Universal Liquid Dispensing Device with Modular Valve Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Liquid dispensing devices for bag-in-box packagings, such as those for beverages, face user-friendliness issues due to varying valve types requiring different operation methods, with suboptimal tactile and ergonomic properties, and lack of compatibility with different spigot types.
Innovation Solution
A universal liquid dispensing device with a modular valve assembly and adapter system that allows for a single operation method across different spigot types, featuring a removable valve assembly and adapter parts with locking mechanisms for secure connections, and optional aeration functionality, along with a support system for the flexible bag and indicators for liquid level and bag type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different types of valves are used for different spigot types, then compatibility with various spigot types is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring different operation methods for each valve type
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single valve assembly that can accommodate multiple spigot types through interchangeable adapter parts. The valve body is designed with a standardized interface that accepts different adapters, each configured for a specific spigot type. This allows one universal valve mechanism to perform multiple functions across different bag types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized valves while maintaining ease of operation through consistent actuation methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the valve system into modular components: a universal valve body and interchangeable adapter parts. Each adapter is designed to fit a specific spigot type, while the valve body remains consistent. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple spigot types without complicating the main valve mechanism, as users simply swap adapters rather than dealing with entirely different valve types.
2Ease of operation
If a universal valve design is used for all spigot types, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to accommodate different spigot configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces adapter parts as intermediary components between the universal valve body and various spigot types. These adapters act as mediators that translate between the standardized valve interface and diverse spigot configurations. The adapter with the spout receives different spigot types, while the valve body provides consistent actuation, thus bridging the gap between universal operation and specific compatibility requirements.
3Reliability
If the valve assembly is permanently fixed in the housing, then connection stability is improved, but ease of repair and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the valve assembly with a movable, removable connection to the housing rather than a permanent fixed connection. The valve body can be detached and replaced through a receiving opening in the housing, allowing dynamic reconfiguration. This enables users to remove and replace valve assemblies or adapters as needed, combining operational stability during use with ease of maintenance and adaptability when repairs or upgrades are required.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A liquid dispensing device for use with a flexible bag containing a liquid and having a spigot connected thereto includes a housing, a valve assembly and a member. The housing includes an upper part having a receiver configured to receive the spigot. The valve assembly is housed within the receiver and includes a liquid channel and a valve. The liquid channel has an inner end configured to connect to the spigot, and an outer end opposite the inner end. The valve, which is positioned closer to the outer end than the inner end, includes a closed position, in which a flow of the liquid through the liquid channel is prevented, and an open position for dispensing the liquid through the liquid channel. The member is configured to keep the spigot in a permanent open position when the spigot is connected to the inner end of the liquid channel.