Sensor-Triggered Liquid Dispenser Refill for Metered Tilt Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dispensers for liquid soaps and detergents are inconvenient for use and prone to residue buildup, and existing 'no-touch' dispensers are limited in delivering metered doses unless hands or objects are proximate to the nozzle, lacking flexibility in dispensing methods.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an inclination sensor that triggers the dispensing mechanism when the dispenser is tilted, allowing for metered dose delivery regardless of object proximity, combined with a refill unit design that ensures secure sealing and easy refilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional deformable plastic bottles with dispensing nozzles are used, then the product is simple and inexpensive, but it causes residue buildup and is inconvenient to use
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser automatically detects the presence of hands or objects through sensor means and activates the pump mechanism without requiring manual operation, enabling the system to serve itself by detecting user intent and delivering the appropriate dose of liquid automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The manual pump mechanism is replaced with an automated pump system controlled by sensor detection and control circuitry, substituting mechanical hand operation with an automated electromechanical system that reduces contact and residue buildup
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing no-touch dispensers with proximity sensors are used, then residue buildup is reduced, but the device cannot deliver metered doses unless hands or objects are proximate to the nozzle
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is equipped with multiple sensor means including both proximity sensors and inclination sensors, allowing the device to function in multiple modes - detecting either the proximity of hands/objects or the inclination of the dispenser body itself - thereby providing universal operation across different usage scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system dynamically adapts its detection method based on the operational context, switching between proximity-based detection when hands are near the nozzle and inclination-based detection when the dispenser is tilted, making the system flexible and responsive to different user interactions
3Reliability
If a refill unit with valve element is used, then secure sealing is achieved, but the refilling process may be complex
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser system is divided into separate modular components - the base unit containing the pump and control mechanisms, and the removable refill unit containing the liquid reservoir and valve element - allowing independent manufacturing, assembly, and replacement of each module to simplify production and refilling processes
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
Enables flexible and convenient dispensing of liquid soap or detergent in both stationary and inclined orientations, reducing residue buildup and enhancing user convenience by allowing hands-free operation and easy refilling.
Implementation Method 1
an inclination sensor means which is responsive to the change in the position of the device, particularly an angular displacement with respect to the normal vertical positioning of the body of the device
Implementation Method 2
an infrared beam originating between an infrared transmitter proximate to the dispensing nozzle and a receiver positioned within the base of the device
Implementation Method 3
the annular wall being closable at its innermost end by a valve element biased onto the annular wall
Implementation Method 4
define a flow path from the refill unit, through at least one cut-out portion formed in the top of the spigot and/or the bottom of the valve element and down the hollow spigot
Data Source
AI summary
A dispenser having a base unit with an actuation mechanism for dispensing liquid and a refill unit insertable into the base in an inverted configuration with its outlet lowermost to supply liquid to the base. The refill comprises an annular wall projecting into the base and defining an outlet from the refill. The annular wall is closable by a valve element. The base comprises a hollow spigot and an annular seal surrounding and spaced from the spigot whereby insertion of the refill into the base causes the spigot to enter the annular wall and lift the valve element from the annular wall to define a flow path from the refill to the spigot. The base also comprises a proximity sensor and an inclination sensor each of which may independently or jointly trigger the actuation mechanism causing the device to operate to deliver one or more doses of liquid from the dispenser.