Overmolded Tricuspid Valve Dispensing System Corrosion and Cost
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing and dosing systems are costly due to multiple components, not entirely recyclable, and may corrode when exposed to certain chemicals, particularly when using metal springs.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing and dosing system featuring an overmolded tricuspid valve in the container throat and a mounting fixture with improved venting mechanisms, utilizing a vertically disposed mounting plate and a horizontally overmolded vent ring to ensure efficient and accurate dispensing from inverted containers, with a dosing bowl and actuator rod for controlled liquid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If throat plug assemblies with multiple components are used, then the dispensing system functions well, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the throat plug assembly components into an integrated unit where the valve body, valve member, and sealing elements are merged into a single molded component. This eliminates the need for separate parts and assembly steps, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining the dispensing functionality through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The throat plug assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as a closure, a valve mechanism, and a sealing element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall structure, addressing both reliability and manufacturing cost concerns.
2Reliability
If metal springs are used in the dispensing system, then the mechanical function is achieved, but corrosion occurs when exposed to chemicals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces metal springs with a resilient molded valve member that provides the necessary mechanical function through elastic deformation of the polymer material. This substitution eliminates the corrosion issue associated with metal springs while maintaining the mechanical functionality required for the dispensing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member is constructed from composite or blended polymer materials that provide both the necessary mechanical properties for spring-like functionality and chemical resistance. This use of advanced polymer materials achieves the mechanical function without the corrosion problems of metal components.
3Reliability
If throat plug assemblies are used to close the container, then liquid leakage is prevented, but the system is not entirely recyclable
Solution Approach 1:
The throat plug assembly is designed as a homogeneous polymer component that can be easily separated from the container. The uniform material composition and simple integration allow the entire assembly to be回收 as a single unit or easily separated for recycling, improving the recyclability of the system while maintaining leakage prevention through the sealing design.
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 system reduces manufacturing costs, enhances recyclability, and prevents corrosion by using a resilient overmolded tricuspid valve and efficient venting, ensuring reliable and accurate liquid dispensing and dosing without metal springs, thus improving the overall efficiency and durability of the system.
Implementation Method 1
A resilient overmolded tricuspid valve is inserted into the throat of the container which prevents liquid from escaping from the container during shipment, storage, etc.
Implementation Method 2
The horizontally disposed ring-shaped wall of the vent ring has a plurality of radially spaced-apart vent openings formed therein
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing and/or dosing system for use with an inverted liquid container such as a bottle or the like for dispensing and/or dosing liquid from the bottle. The system includes an improved valve which replaces the throat plug assembly of Applicant's earlier patents. The system is entirely recyclable and is durable in use.