Removable Blocking Element for Fluid Dispenser Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispenser devices face issues with removable actuation-blocking systems that can detach easily and integrated systems that are complex and costly to manufacture and assemble, requiring significant modifications to existing devices.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispenser device with a removable, transversally movable blocking element that is simple and inexpensive to produce, featuring breakable elements and snap-fastening mechanisms to indicate first use and prevent accidental actuation, which can be easily adapted to existing devices with minimal modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a removable blocking device (such as clips) is fitted under the actuator head to prevent actuation between uses, then the device can be easily removed and installed, but it can become detached on its own during carrying
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is nested within the actuator head structure, with blocking projections that pass through openings in the actuator head to engage with the fastener ring. This nesting approach allows the blocking element to be securely held in place while maintaining ease of removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element is pre-assembled to the actuator head in a blocking position before the device is put into service. This preliminary blocking action prevents accidental actuation during carrying and handling, while allowing intentional removal when the device is ready for use.
2Reliability
If an integrated blocking system is incorporated into the dispenser device to prevent accidental actuation, then the reliability is improved, but the device becomes very complicated to manufacture and assemble with several parts requiring modification
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking function is extracted as a separate, removable blocking element that can be assembled to the actuator head without modifying the fundamental structure of the dispenser device. This approach maintains reliability while avoiding the complexity of integrating the blocking mechanism into the core device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element serves multiple functions: it prevents accidental actuation during carrying, provides a visible indication that the device is new/unused, and can be easily removed when the device is ready for use. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
3Loss of information
If the blocking element is made visible to indicate whether the device has been used, then the indication of first use is clear, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element incorporates visual indicators such as colored tabs or breakable elements that change appearance or break when the blocking element is removed. This allows clear indication of whether the device has been used without adding complex electronic or mechanical indication systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid dispenser device having: a fluid dispenser member such as a manually-actuated pump or valve, the fluid dispenser member being fastened by a fastener ring on a reservoir; an actuator head that is mounted on the dispenser member, and that is movable so as to actuate the dispenser member; and a removable blocking element that, in its blocking position, prevents the dispenser member from being actuated. The blocking element is assembled to the actuator head and co-operates with the fastener ring, or with an element that is secured thereto, through at least one opening that is provided in the actuator head.