Dispensing device for containers, preferably flexible containers for liquids, and assembly comprising a container and said device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing devices for flexible containers, such as those used in Bag-in-Box solutions, are complex, difficult to use, and require multiple components, making them cumbersome and costly to produce and dispose of.
Innovation Solution
A simplified dispensing device with a minimal number of components, featuring a first hollow body and a movable second body that translates to open or close the dispensing channel, allowing easy operation with fewer hands and reducing disposal costs, utilizing a plugging portion and adjustable means to control the dispensing direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional dispensing devices with multiple components are used, then reliable product dispensing is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional dispensing components into a single integrated body with internal moving parts. The body houses both the outlet mouth and the valve mechanism, eliminating the need for separate components while maintaining reliable product dispensing through the integrated plugging portion that opens and closes the passage channel internally
Solution Approach 2:
The body is segmented into functional zones with an internal passage channel that can be opened or closed by the plugging portion. This internal segmentation allows the device to maintain reliability through controlled product flow while reducing external component complexity
2Reliability
If traditional lever systems with multiple fingers are used, then valve operation is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The plugging portion is designed as a movable element that can dynamically open and close the passage channel in response to user input. This dynamic mechanism allows operation with fewer fingers compared to rigid lever systems, as the plugging portion can be actuated by simpler pressing or pushing motions
Solution Approach 2:
The valve mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the plugging portion that responds directly to user pressure. The internal geometry of the plugging portion and passage channel allows the valve to open and close automatically when sufficient pressure is applied, eliminating the need for complex multi-finger lever operations
3Force
If rotating taps requiring both hands are used, then force control is achieved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rotating tap mechanical system with a direct-pressure actuation system using the plugging portion. Instead of requiring rotational torque that needs two hands for control, the system uses linear pressing force that can be controlled with one hand, while the internal passage channel geometry maintains proper force control for valve operation
Solution Approach 2:
The plugging portion provides dynamic force control through its movement along the passage channel axis. The mechanism allows gradual opening and closing by controlling the pressure applied, replacing the need for two-handed rotational force control with a simpler one-handed pressing action that maintains adequate force regulation
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are assembled, then functional versatility is achieved, but manufacturing cost and disposal cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single molded body that houses the outlet mouth, passage channel, and valve mechanism. This integration reduces manufacturing steps and assembly costs while maintaining functional versatility through the internal moving plugging portion that provides both opening and closing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The single body structure performs multiple functions: it serves as the container outlet, the valve housing, and the actuation mechanism support. The plugging portion provides both the closing function and the opening function through its bidirectional movement, making the device universally functional while reducing component count for lower manufacturing and disposal costs
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 complexity and cost of production, enhances ease of use by requiring fewer hands to operate, and minimizes disposal costs through a streamlined design with fewer components, while maintaining effective product dispensing.
Implementation Method 1
a second body (32) that is movable with respect to said first body (24) and can be positioned in a first position suited to close said device and in at least one second position suited to allow said product to be dispensed
Implementation Method 2
During the opening step, the product is dispensed by gravity through the lower mouth of the device
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a dispensing device (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) for a container (12). The device (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) comprises an outlet mouth (22) for the product to be dispensed and comprises a first hollow body (24) suited to define a first passage channel (26) for the product and a second body (32; 232; 532) that is movable with respect to the first body (24) and can be positioned in a first position suitable for closing the device (20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) and in at least one second position suitable for dispensing the product from the outlet mouth (22). The outlet mouth (22) is defined in the second body (32; 232; 532) and the outlet mouth (22) communicates with a second passage channel (34) for the product defined in the second body (32; 232; 532). The second body (32; 232; 532) comprises a plugging portion (36; 536) suited to close the first passage channel (26) of the first body (24) when the second body (32; 232; 532) is in the first closing position and suited to open the first passage channel (26) when the second body (32; 232; 532) is in the second position.