Device comprising sensor-activated dispensing and auditory tone

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional hand wash dispensers require physical contact, potentially spreading germs and are not engaging or aesthetically pleasing, making it difficult to encourage proper hand washing techniques, especially for children and adults.

Innovation Solution

A touchless dispenser with a sensor-activated system that simultaneously dispenses a product and plays an auditory tone, such as music or quotes, to encourage hand washing for the recommended duration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If traditional dispensers require physical contact to dispense product, then the dispensing function is simple and reliable, but germs are spread and hygiene is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegerm spreadVSAvoidoperational simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based dispensing system with a sensor-activated system. The sensor detects the presence of hands or objects without physical contact, triggering the dispensing mechanism automatically. This eliminates the need for users to touch or press the dispenser, thereby preventing germ spread while maintaining ease of use through automatic activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional dispensers use simple mechanical operation, then the device is easy to manufacture and operate, but it is not engaging or aesthetically pleasing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser engagementVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms a simple dispensing device into a multi-functional system by integrating audio playback capabilities alongside product dispensing. The dispenser can play various audio content such as music, educational material, or motivational messages, making it engaging for users while maintaining its core dispensing function. This multi-functionality increases user engagement without significantly complicating the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an audio system as an intermediary element that mediates between the user and the dispensing function. The audio component serves as an engaging interface that attracts users and encourages proper hand washing behavior, while the actual dispensing mechanism remains relatively simple. This intermediary adds versatility without requiring complete redesign of the core dispensing system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the dispenser plays auditory tones simultaneously with product dispensing, then user engagement is increased, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser engagementVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by playing auditory tones only during specific intervals - specifically when hands are detected at the dispenser and during the dispensing process. The audio system is activated temporarily rather than continuously, synchronized with the dispensing cycle. This periodic operation maintains user engagement during relevant moments while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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

The dispenser promotes proper hand hygiene by providing a germ-free, engaging, and aesthetically pleasing experience, encouraging users to wash their hands for the recommended 20 seconds through the combination of automated product dispensing and auditory cues.

Implementation Method 1

the sensor is selected from a motion sensor, infrared sensor, or heat sensor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInfrared radiation detection: Infrared Radiation

Implementation Method 2

the base comprises at least one speaker capable of transmitting an auditory tone

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectroacoustic conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS11683623B2Device comprising sensor-activated dispensing and auditory tone

Publication Date: 2023.06.20 HUNT LINDA

AI summary

The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to a dispensing device that enables sensor-activated dispensing and playing of an auditory tone. The disclosed dispenser includes a housing comprising an internal reservoir that retains the product to be dispensed. The dispenser further includes one or more sensors that act as a motion detector to release a predetermined amount of product from the internal reservoir. The motion sensor further triggers the release of one or more predetermined auditory tones to be played from a speaker configured in the lower portion of the dispenser. Accordingly, users are encouraged to frequently use the dispenser, such as for hand washing and other activities.