Remotely Operated Valve Assembly for Pressurized Fluid Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressurized fluid containers, such as spray cans, are difficult to maneuver in small spaces and require continuous depression of the nozzle for continuous fluid discharge, which can be tiring.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated valve assembly that includes an adapter for insertion into a pressurized container, a tubing connecting the adapter to a discharge nozzle, and a trigger mechanism to control fluid discharge, allowing for easier operation and continuous fluid flow without manual depression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard pressurized spray can is used, then fluid can be dispensed directly from the nozzle, but it is difficult to maneuver and aim in small confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate components: the pressurized container remains stationary while the nozzle assembly is detached and connected via tubing. This allows the nozzle to be maneuvered independently in confined spaces without moving the entire can, resolving the contradiction between ease of maneuvering and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible tubing acts as an intermediary connection between the stationary adapter (attached to the can) and the movable discharge nozzle. This intermediary element enables the nozzle to be positioned remotely in difficult-to-reach areas while the main container remains stable, solving the maneuvering difficulty without requiring direct handling of the entire can.
2Productivity
If continuous spray is desired, then the nozzle must be kept depressed, but this is difficult and tiring for the user
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge nozzle incorporates a trigger mechanism that automatically maintains fluid discharge when activated. Once the trigger is pulled, the system self-regulates to provide continuous spray without requiring the user to continuously depress the nozzle, eliminating user fatigue while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism transforms the static depression action into a dynamic on/off control system. The trigger can be pulled to initiate continuous discharge and released to stop flow, providing ergonomic control that eliminates the need for sustained manual pressure while enabling continuous spray when needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the nozzle is removed from the pressurized container, then remote operation is enabled, but additional components (adapter, tubing) are required
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter combines multiple functions into a single component: it attaches to the pressurized container opening, connects to the tubing, and provides the fluid pathway to the remote nozzle. This merging reduces the number of separate parts needed while enabling remote operation, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A nozzle assembly provides an adapter configured for insertion into a pressurized container, wherein a nozzle has been removed from the pressurized container. A tubing has a first end connected to the adapter and a second end. A discharge nozzle is releasably connected to the second end of the tubing.