Snap-Finger Spray Nozzle Insert for Recyclable Aerosol Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aerosol dispensing devices face challenges in recycling due to the non-removability of polyoxymethylene (POM) spray nozzle inserts, which contaminate polypropylene (PP) during recycling, making the resulting recycled PP less pure and less usable.
Innovation Solution
The aerosol dispensing device features a spray nozzle insert with snap fingers that provide pretension, allowing it to remain securely attached to the actuator even if the plastic material relaxes, enabling the use of polypropylene (PP) for both the insert and actuator, facilitating easier recycling by ensuring a tight seal and preventing accidental ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If polyoxymethylene (POM) is used for the spray nozzle insert, then the dimensional stability and resistance to relaxation are improved, but the recyclability of the aerosol dispensing device deteriorates due to contamination of polypropylene (PP) recycling streams
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies homogeneity by making both the actuator and the spray nozzle insert from the same material (polypropylene). This eliminates material contamination issues during recycling, as the entire dispensing device can be processed together in the PP recycling stream without requiring separation of different plastic materials.
2Ease of manufacture
If the spray nozzle insert is made removable for recycling purposes, then the recyclability is improved, but the reliability of the sealing connection deteriorates due to potential loosening under high pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies segmentation by providing a break line that allows the actuator to be separated into two parts: the cap body and the nozzle assembly. This enables the nozzle insert to remain attached to the actuator for recycling purposes, while still allowing the entire assembly to be removed from the container for recycling. The break line provides a controlled separation point that maintains the integrity of the sealing connection during normal use.
3Device complexity
If the snap fingers are positioned close to the cylindrical wall, then the structural compactness is improved, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates due to insufficient pretension when material relaxation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies dimensionality change by positioning the snap fingers at a radial distance from the cylindrical wall, moving them from a position close to the wall to a position where they can effectively engage with the actuator. This radial positioning creates leverage and pretension in the end wall, ensuring reliable connection even when material relaxation occurs. The snap fingers extend radially outward to engage with corresponding features on the actuator, creating a more robust connection geometry.
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
This configuration ensures a secure and sealing attachment of the spray nozzle insert, maintaining a good spray quality and preventing unintended ejection, while allowing for recyclable materials to be used, improving the recyclability of the aerosol dispensing device.
Implementation Method 1
The snap fingers, that according to the invention are located at some distance from the cylindrical wall, allow the end wall between the fingers and the cylindrical wall to be bent to some extent when the snap fingers are placed in their snapped position. This results in a pretension in the end wall when the snap member is snapped behind the inward end of the first guiding rib.
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol dispensing device for placement on an aerosol container having a valve stem. The device includes an actuator adapted to operate the valve stem. A spray nozzle insert is positioned in the actuator. The spray nozzle insert includes an end wall having a spray orifice therethrough. A cylindrical wall connected to the inner side of the end wall is arranged concentric with the spray orifice. The spray nozzle insert has at least two snap fingers at a radial distance outside the cylindrical wall. The actuator has at least two guiding ribs configured to guide each snap finger upon positioning the spray nozzle insert in the actuator. The snap finger has a snap member which is snapped behind an inward end of the guiding rib.