Separable Spray Container Pump Lock for Low-Force Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spray containers where the pump cannot be removed require users to apply force to break a ring-shaped member, which is difficult for those with weak strength, and separate materials like glass and metal or resin require thorough separation and collection.
Innovation Solution
A spray container design with a lock mechanism involving a support ring, fastening ring, and button, allowing the pump to be easily detached by rotating and pressing the button to release the lock, facilitating separation with minimal force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the pump is permanently fixed to the container to maintain content quality, then content quality is preserved, but the pump cannot be removed for material separation and recycling
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing structure is divided into a support ring permanently attached to the container neck and a separate fixing tool with fastening and fixing rings that can be removed. This segmentation allows the pump to remain securely fixed during use while enabling separation for recycling after use.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing tool is designed as a removable component that can be separated from the container after use. This allows the pump and container to be discarded and recovered separately for material recycling, while maintaining permanent fixation during the product's usage phase to preserve content quality.
2Ease of manufacture
If a ring-shaped member with low strength portion is used to enable pump removal, then pump can be removed for recycling, but the removal operation requires excessive force that is difficult for users with weak strength
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic removable state through button actuation. The button engages with the engagement portion to lock the fixing ring in place during use, and when pressed, releases the lock to allow easy removal without requiring excessive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The button acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the lock mechanism. By pressing the button, the user activates the engagement portion to disengage from the fastening ring, thereby releasing the lock and enabling pump removal with minimal force.
3Ease of manufacture
If the pump is made detachable for material separation, then recycling is enabled, but the pump may be accidentally removed during use affecting content quality
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is engaged by default during the product's usage phase, securing the pump to the container. The button must be deliberately pressed to disengage the lock, preventing accidental removal while allowing intentional separation for recycling after use.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing strength is dynamically changed through the lock mechanism. When locked, the fixing ring maintains strong attachment to the support ring; when unlocked by button press, the attachment is released, enabling removal. This parameter change ensures security during use and ease of separation after use.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a spray container capable of removing and separating a pump from a container with a small force after use of contents. An engagement portion is disposed around a button such that a fastening ring crimping a pump unit to a neck-shaped portion of the container can be pushed down by pressing down the button of the pump unit. Accordingly, after all the contents in the spray container are used, the pump unit can be removed from the neck-shaped portion of the container.