Threaded Spout Tapered Lead-In Cross-Thread Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spouts for collapsible bags used in beverage dispensing systems often experience cross-threading issues when connecting to different service line connectors, leading to leakage and installation challenges, especially due to deformable materials and varying user familiarity in high-volume applications like restaurants.
Innovation Solution
A threaded spout design with opposing threads and a tapered lead-in mechanism that ensures positive engagement and reduces cross-threading, along with additional flanges and wings for secure attachment to various dispensing connectors, facilitating easy and accurate connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a threaded spout is used to connect to service line connectors, then connection reliability is improved, but cross-threading occurs due to deformable materials and varying user familiarity
Solution Approach 1:
The spout incorporates a tapered lead-in section at the threaded portion that changes the geometric parameters of the threading interface. This taper guides the spout into proper alignment with the service line connector during insertion, preventing cross-threading even when users have varying levels of familiarity with the equipment. The tapered geometry self-corrects minor misalignments and ensures reliable threading engagement.
2Strength
If force is applied during threading of the spout onto the connector, then connection tightness is improved, but material deformation and damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded spout includes a tapered lead-in section that performs the alignment and initial engagement action before the main threaded portion engages. This preliminary tapered engagement guides the connection process and distributes insertion forces over a larger area, preventing concentrated stress that could deform or damage the deformable materials of either the spout or the service line connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered geometry changes the stress distribution parameters during connection. By transitioning from a narrow lead-in point to a broader threaded engagement surface, the taper distributes insertion forces gradually, reducing peak stresses that could cause material deformation while still achieving secure connection tightness.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a universal quick-disconnect coupling is used to work with various service line connectors, then adaptability is improved, but cross-threading problems are exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The spout design incorporates a standardized threaded interface with a tapered lead-in section that can mate with various service line connector types. The universal threading allows the spout to work with different attachment mechanisms while the tapered geometry provides consistent alignment guidance across all connector variants, preventing cross-threading regardless of which connector type is used.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a spout for use with a container for holding and dispensing a fluid. The spout comprises a generally cylindrical body having an external surface capable of mating with a collar of a dispensing connector. The external surface has at least one threaded portion that is capable of mating with the internal surface of a collar of a dispensing connector.