Multiple Spray Actuator Overcap with Sealed Selector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-spray fluid dispensing devices fail to reliably seal between the valve stem and the socket, leading to inconsistent spray patterns and inadvertent drooling after the overcap is released.
Innovation Solution
An actuator overcap with multiple spray paths and a user-energized seal that reliably seals between the spray paths, featuring a hub with a chamber and barrels defining flow paths and discharge orifices, along with a pivotable trigger and selector mechanism to adjust spray patterns, and a spring rib for disengaging the valve stem to prevent post-use drool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional multi-spray devices are used to change spray patterns, then spray pattern versatility is improved, but sealing reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The overcap is divided into multiple spray paths (first spray path, second spray path) with separate barrels and discharge orifices, allowing independent control of each spray pattern while maintaining reliable sealing through dedicated seal locations for each path
Solution Approach 2:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary element between the valve stem and the spray paths, and between the spray paths and the environment. This seal member reliably prevents fluid leakage while allowing the overcap to switch between different spray patterns
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple barrels and sockets are used to change spray patterns, then spray pattern versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple spray paths are merged into a single overcap structure with a common valve stem connection. The first barrel and second barrel are integrated into one hub, sharing common sealing and actuation mechanisms, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining multi-spray capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single overcap structure serves multiple functions: it houses the valve stem connection, contains multiple spray paths, provides sealing surfaces, and enables pattern selection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each spray path
3Device complexity
If conventional overcaps are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but post-use drooling occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A spring rib is incorporated into the overcap structure that automatically acts against post-use drooling. When the trigger is released, the spring rib returns to its original position, applying preliminary anti-action to prevent fluid from dripping from the discharge orifices after spraying stops
Data Source
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AI summary
An actuator overcap for producing multiple spray patterns includes a cap having a hub with a lower surface defining a socket and an upper surface defining a chamber fluidly communicating with the socket. First and second barrels extend between the hub and a side wall of the cap to define first and second flow paths. A trigger is pivotably coupled to the cap and includes a seal support. A selector is coupled to the trigger, and includes a user-engageable pad and a seal. The seal is configured to closely fit within the hub chamber and defines a central aperture fluidly communicating with the hub chamber and a first notch extending radially outwardly from and fluidly communicating with the central aperture. The trigger and selector are pivotable with respect to the cap to place the first notch in fluid communication with one of the first and second flow paths.