Plastic Spring-Loaded Throat Plug Assembly for Vapor Lock Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing systems for corrosive and dangerous liquids face issues with backflow, liquid residue spillage, and lack of efficient venting when containers are inverted, and they often contain metal springs that hinder recyclability due to separate manufacturing and assembly.
Innovation Solution
A throat plug assembly with a plastic spring-loaded valve that allows for venting and air entry when the container is inverted, preventing vapor locks and allowing for recyclable plastic construction by integrating the spring and retainer as a single molded piece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal spring is used in the throat plug assembly, then the valve can be reliably maintained in a closed position, but the assembly cannot be recycled due to the metal component
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the spring from metal to plastic, transforming it into a molded feature integrated with the retainer. This allows the entire throat plug assembly to be made of recyclable plastic while maintaining the spring's yieldable biasing function through the elastic properties of the molded plastic material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the spring and retainer into a single one-piece molded component. The spring is integrated as a molded feature of the retainer, eliminating the need for separate metal spring components and enabling complete recyclability of the throat plug assembly while maintaining the yieldable biasing mechanism.
2Productivity
If the container is inverted for dispensing, then gravity flow can be utilized, but the venting membrane becomes clogged with liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the venting function from the liquid flow path by providing separate vent ports that are distinct from the liquid dispensing path. The vent ports allow air to enter the container independently of the liquid flow, preventing clogging while maintaining gravity flow dispensing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the yieldably biased valve controls air admission through separate vent ports. This intermediary valve system allows air to replace liquid in the container without the venting membrane contacting the liquid directly, preventing crystallization and clogging.
3Reliability
If a separate retainer and metal spring are used, then the valve mechanism can be reliably assembled, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the retainer and spring into a single one-piece molded component. The spring is formed as an integrated molded feature of the retainer, reducing the number of parts from two separate components to one unified structure. This simplifies manufacturing while maintaining the yieldable biasing mechanism's reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The molded retainer structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework for the valve mechanism, incorporates the yieldable spring element, and integrates the vent port features. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity of the assembly while maintaining reliable operation.
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 ensures reliable and safe dispensing by preventing backflow and residue spillage, enabling efficient venting and recyclability, while maintaining continuous gravity flow and preventing vapor locks.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is provided in the plug member in engagement with the valve means to yieldably urge the valve to its closed position
Implementation Method 2
the container is inverted with the liquid product gravity flowing from the lower end thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing system for use on a liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dispensing the liquid contents from the bottle. The outlet opening of the container is closed by the improved throat plug assembly of this invention having a valve positioned therein which is open when the container is mounted in a dispensing fixture which is closed when the container is not mounted on the dispensing system. A plastic spring yieldably urges the valve to its closed position. In the preferred embodiment, a retainer and plastic spring are of one-piece molded construction. The throat plug assembly also includes a specifically shaped valve which is opened slightly when the container is being stored or transported to vent vapor pressure from within the container should the same be necessary.