Trigger Sprayer Nozzle Asymmetry Prevents Transit Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trigger sprayers face high risks of accidental nozzle activation during e-commerce transit due to easy rotation between ON and OFF positions, leading to potential fluid leakage, as they are often shipped in soft-sided packages and subjected to vibrations, which can inadvertently move the nozzle to the ON position.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a post with a plurality of flats on the trigger body and a sleeve with matching flats on the nozzle, providing increased resistance to rotation and a positive indication of position change through audible and tactile feedback, ensuring the nozzle is less likely to be inadvertently activated during transit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a generally cylindrical mating structure is used between the nozzle and trigger body, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to easy rotation during transit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by replacing the symmetric cylindrical mating structure with an asymmetric configuration featuring flats on the nozzle and corresponding features on the trigger body. This asymmetric design provides specific engagement points that allow intentional rotation by the user while creating high resistance to inadvertent rotation during transit, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
2Ease of operation
If the nozzle is easily rotatable, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of substance increases due to potential fluid leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric mating structure with flats creates a mechanism where the nozzle can be easily rotated to specific positions (ON/OFF) by the user, but resists inadvertent rotation that could lead to the nozzle moving to an open position and causing fluid leakage. The flats provide tactile and audible feedback to confirm proper positioning, ensuring the nozzle remains securely in the intended position.
3Device complexity
If a cylindrical mating structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates during e-commerce transit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces flats on the nozzle and corresponding features on the trigger body, adding minimal geometric complexity to the otherwise simple cylindrical mating structure. This asymmetric modification significantly enhances reliability during e-commerce transit by preventing inadvertent rotation, while maintaining ease of manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the mating structure by adding flats with specific dimensions and angular positions. These parameter changes transform the continuous rotational freedom of a cylindrical structure into discrete, controlled positions, thereby increasing resistance to inadvertent movement while maintaining deliberate user control.
Data Source
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AI summary
A trigger sprayer for connection to a container or liquid product which is to be dispensed is disclosed. The trigger sprayer includes a trigger body with a first engagement member and a nozzle with a second engagement member. The first engagement member is constructed and arranged to receive the second engagement member. The second engagement member is moveable relative to the first engagement member between a first position and a second position. Movement of the second engagement member relative to the first engagement member between the first and second positions encounters a region of increased resistance