Sprayer Trigger Locking Mechanism With Linear Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprayers are cumbersome for common users due to the need for two hands to operate, with current locking mechanisms being either not ergonomic or prone to wear and tear.
Innovation Solution
A sprayer with a trigger that moves between locked and unlocked positions, featuring a linear spring locking element and contour for easy activation, allowing for efficient and user-friendly control of water flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a trigger with trigger fastening features is used to lock the trigger in position, then the sprayer can maintain water flow, but the operation becomes cumbersome and the trigger fastening features are susceptible to wear and tear during repeated engagement/disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the trigger fastening features from the trigger itself and places them on the trigger receiver instead. This separation allows the trigger to be simpler and easier to operate while the receiver maintains the locking function. The trigger only needs to engage and disengage the locking element, without carrying complex fastening features that wear down.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a locking element as an intermediary between the trigger and trigger receiver. This locking element acts as a mediator that transfers the locking function from the trigger to the trigger receiver, reducing wear on the trigger while maintaining reliable locking. The locking element absorbs the wear and tear during repeated engagement cycles.
2Reliability
If a complex trigger detent mechanism with trigger fastening features is used, then the trigger can be locked in position, but the device complexity increases and operation becomes less appealing for common users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex trigger fastening features from the trigger and relocates them to the trigger receiver. This extraction simplifies the trigger itself to a basic actuating component while concentrating the locking mechanism in the receiver, reducing overall device complexity and improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the trigger carry the locking features, the patent inverts the arrangement by placing the locking features on the trigger receiver. This inversion simplifies the trigger to a simple actuator while the receiver performs the complex locking function, making the overall system easier to operate.
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 provides a simple, efficient, and ergonomic locking mechanism that allows one-handed operation, reducing user fatigue and extending the sprayer's lifespan by minimizing wear and tear.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element is a linear spring
Data Source
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AI summary
A sprayer (100) includes a handle (116) and a valve (106) for switching a flow of the water from an outlet (104). The sprayer (100) includes an inlet (102) for receiving water. The sprayer (100) includes a trigger (110) configured to actuate the valve (106). The trigger (110) moves between a locked position and an unlocked position. The trigger (110) allows the flow of the water in the locked position and stops the flow of the water in the unlocked position. The sprayer (100) further includes a locking mechanism (114) which is activated by the trigger (110). The locking mechanism (114) includes a contour (108). The locking mechanism (114) includes a locking element (112) which moves between a first state and a second state with the contour (108). In the second state the locking element (112) engages with the contour (108) in the locked position. The sprayer (100) is characterized in that the locking element (112) is a linear spring.