the need to separate metal from plastic components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring material is changed from metal to polymer, fundamentally altering the material parameter to enable recyclability while maintaining the spring's functional properties of elasticity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses polymer composite materials that combine the elastic properties traditionally associated with metal springs with the recyclability and environmental benefits of polymer materials
2Volume of stationary object
If the dispensing head is locked in place during shipping, then shipping space is reduced and actuation is prevented, but additional non-recyclable locking components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from separate mechanical locking components and integrated into the polymer structure itself, eliminating the need for additional non-recyclable locking parts
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the polymer structure of the dispensing head, combining the structural function with the locking function in a single recyclable component
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
The solution enables the dispensing pump to be entirely recyclable, reducing shipping space and costs while ensuring secure operation, as all components can be easily recycled and reused, enhancing the sustainability of the product.
Implementation Method 1
a spring structure which biases the co-acting nozzle portion to its normal rest position
Implementation Method 2
The plug and guide tube are retained in the locked position by friction between the lower portions of the plug and guide tube
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing pump includes a spring assembly and a locking arrangement to prevent the dispensing head from being deployed and/or actuated during shipment, stocking and pre-purchase handling. The dispensing pump includes a pump base, and a dispensing head having a piston stem. The spring assembly includes a slotted tubular spring element and first and second loading cones received at opposing ends of the slotted tubular spring element. Various locking arrangements may include interacting rotatable lugs provided between the dispensing head and the pump base, snap beads to retain the piston and dispensing head in a secured shipping position, and recyclable locking rings disposed between the dispensing head and pump base which prevent an active dispensing head from being actuated.