Variable Flow Cap Assembly Using Rotatable Compression Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drinking vessels lack the ability to control fluid flow based on user needs, such as volume and flow rate, which can be inadequate for children, athletes, or individuals with varying hydration requirements.
Innovation Solution
A cap assembly with a variable flow mechanism that includes a base portion, a rotatable head portion, and a fluid conduit with a compressible section, allowing for different flow positions by adjusting pressure on the conduit to alter the bore size, enabling full-flow, mid-flow, low-flow, or closed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-dimensional fluid passageway is used in conventional drinking vessels, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the flow rate and volume of fluid delivered cannot be adjusted to meet different user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The cap assembly incorporates a rotatable head portion that dynamically changes the compression applied to the fluid conduit, allowing the bore size to be adjusted between fully open and compressed states. This dynamic mechanism enables variable flow rates without requiring multiple separate devices or complex electronic controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of the fluid conduit's bore size by applying varying degrees of compression through the engagement member. By rotating the head portion, the compression force on the conduit is modified, directly changing the flow cross-sectional area and thus the flow rate, allowing adaptation to different user needs.
2Ease of operation
If the fluid conduit is made compressible to enable flow control, then the flow rate can be adjusted, but the conduit material and structure become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid conduit incorporates a compressible portion made from elastomeric material that can be deformed by the engagement member. This flexible section allows the conduit to be compressed between the engagement member and the base portion, changing the bore size and controlling flow rate without requiring complex valves or mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement member acts as an intermediary between the user's rotational input and the fluid flow control. It translates the rotational motion of the head portion into linear compression force on the conduit, providing intuitive and easy-to-operate flow control while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flow positions are provided for different user needs, then adaptability is improved, but the mechanism for controlling flow becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable head portion provides a dynamic, continuous adjustment mechanism rather than discrete fixed positions. The user can rotate the head to any position between fully open and fully closed, providing infinite flow rate options within the range, which is simpler than providing multiple separate valves or switches.
Solution Approach 2:
The single rotational movement of the head portion serves multiple functions: it controls the compression on the conduit, adjusts the flow rate, and can potentially indicate flow position through alignment features. This multi-functionality is achieved through one simple mechanical motion rather than multiple separate control mechanisms.
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
Enables users to selectively control the fluid flow from the drinking vessel, accommodating different hydration needs by providing adjustable flow rates, ensuring efficient drinking regardless of user factors like age or activity level.
Implementation Method 1
the engagement member is caused to rotate and apply a pressure to the compressible portion of the fluid conduit to reduce a flow of fluid
Implementation Method 2
an engagement member mounted to the head portion and shaped to engage a compressible portion of the fluid conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A cap assembly comprises a base portion, a head portion, a fluid conduit, and an engagement member. The base portion is configured for removably coupling to a neck of a fluid compartment of a drinking vessel and includes an aperture in fluid communication with an internal volume of the fluid compartment via an opening at the neck. The head portion is rotatably coupled to the base portion. The fluid conduit is operably coupled between the aperture at the base portion and an outlet at an upper end of the head portion to enable a fluid to flow therebetween. The an engagement member is mounted to the head portion and shaped to engage a compressible portion of the fluid conduit. The head portion is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis relative to the base portion in a first direction and in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.