Spray Cap Lateral Actuation Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spray caps are not ergonomically designed for easy handling, requiring vertical finger operation and lacking precise dosing control.
Innovation Solution
The outlet channel is attached to a fastening ring via a spring element, allowing actuation by perpendicular pressure, with cams that roll on a curved pressure surface for improved stability and distribution, and a removable protective cap for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vertical finger operation is used to actuate the dispensing valve, then the valve can be actuated, but the handling is not ergonomic and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional actuation direction: instead of pressing vertically downward on the spray cap, the user presses laterally on the side of the cap body. This lateral pressure is transmitted through the cam mechanism to actuate the dispensing valve, making the operation ergonomic like using pliers with thumb and index finger.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cam as an intermediary mechanism between the lateral pressing action and the vertical dispensing valve actuation. The cam converts the lateral force applied to the side of the cap into vertical motion of the outlet channel and dispensing valve, enabling ergonomic operation without directly pressing the valve.
2Ease of operation
If lateral pressure actuation is implemented, then ergonomic operation is improved, but precise dosing control is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic cam mechanism that allows controlled pivoting motion. The cam can be pressed laterally to a specific degree, and its pivoting action translates this controlled lateral displacement into precise vertical displacement of the outlet channel, enabling dosing control despite the lateral actuation method.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the actuation parameter from vertical force to lateral force, while maintaining control through the cam's geometric transformation. The cam's shape and pivot point are designed to convert variations in lateral pressure into controlled vertical displacement, preserving dosing precision with ergonomic lateral actuation.
3Device complexity
If the outlet channel is fixed rigidly, then the structure is simple, but the outlet channel cannot return to initial position after actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local elasticity only to the spring element connecting the outlet channel to the cap body, while keeping the rest of the structure rigid. The spring provides the necessary elasticity for the outlet channel to return to its initial position after actuation, while the rigid cap body and fastening ring maintain structural integrity and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-resetting mechanism where the spring element automatically returns the outlet channel to its initial position after lateral pressure is released. This self-service function eliminates the need for additional reset mechanisms, maintaining structural simplicity while ensuring reliable reset functionality.
4Ease of operation
If pressure is applied perpendicular to the dispensing valve, then ergonomic operation is achieved, but the pressure surface stability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the pressure surface with a curved configuration that conforms to the natural pressing motion of the finger. This curved surface provides stability by distributing the lateral pressure evenly across the contact area, preventing slippage while maintaining ergonomic lateral actuation.
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
Enables ergonomic operation with thumb and index finger, precise dosing, and reduced risk of blockage, while ensuring safe non-actuation during transport.
Implementation Method 1
the spring element being provided to return the outlet channel to its initial position when no pressure is exerted on the pressure surface
Implementation Method 2
at least one pressure surface arranged essentially radially on the outer wall of the outlet channel, on which the cam rolls under pressure when pivoted toward the inside of the cap body
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~3a
Figure 3b~3c
AI summary
The cap (1) has an actuating unit (6) i.e. cylindrical end piece, provided for actuating an exhaust valve (3) at an end of a discharge channel (5). A tappet (7) and a pressure surface (8) are provided for movement of the discharge channel to the exhaust valve. The pressure surface is arranged at an outer wall of the discharge channel. The tappet is rolled on the pressure surface by exerting pressure, when the tappet is swiveled at an inner side of a cap body (4). An actuating head (9) is provided at side surfaces of the cap body to swivel the tappet.