Freestanding Solid Dispenser Fluid Diverter Backflow Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solution-forming devices require constant maintenance to prevent unwanted solution formation and backflow into water supplies, adding complexity and cost due to the need for in-line systems and backflow prevention devices.
Innovation Solution
A freestanding dispenser with a fluid diverter and product guide that directs fluid to dissolve a solid product, forming a solution without continuous fluid flow through the device, and includes features like pegs and a V-shaped hull to ensure uniform dissolution and prevent backflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an in-line solution-forming device is used, then solution formation is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase due to continuous fluid flow and backflow prevention needs
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional zones: a reaction chamber for solution formation, a fluid diverter to control flow paths, and a product guide for solid product placement. This segmentation allows solution formation to occur in a isolated chamber rather than requiring continuous modification of the main fluid line, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable solution formation control
Solution Approach 2:
A backflow preventer is introduced as an intermediary component between the reaction chamber and the water supply. This intermediary element specifically addresses the backflow issue without requiring complete redesign of the in-line system, thereby improving reliability while adding minimal complexity to the overall device
2Object-affected harmful factors
If backflow prevention devices are added, then backflow into water supply is prevented, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A simple, inexpensive backflow preventer mechanism is used that can be easily integrated into the reaction chamber assembly. The design employs basic mechanical elements rather than complex electronic or mechanical systems, providing effective backflow prevention while minimizing the increase in device complexity and cost
3Ease of operation
If solid product is continuously removed and replaced, then solution formation is controlled, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The product guide is designed to hold and position multiple solid product pieces in advance, allowing the fluid to sequentially contact and dissolve them as it flows through the reaction chamber. This preliminary arrangement of products eliminates the need for frequent manual intervention to replace products, improving ease of operation while maintaining continuous solution formation and productivity
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 provides a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and repeatable method for creating solutions of consistent concentration, reducing maintenance and complexity while preventing backflow into water supplies.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid dissolves the product and forms a solution
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for dispensing a solution of a solid product in a fluid. A freestanding apparatus comprises an inlet portion through which fluid enters, a reaction portion in which the fluid encounters and dissolves the product to form a solution, and an outlet portion from which the solution exits the apparatus. Fluid may encounter the product from a single direction or multiple directions, and from the top or the bottom. The apparatus can include a fluid diverter for directing fluid to the desired portion of the solid product. The apparatus may be configured to receive a particularly shaped solid product, and may comprise a lid or gate to prevent fluid from contacting the product undesirably.