Two-Piece Trigger Aerosol Dispenser with Tiltable Head

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aerosol dispensers often have complex mechanisms, require multiple parts, and lack efficient actuation methods, leading to increased finger pressure and potential for accidental dispensing.

Innovation Solution

A two-piece trigger operated aerosol dispenser with a non-articulated trigger actuator that can be actuated by either a trigger or depression of a dispenser head, featuring a lock mechanism to prevent accidental dispensing and utilizing a tiltable dispensing head that rotates between locked and unlocked positions for controlled product release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a complex mechanism with multiple parts is used for aerosol dispensing, then the device can provide multiple functions, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemultiple actuation optionsVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the trigger actuator and dispensing head into a single integrated assembly where the trigger is unitary with the dispensing head. This merging eliminates the need for separate articulated trigger mechanisms while providing both trigger actuation and top surface depression actuation options, thus reducing part count while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The dispensing head serves multiple functions: it acts as the nozzle for product dispensing, the mounting point for the trigger actuator, and provides a top surface that can be depressed for actuation. This multi-functionality allows the device to offer multiple actuation methods without requiring additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If an articulated trigger mechanism is used, then the trigger can be positioned for ease of operation, but the device complexity increases and finger pressure requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrigger accessibilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trigger is made unitary with the dispensing head, eliminating the need for articulated joints, hinges, or separate mounting mechanisms. This single-piece construction reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining ergonomic positioning for finger actuation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The actuation function is segmented into two independent methods: trigger depression and top surface depression. This segmentation allows users to choose the most convenient actuation method while simplifying the mechanical design by eliminating complex linkages between components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If a lock mechanism is added to prevent accidental dispensing, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccidental dispensing preventionVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is integrated into the rotational mounting system of the dispensing head. The lock interacts with the rotational degrees of freedom already present in the design, adding safety functionality without requiring separate locking components or additional mechanical systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock mechanism utilizes the rotational movement of the dispensing head between locked and unlocked positions. By dynamically engaging and disengaging during the rotational actuation sequence, the lock provides safety functionality while utilizing the existing dynamic characteristics of the dispensing head movement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2841357B1Trigger operated aerosol dispenser
Publication Date: 2020.07.15 APTARGROUP INC
  • EP2841357B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2841357B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2841357B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A trigger operated aerosol dispenser rs disclosed for dispensing an aerosol product from an aerosol container through an aerosol valve. The trigger operated aerosol dispenser comprises a base secured to the aerosol container with a dispensing head mounted to the base. A nozzle extends through the dispensing head for communicating the aerosol valve with a terminal orifice. A trigger actuator extends front the dispensing head for actuating the aerosol valve upon depression of the trigger actuator to dispense the aerosol product from the terminal orifice. The trigger operated aerosol dispenser may incorporate a lock for inhibiting the trigger from actuating the aerosol valve. In one example, the trigger operated aerosol dispenser may be actuated in an alternate manner upon a depression of the dispensing head. Preferably, the trigger operated aerosol dispenser is formed from a two piece unit.