Single Actuator Bidirectional Dispensing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual product dispensers are complex and costly due to the need for two actuators to dispense products independently, increasing manufacturing complexity and costs, and lack the ability to dispense one product without the other.
Innovation Solution
A delivery system using a single actuator with two directions of rotation on a single axis to selectively dispense multiple products, employing motion converters that engage differently based on rotation direction to allow independent dispensing of each product from separate chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two actuators are used to dispense products independently from separate chambers, then the ability to dispense one product without the other is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions by rotating in two opposite directions. The actuator connects to both first and second pistons through a shared connection member, allowing one actuator to independently control dispensing from both first and second chambers, thereby eliminating the need for two separate actuators while maintaining the capability to dispense products independently
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of two separate actuators into a single actuator system. The shared connection member integrates the control mechanism for both pistons, combining what would traditionally require two independent actuating systems into one unified actuator that achieves the same independent dispensing capability with reduced complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If two actuators are used for dual product dispensing, then independent product dispensing is enabled, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator is designed as a multi-functional component that can actuate both first and second pistons independently through bidirectional rotation. This universality reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-tested, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining independent dispensing capability
Solution Approach 2:
By combining the actuation functions into a single actuator system with a shared connection member, the patent reduces component count and assembly steps. This merging approach simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces material costs, and lowers assembly complexity compared to using two separate actuators
3Ease of operation
If two actuators are used in the dispensing assembly, then independent dispensing control is achieved, but the number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator serves as a universal control element that can independently actuate either the first piston, the second piston, or both simultaneously by controlling rotation direction. This multi-functionality maintains full independent dispensing control while reducing the number of actuating parts from two to one
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple actuating functions into a single actuator-part system. The shared connection member acts as a merging element that distributes the actuator's rotational motion to both pistons as needed, thereby reducing the total number of parts while preserving independent control capability for each product chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A delivery system for dispensing at least two products wherein the delivery system selectively dispenses one of products using a single actuator having two directions of rotation on a single axis of rotation. The delivery system of the invention is economical in manufacturing and has a lesser cycle time during manufacturing.