Transparent Dip Tube Motion Display for Pump Dispensers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing containers with dip tubes lack a dynamic and visually appealing feature that enhances the appearance during product use, and existing solutions are either limited in visual effect or complex in construction.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing container design where at least a portion of the dip tube is transparent, featuring a motion element that is visible externally, which can move rotationally or translationally, and is accompanied by decorative elements that enhance the visual effect during product dispensing, allowing for a simple and reliable user-operated dynamic display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a dynamic decorative feature is added to the dip tube to enhance visual effect during dispensing, then the appearance enhancement is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by incorporating a motion element (such as a wheel with radial vanes or a translational element) within the dip tube that moves in response to liquid flow. This motion element creates dynamic visual effects during dispensing, transforming the static dip tube into a dynamic display component that enhances appearance without requiring complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the motion element inside the dip tube structure. The motion element is captured within the dip tube's internal chamber, with its motion constrained by the dip tube's geometry. This nested configuration allows the decorative feature to be integrated within the existing dip tube structure rather than adding external components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If the dip tube is made transparent to reveal the motion element, then the visual effect is improved, but the structural integrity or manufacturing options may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the local quality principle by making only the dip tube transparent or translucent, while other components of the dispensing container may remain opaque. This localized transparency allows the motion element to be visible during dispensing while maintaining manufacturing flexibility for the rest of the container structure. The dip tube can be manufactured as a separate transparent component and then integrated into the overall container assembly.
3Productivity
If the motion element is designed to move a defined extent on a single pump stroke, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing the motion element to automatically move a defined extent in response to the liquid flow generated during a single pump stroke. The motion element's displacement is directly coupled to the volume of liquid dispensed, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms, sensors, or actuators. The system self-regulates the motion based on the natural flow characteristics of the dispensing action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the hydraulics principle by utilizing the liquid flow itself as the driving force for the motion element. The liquid flowing through the dip tube during dispensing creates pressure and flow forces that directly move the motion element a specific distance. This hydraulic coupling between the dispensed liquid and the motion element provides inherent control without requiring additional mechanical control systems.
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 design provides an enhanced dynamic appearance and functional indication of product dispensing, with the motion element's movement creating a visible decorative effect that enhances user experience and product visibility, indicating the dispensing of a defined amount of liquid.
Implementation Method 1
the liquid flow causes motion of the motion element located or captive within the dip tube
Implementation Method 2
The downward liquid flow may also causes motion of the motion element located or captive within the dip tube
Data Source
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AI summary
A container comprising a body portion and a neck portion, the neck portion having a pump dispenser thereon, the pump dispenser comprising a pump mechanism, a dip tube on one end of the pump mechanism, a pump outlet on another end of the pump mechanism, the dip tube extending from the pump mechanism into the body portion, the body portion containing a liquid, and a motion element, the motion element being captive within the dip tube and adapted to be movable within the dip tube under the action of liquid flow through the dip tube, and at least a portion of the body portion being transparent, a decorative effect resulting from the motion of the motion element being visible from an exterior of the container. Also disclosed is a method of providing an enhanced display by a dispensing container during dispensing of a liquid from the container.