Hose End Sprayer Grip Repositioning and Snap-Fit Assembly
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hose-end sprayers have issues with user comfort due to the in-line grip and nozzle configuration, leading to kick-back force and water leakage onto the user, require two hands for operation, and have complex manufacturing processes with threaded connections.
Innovation Solution
A hose-end sprayer design with a grip area positioned below the nozzle and hose connector, featuring a pivot switch for one-handed operation, internal conduits for precise mixing, and a snap-fit connection for cost-effective manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the grip area is positioned in-line with the sprayer nozzle and hose connector, then the sprayer structure is simplified, but water leakage onto the user's hand and kick-back force increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the grip area from an in-line configuration to a perpendicular/different dimensional arrangement relative to the spray axis. The grip area is positioned on the housing such that when the user holds the sprayer, their hand is positioned laterally offset from the spray path and hose connection line, effectively moving the grip function to a different spatial dimension that eliminates exposure to leakage and kick-back forces.
2Ease of operation
If a rotatable valve is located on the side or top of the sprayer housing, then the valve is accessible, but two hands are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grip function and valve operation function into a single hand-operated interface. The grip area is positioned and shaped such that the user's thumb or fingers can simultaneously control the rotatable valve while maintaining a secure grip on the housing, merging two separate operations into one unified interaction that requires only one hand.
3Reliability
If threaded connections are used to couple the container to the sprayer housing, then the connection is secure, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the threading operation from the manufacturing process by implementing a snap-fit connection system. The container and housing are designed with complementary snap-fit features (such as ribs, slots, or弹性 elements) that allow for secure coupling through simple insertion and engagement, eliminating the need for complex threading operations during assembly and reducing manufacturing steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A ready-to-use sprayer comprises a container defining an interior compartment for containing a liquid product and having a pin receiver located near the rear portion and an opening located near the front portion, a housing having a main chamber and a grip portion, a nozzle in selective fluid communication with the outlet of the fluid chamber, a pivot switch on the exterior of the housing for selecting a fluid flow condition for the main chamber, and the housing being coupled to the container at the container opening and the pin receiver.