Reusable Liquid Storage Adapter with Secure Snap-Fit Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid storage adapters are prone to detachment from the liquid supply port, leading to potential loss of liquid and inefficiencies in liquid supply systems.
Innovation Solution
A reusable adapter system with multiple engaging portions that securely engage with the liquid supply member using snap-fit mechanisms, ensuring stable attachment and easy detachment with a disengagement tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the adapter is composed of two members coupled with coupling members pinching the liquid supply port, then the adapter can be detached and reused, but the adapter may accidentally detach from the liquid supply port
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is divided into a first adapter member and a second adapter member that can be separated and reassembled. The first adapter member engages with the liquid supply port while the second adapter member couples to the first, allowing the adapter to be detached and reused while maintaining secure engagement through multiple engagement points
Solution Approach 2:
The second adapter member is inserted into and nested within the first adapter member. This nested configuration allows the two members to be coupled together securely while maintaining a compact structure that engages with the liquid supply port through multiple interconnected points, preventing accidental detachment
2Ease of manufacture
If the liquid supply port is fixed by being pinched by the first member and the second member, then the adapter can be assembled, but the liquid supply port is not directly engaged with the adapter
Solution Approach 1:
The first adapter member acts as an intermediary between the liquid supply port and the second adapter member. It directly engages with the liquid supply port through engagement protrusions that fit into engagement grooves, providing reliable mechanical engagement while allowing the second member to couple to the first member for complete assembly
3Reliability
If multiple engaging portions are used to secure the adapter, then accidental detachment is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter engagement system is segmented into multiple discrete engagement points: engagement protrusions on the first adapter member that fit into engagement grooves, and additional coupling interfaces between the first and second adapter members. This segmentation provides multiple securing points while keeping each individual engagement mechanism simple and straightforward
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement protrusions and grooves are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide directional engagement. The protrusions fit into corresponding grooves in a specific orientation, ensuring proper alignment and secure engagement while preventing misassembly, thus adding reliability without proportionally increasing complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A liquid storage (100) includes: a liquid storing portion (110) for storing liquid; a liquid supply member (120) coupled to the liquid storing portion and having a supply path for supplying the liquid stored in the liquid storing portion to a printing apparatus; and an adapter (130) having a plurality of engaging portions configured to engage the liquid supply member.