Self-Sensing Liquid Dispenser Using a Piezoelectric Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid dispensing devices require separate sensors for controlled activation and deactivation, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential misuse or waste, as they cannot self-detect dispensing conditions or monitor liquid actuation reliably.
Innovation Solution
A self-sensing dispensing device equipped with a piezoelectric or electromagnetic actuator that functions both as a dispensing mechanism and a proximity sensor, allowing for autonomous control of liquid release based on detected presence or movement, eliminating the need for external sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sensors are used for controlled activation and deactivation, then the device can detect dispensing conditions, but the device complexity increases and potential misuse or waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuator and sensor functions into a single integrated component. The piezoelectric or electromagnetic actuator that dispenses liquid also serves as the sensing element that detects proximity and motion, eliminating the need for separate sensors and reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable detection of dispensing conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the dispensing mechanism (moving the liquid) and the sensing mechanism (detecting proximity and motion). This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by reducing component count while maintaining detection capability
2Reliability
If separate sensors are used for monitoring liquid actuation, then dispensing conditions can be detected, but the device becomes more expensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing function is merged with the actuator component. The same piezoelectric or electromagnetic element that generates motion for liquid dispensing also detects proximity and motion conditions, eliminating the need for separate monitoring sensors and reducing electronic component complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator monitors its own operation and the dispensing conditions itself. By using the actuator's inherent properties to detect proximity and motion, the system achieves self-monitoring without requiring additional external sensors or complex electronic monitoring systems
3Loss of substance
If the actuator functions autonomously with self-sensing capability, then unnecessary liquid discharge is prevented, but the actuator design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator autonomously controls liquid dispensing by sensing its own operational state and external conditions. It detects proximity and motion without external intervention and automatically activates or deactivates liquid flow, preventing waste while maintaining relatively simple design through the use of inherent actuator properties for sensing
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator uses its own operational feedback (proximity detection, motion detection) to control liquid dispensing. This self-feedback mechanism allows the actuator to prevent unnecessary discharge by responding to detected conditions, achieving waste prevention through integrated sensing rather than complex external control systems
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 reliable, efficient, and cost-effective operation by integrating sensing and dispensing functions within a single component, preventing unnecessary liquid discharge and allowing for self-calibration and detection of issues like clogging or empty reservoirs.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric actuator used as a vibrating element for causing the liquid to vibrate so to be accelerated and expelled
Implementation Method 2
said electronic control means and said piezoelectric actuator being arranged to detect presence or movement of an object in the proximity of said piezoelectric actuator
Data Source
AI summary
The present liquid dispenser comprising a self-sensing dispensing device, fabric softener comprising a power supply means; a liquid dispensing element comprising an actuator and a dispensing; electronic control means operable to control said actuator; liquid supply means; valving means for allowing or blocking liquid to flow from said reservoir through said liquid supply means to said liquid dispensing element, wherein said actuator is operable to execute in itself at least a dispensing function and a detecting function, the detecting function detecting at least characteristics external to the self-sensing dispensing device and causing said actuator to generate a command signal, and wherein said electronic control means is operable to control said valving means and said actuator based on the reception of said command signal; wherein said electronic control means and said piezoelectric actuator are arranged to detect presence or movement of an object in the proximity of said piezoelectric actuator.