Tap Assembly With Tamper-Evident Tab For Continuous Fluid Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tap assemblies for liquid containers do not provide a self-closing mechanism that allows for continuous and uninterrupted fluid dispensing, as they typically require manual operation and lack adaptability for continuous flow.
Innovation Solution
A tap assembly with a gland, actuator, and tamper evident tab that enables fluid dispensing from a flexible pouch or bag, featuring a unitized cap and adaptable connector for continuous flow, allowing the tap to remain open for uninterrupted dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a self-closing tap mechanism is used, then the tap automatically closes after dispensing, but continuous uninterrupted fluid flow cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The tap mechanism transitions from a static self-closing design to a dynamic system where the connector can be moved between engaged and disengaged positions. When engaged, the lever is held in the open position enabling continuous flow; when disengaged, the self-closing function operates normally. This dynamic configurability resolves the contradiction between automatic closing and continuous dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational state parameter of the tap by introducing an adaptable connector that modifies the lever position. The connector acts as a mechanical parameter changer, holding the lever in the open position (changing from closed to open state) to enable continuous flow while maintaining the underlying self-closing mechanism intact for when the connector is removed.
2Ease of operation
If the tap assembly is designed for simple operation, then ease of use is improved, but adaptability for continuous flow is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tap assembly is designed with multi-functionality to accommodate both simple intermittent dispensing and continuous flow operations. The adaptable connector serves multiple purposes: it can be attached for continuous flow applications or removed for standard self-closing operation. This universal design allows the same base mechanism to fulfill different operational requirements without compromising ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into a permanent tap body and a removable adaptable connector. This segmentation allows the connector to be added or removed based on the desired operational mode, maintaining simplicity for standard use while providing adaptability when continuous flow is needed. The modular approach enables users to choose the appropriate configuration without complicating the basic operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable connector is added for continuous flow, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptable connector is pre-configured with the lever engagement feature and outlet connection, so that when attached, continuous flow is immediately enabled without requiring additional adjustments or complex assembly steps. The preliminary design of the connector incorporates all necessary elements for continuous flow operation, minimizing the complexity burden on the user while maximizing adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A tap assembly for dispensing fluid from a flexible container includes a gland for connecting with the container, the gland having an inlet and an outlet. An actuator is in fluid communication with the outlet of the gland, the actuator including a lever, a removable tamper evident tab and a cap, wherein when the tamper evident tab is in position, the actuator is inoperable and the lever and the cap are fixedly joined and wherein, upon removal of the tamper evident tab, the lever is moveable with respect to the cap to dispense fluid from the tap assembly. A connector is latchable with an outlet of the actuator, the connector including an arm to fixedly engage with the lever in a raised position.