Spring-Biased Valve Liquid Applicator Closure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid applicator devices are complex in design, require multiple parts for assembly, and are not economical to manufacture, limiting their usability with existing containers and applicator tips, and are not suitable for all types of liquids.
Innovation Solution
A simplified liquid applicator device design featuring a closure with a sealing surface and a spring-biased valve that inhibits liquid flow until the applicator tip is depressed, allowing for efficient dispensing of liquids from existing containers using existing tips, and accommodating a variety of liquid types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simplified liquid applicator device design is used, then the number of parts and assembly stages is reduced, but the device may lack sufficient control over liquid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into three main components: a closure assembly with valve mechanism, an applicator tip, and a container. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity, resolving the contradiction between reduced part count and reliable liquid flow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased valve mechanism automatically controls liquid flow based on applied pressure to the applicator tip, eliminating the need for manual valve operation or complex control systems. The device self-regulates liquid dispensing, maintaining reliability while keeping the design simple.
2Reliability
If a spring-biased valve mechanism is used, then accidental liquid discharge is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex multi-component valve mechanisms from prior art are extracted and replaced with a single spring-biased valve element integrated into the closure. This extraction maintains accidental discharge prevention while significantly reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is merged with the closure assembly, eliminating the need for separate valve housings and mounting structures. The spring, valve seat, and valve element are combined into a compact unit that integrates seamlessly with the closure, reducing part count while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing containers and applicator tips are used, then the device versatility is improved, but the sealing and flow control may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The closure assembly is designed with a universal threading system that accommodates various container types, while the spring-biased valve mechanism provides consistent sealing and flow control across different liquid viscosities. This universality allows compatibility with existing containers and tips while maintaining reliable performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring pressure can be adjusted to accommodate different liquid viscosities and container pressures, allowing the same device to work reliably with various liquid types and container configurations. This parameter adjustability maintains sealing effectiveness across diverse applications.
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 reduces the number of parts and assembly stages, making the device more economical and versatile, enabling effective dispensing of various liquids using existing containers and tips, while preventing accidental discharge.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is located within the closure between a spring retaining step defined in the closure and the valve for biasing the valve into sealing engagement with the sealing surface of the closure
Implementation Method 2
A passageway is defined in the closure for slidably receiving an applicator tip for engaging with the valve to enable a depression of the applicator tip to displace the valve from the sealing surface of the closure to flow applicator liquid from the applicator liquid container to the applicator tip
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid applicator device for dispensing an applicator liquid from an applicator liquid container comprising a closure for sealing with the applicator liquid container. A sealing surface is defined in the closure and a valve is disposed within the closure. A spring is located within the closure between a spring retaining step defined in the closure and the valve for biasing the valve into sealing engagement with the sealing surface of the closure for inhibiting the flow of the applicator liquid from the applicator liquid container. A passageway defined in the closure for slidably receiving an applicator tip for engaging with the valve to enable a depression of the applicator tip to displace the valve from the sealing surface of the closure to flow applicator liquid from the applicator liquid container to the applicator tip.