Rotatable Cap Valve Mechanism for Scalp Applicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hair applicators fail to efficiently open and close the application nozzle, leading to evaporation losses and inefficient liquid application, while also being costly and lacking ergonomic design for scalp application.
Innovation Solution
A hair applicator with a rotatable cap that translates into axial movement, featuring a fork-like shape and valve mechanism for easy opening and closing, along with an inclined application surface for ergonomic use, and a compressible plastic container for efficient liquid dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple cap closure is used, then the device is cost-effective and simple to manufacture, but the application nozzle cannot be reliably closed leading to evaporation losses
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is designed to perform dual functions: it acts as both a closure element and a valve actuator. When the cap is rotated, it dynamically transitions between closed and open positions, controlling the valve member to open or close the application nozzle. This dynamic design eliminates the need for separate valve actuation mechanisms, achieving reliable closure without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cap serves multiple functions simultaneously: it seals the container opening, acts as a handle for user operation, and controls the valve mechanism to open/close the application nozzle. By making the cap multi-functional, the invention avoids adding separate components for each function, thus maintaining simplicity while achieving reliable closure and controlled liquid application
2Productivity
If the application nozzle remains open during application, then liquid can be applied efficiently to the scalp, but liquid evaporation and leakage occur when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The valve member is designed to dynamically transition between open and closed positions based on cap rotation. During liquid application, the valve is open to allow efficient flow. When the cap is rotated back to the closed position, the valve automatically closes to prevent evaporation and leakage. This dynamic control resolves the contradiction between maintaining open access for efficiency and closing to prevent loss
3Ease of operation
If a traditional closure mechanism is used, then the structure is simple, but the application nozzle cannot be easily opened and closed during use
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is integrated with the cap rotation motion, allowing the user to easily open and close the application nozzle by simply rotating the cap. The threaded connection provides mechanical advantage, making the rotation effort minimal. At the same time, when the cap is fully rotated to the closed position, the threaded engagement ensures secure closure, preventing accidental opening while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member acts as an intermediary between the cap rotation and the application nozzle closure. The cap rotation moves the valve member, which in turn opens or closes the application nozzle. This intermediary mechanism translates the simple rotational motion into precise control of the liquid flow, achieving both ease of operation and reliable closure
Data Source
AI summary
A hair applicator for the application of medical liquids, hair dye, hair-care products and/or skin care products for the scalp includes a container defining a volume for storing the liquids, in particular a bottle. The container has a neck, a cap configured to close the container at the neck and having at least one application tip with at least one application nozzle for the application of the liquids. The cap is hollow and comprises a valve configured to close the at least one application nozzle. The valve comprises an inner member that is encompassed by the cap and is rotatably attached to the neck of the container and has a valve member configured to close the application nozzle. The cap is axially movable between a first closed position and a second open position by rotation of the cap.