Screw-On Throat Plug Assembly for Closed Loop Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing throat plug assemblies for closed loop dispensing systems are difficult to threadably screw onto containers and are challenging to remove once the liquid has been dispensed, limiting the reuse of containers.
Innovation Solution
A screw-on throat plug assembly with a mechanical valve and venting system that is threadably secured to the exterior threads of the container, allowing for easy installation and removal, and featuring a spring-loaded mechanical valve that opens when a connector cap is secured, enabling liquid passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If throat plug assemblies are press-fitted into container throats, then secure attachment is achieved, but removal becomes difficult and container reuse is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The throat plug assembly is divided into separate components: an external thread on the container throat and a corresponding internal thread on the throat plug assembly. This segmentation allows the plug to be screwed onto and removed from the container, eliminating the difficulty of removing press-fitted plugs while maintaining secure attachment during use.
2Strength
If throat plug assemblies are press-fitted into container throats, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation requires significant force and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into threaded components that can be easily assembled by screwing the throat plug assembly onto the container throat, eliminating the need for forceful press-fitting operations and reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of forcing the plug into the throat (press-fitting), the solution inverts the approach by having the plug thread onto the throat from the outside, allowing installation by simple rotational motion rather than axial force.
3Reliability
If mechanical valve with spring means is added to control liquid passage, then safety and control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical valve, spring means, and venting system are merged into a single integrated throat plug assembly that threads onto the container. This consolidation provides safety control functionality without requiring separate components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanical valve automatically opens when liquid pressure builds up or when the connector cap is removed, providing self-regulating safety control without requiring external intervention or complex control mechanisms.
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
Facilitates easy and secure attachment and detachment of the throat plug assembly, enhancing the usability and safety of closed loop dispensing systems for corrosive and medical liquids by eliminating the need for press-fitting and simplifying the dispensing process.
Implementation Method 1
A spring means is associated with the throat plug assembly which yieldably maintains the mechanical valve in its upper position
Implementation Method 2
a dispensing tube extends from the cap to a mixing machine or to some other piece of equipment which creates suction in the dispensing tube to draw the liquid from the interior of the bottle
Data Source
AI summary
A screw-on throat plug assembly for use in a closed loop dispensing system. The throat plug assembly also includes a mechanical venting assembly which ensures that sufficient air may enter the interior of the container as liquid is being drawn from the container. The mechanical venting assembly of this invention ensures that the vent openings associated therewith will not become plugged with debris.