Rotatable Sipping Valve With Deformable Sidewall Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing valves for infants and young children lack a convenient mechanism for parents to adjust the volumetric flow of fluid as the child learns to drink independently, failing to provide a controlled and adjustable fluid delivery.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispensing valve with a deformable sidewall valve control element that rotates within a valve housing, allowing for variable fluid flow adjustment based on suction pressure, enabling controlled delivery through a sipping spout and featuring a detachable cover with integrated valve housing and guide channels for precise fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed sealing valve is used to prevent fluid leakage when overturned, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because the flow rate cannot be adjusted as the child learns to drink
Solution Approach 1:
The valve control element transitions from a fixed sealing position to a rotatable configuration that allows dynamic adjustment of flow rate. The deformable sidewall enables the valve to adapt its opening degree based on suction pressure, providing both reliable sealing when closed and adjustable flow when open.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve control element's physical state changes from rigid to deformable under suction pressure. The deformable sidewall allows the valve to change its geometric parameters (opening area) in response to pressure changes, enabling flow rate adjustment while maintaining sealing capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a deformable sidewall is introduced to enable flow control, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional valve components
Solution Approach 1:
The valve control element combines multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the sealing element and the flow control mechanism. The rotatable body with deformable sidewall integrates the sealing function and flow regulation function, reducing the need for separate valve components.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable sidewall automatically responds to suction pressure without external control mechanisms. The valve self-regulates flow rate based on the pressure differential created by the child's sucking action, eliminating the need for complex external control systems.
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable valve control element with deformable sidewall is used, then ease of operation is improved for flow adjustment, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable sidewall is designed as a thin, flexible structure that can deform under suction pressure. This flexibility compensates for manufacturing tolerances, as the material can conform to the required sealing surface and maintain functional performance within broader tolerance ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve control element likely uses composite materials or material composites that combine rigidity for structural integrity with flexibility for deformation. This material selection allows the component to meet both manufacturing precision requirements and operational flexibility needs.
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
Enables parents to safely and conveniently adjust the fluid flow, ensuring a controlled and adjustable dispensing mechanism that accommodates the child's learning progression, enhancing the drinking experience while maintaining ease of use and cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the sidewall of the valve control element deforms when a vacuum is created in the internal cavity of the valve housing
Implementation Method 2
a user's mouth sucking action applied to the sipping spout
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid dispensing valve is described which includes a valve housing having a wall which defines an internal cavity, and wherein a passageway is formed through the wall of the valve housing; and a valve control element having a continuous and deformable sidewall is coaxially and rotatably received within the internal cavity of the valve housing, and wherein at least a portion of the sidewall of the valve control element deforms when a vacuum is created in the internal cavity of the valve housing so as facilitate the controllable delivery of a source of fluid into the valve housing.