Refillable dispensing systems and components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems in industries like hospitality and healthcare often require manual handling of chemical products, exposing users to harsh concentrates and leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns, especially in refilling and maintaining the chemical solutions.
Innovation Solution
A refillable dispensing system with a fitment insert and docking connector that automates the mixing and dispensing of chemical products, ensuring a sealed connection and eliminating user contact with concentrates, using a check ball and spring mechanism to maintain a leak-proof seal and allow air entry to prevent package collapse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of chemical products is used for refilling, then users can directly control the refilling process, but workers are exposed to harsh chemicals and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an automated dispensing system that acts as an intermediary between the chemical concentrate and the user. The system includes a pump mechanism and control unit that automatically dispense concentrated chemical products into a稀释 tank, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle harsh chemicals while maintaining control over the refilling process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated electromechanical system. The pump mechanism, controlled by a microprocessor-based control unit, automatically transfers chemical concentrates from concentrate tanks to the稀释 tank, substituting human manual operations with automated mechanical and electrical systems that eliminate direct worker exposure to chemicals
2Object-affected harmful factors
If automated mixing and dispensing is implemented, then worker safety is improved and chemical exposure is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional automated dispensing system that combines concentrate storage, automated pumping, dilution mixing, and dispensing operations into a single integrated unit. The control unit manages multiple functions (pump control, valve actuation, mixing ratios) through a single microprocessor-based system, reducing operational complexity despite the advanced automation capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the fitment insert with sealing mechanisms is integrated within the product package, which is then integrated with the automated dispensing system. The pump mechanism is housed within the dispenser body, and the control unit is embedded within the pump assembly, creating a compact nested arrangement that manages system complexity through hierarchical integration
3Loss of substance
If sealed connections are used to prevent leaks, then product loss is reduced, but air entry is blocked causing package collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic sealing mechanisms including a check ball and spring assembly that automatically adjust to maintain seal integrity. The check ball is biased by a spring to maintain contact with the sealing surface, creating a dynamic seal that adapts to pressure changes during dispensing operations, preventing both leaks and package collapse
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes pressure differential changes to control seal behavior. During normal operation, positive pressure maintains the check ball against the sealing surface to prevent leaks. When dispensing occurs and negative pressure develops, the pressure differential reverses, allowing air to enter through the same seal path, preventing package collapse while maintaining product containment
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 system reduces worker exposure to harsh chemicals, increases ease of use, and ensures accurate dilution ratios, providing a safe and efficient 'closed-loop' refilling process that minimizes waste and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
a check ball that is spring-biased to a closed position with respect to the seal within the fluid passage, the check ball further disposed to slide within the second bore between the closed position and an open position
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A closed-loop refillable dispensing system may include one or more reusable or refillable product packages configured to dock with an automated filling station. The automated filling station automatically mixes concentrated chemical product with a diluent and dispenses the resulting chemical product solution. The product package may include a fitment insert configured to mate with a docking connector at the automated filling station. When the product package is removed from the docking connector, the fitment insert provides a positive, leak-proof seal for the product package.