Bag-in-box Spout Capture Mechanism for Residual Waste Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bag-in-box dispensing systems face issues with residual liquid waste due to the spout not remaining in a low dispensing position without external assistance, making it cumbersome to empty the bag efficiently, especially when access is restricted.
Innovation Solution
A capture mechanism that securely holds the dispensing spout below the base level of the box, using a platform and capturing means to maintain the spout in a low position, along with a shelf to support the box and prevent bulging, facilitating easy insertion into a dispensing unit and enhancing chill transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the spout is positioned to protrude through the box for dispensing, then liquid can be dispensed, but the spout cannot remain in a low dispensing position without external assistance
Solution Approach 1:
A capture mechanism acts as an intermediary device between the spout and the box structure. This mechanism includes a support element that engages with the spout and a positioning element that maintains it in a low dispensing position, allowing the spout to remain stable without direct structural support from the box itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a support element for holding the spout, a positioning element for maintaining low position, and an engagement element for securing the spout. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, solving the stability problem without compromising dispensing operation.
2Loss of substance
If the spout is held in a low position beneath the base level, then complete liquid dispensing is achieved, but the capture mechanism becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The capture mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the spout, positions it at the correct height, maintains it in place during dispensing, and facilitates easy removal. By combining these functions into a single integrated mechanism, the design achieves complete liquid dispensing without requiring multiple separate components that would increase complexity.
3Loss of substance
If manual force is applied to squeeze the bag, then remaining liquid can be extracted, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The capture mechanism is designed to automatically maintain the spout in a low dispensing position that enables complete liquid flow without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism self-adjusts and self-maintains the optimal dispensing position, allowing the system to empty itself completely without user effort, thus eliminating both time loss and residual waste.
4Productivity
If the box is tilted or sloped to urge liquid towards the spout, then dispensing is facilitated, but liquid still accumulates at the base of the box
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the box structure in two dimensions (tilting or sloping), the invention introduces a third dimension by positioning the spout below the base level of the box. This vertical displacement creates a gravitational gradient that completely drains the liquid without accumulation, as the spout is now at the lowest point in the system rather than merely lower than the box base.
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 solution allows for complete liquid dispensing without manual force, reduces waste, and simplifies the insertion of the bag-in-box system into a dispensing unit, while speeding up the chilling process by maintaining the spout in a low position and preventing fluid bulging.
Implementation Method 1
the box is tilted at an angle to the dispensing apparatus to urge the liquid from the bag and box through a tap or spout
Implementation Method 2
A capture mechanism that securely holds the dispensing spout below the base level of the box, using a platform and capturing means to maintain the spout in a low position
Implementation Method 3
speeding up the chilling process by maintaining the spout in a low position and preventing fluid bulging
Data Source
AI summary
A capture mechanism for a dispensing spout of a bag-in-box liquid dispenser. The dispenser is adapted to enable the dispensing spout protrude through at least the base of its box. The capture mechanism contains a component for capturing a dispensing spout of a bag-in-box liquid dispenser. When in use with at least a portion of the capture mechanism cooperating with the box of a bag-in-box liquid dispenser adapted to enable its dispensing spout protrude through at least the base of its box, the capturing component is positioned to maintain the dispensing spout in a low dispensing position relative to the level of the base of the box.