Liquid storage container

Abstract

The present invention relates to a disposable liquid storage container made of plastic. The present invention separates and isolates microplastics generated from the container itself. The liquid storage container comprises a container body (110), an inclined partition wall (130), and a separation hole (140). The inclined partition wall (130) is installed inside the container body (110). The inclined partition wall (130) partitions the inner space into a liquid storage space in the upper portion and a microplastic isolation space (150) in the lower portion. The inclined partition wall (130) is formed to be inclined downward. The microplastics are precipitated by gravity. The microplastics move along the inclined partition wall (130) and pass through the separation hole (140). The microplastics are accommodated in the microplastic isolation space (150). When a user tilts the container, the inclined partition wall (130) blocks the re-inflow of microplastics. The present invention may further comprise a compartment portion (240). The compartment portion (240) prevents the backflow of microplastics more effectively.

Description

Liquid storage containers

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid storage container. Specifically, the present invention relates to a disposable plastic liquid storage container. Conventionally, there was a problem in which microplastics were generated from the container itself and entered the liquid. The present invention naturally separates and isolates such microplastics using gravity. Through this, the present invention prevents microplastics from entering the human body.

[0002] Recently, microplastics have emerged as an environmental issue. It has been revealed that microplastics are present in large quantities in liquids consumed daily, such as bottled water and beverages.

[0003] These microplastics were not present in the liquids from the beginning. Even if clean, uncontaminated liquid is poured into the container, problems still arise. In other words, the storage container itself becomes the source of microplastic generation. Microplastics separated from the container end up mixing into the liquid.

[0004] Moreover, the amount of the aforementioned microplastics is not fixed. They are continuously generated in real time. Therefore, as time passes, the amount of microplastics accumulates. This is a problem. Users may consume liquids containing microplastics. In this case, the microplastics may enter the human body and cause health problems.

[0005] However, it is difficult for users to give up the economy and convenience of single-use plastic containers.

[0006] In conventional technology, a filter was installed at the outlet to solve these problems. However, it is cumbersome for users to use the filter in disposable containers. Consequently, the actual frequency of use is low. The filter must be replaced periodically. Furthermore, the filter is expensive. Users must always carry the filter with them. There are also issues regarding storage after use. For these reasons, there are limitations to using the filter on a daily basis.

[0007] Furthermore, when liquids pass through the aforementioned filter, the discharge flow becomes obstructed. This constitutes a disadvantage compared to the case without a filter. This aspect also causes users to be reluctant to use the filter.

[0008] Ultimately, these limitations conflict with the very nature of disposable products, which are meant to be used and discarded for convenience. As a result, most people who prioritize convenience are still ingesting microplastics defenselessly.

[0009] (Patent Document 1) KR 10-2021-0078154 A

[0010] The present invention is intended to solve the problems of the aforementioned prior art. The objective of the present invention is to provide a liquid storage container. The liquid storage container has a simple structure. The liquid storage container can effectively separate and isolate microplastics contained in the liquid.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to ensure economic viability. Since the present invention has a simple structure, it can be supplied at a price not significantly different from existing containers. Therefore, the present invention can completely replace existing containers. Consequently, the present invention can substantially prevent the entry of microplastics into the human body.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to eliminate the use of filters. The present invention can prevent the entry of microplastics into the human body without the need for filters. By doing so, the present invention maintains the convenience of using disposable containers.

[0013] A liquid storage container according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a container body, an inclined partition, and a separation hole.

[0014] The above-described container body forms a space for accommodating liquids inside. The above-described inclined partition is installed inside the container body. The above-described inclined partition divides the internal space of the container body into an upper 'liquid storage space' and a lower 'microplastic isolation space'. The above-described inclined partition is formed with a downward slope. The above-described separation hole is formed in the above-described inclined partition. The above-described separation hole connects the liquid storage space and the microplastic isolation space to each other.

[0015] Additionally, the liquid storage container may further include a compartment. The compartment is formed below the separation hole. The compartment accommodates foreign substances that have passed through the separation hole.

[0016] In addition, the end of the inclined bulkhead located around the separation hole may extend into the interior of the compartment.

[0017] Additionally, the liquid storage container may further include an extension. The extension has a tubular shape. The extension extends downward from the periphery of the separation hole.

[0018] According to the present invention, microplastics generated from a storage container can be isolated within the container itself. This is achieved by slightly modifying the structure of the container itself. Consequently, the emission of microplastics is prevented, and users are prevented from ingesting microplastics. As a result, the convenience and economic efficiency of existing containers are maintained.

[0019] Microplastics originate from the characteristics of the container itself. Therefore, it is difficult to prevent the generation of microplastics. Furthermore, microplastics continue to be generated and accumulate during storage. This invention takes these characteristics into account.

[0020] Plastics and liquids may float or sink due to differences in density. The present invention is based on the premise that it applies to cases where the plastic sinks. This is because if the plastic is heavier than the corresponding liquid, it will still sink even if it is reduced to micro or nano levels. For example, microplastics generated from PET bottles, which are primarily used as containers for bottled water and beverages, sink in bottled water and most beverages.

[0021] The liquid storage container according to the present invention has the following specific effects.

[0022] First, the present invention does not require a separate power source or a complex filter system. The invention utilizes a simple structure consisting of funnel-shaped inclined baffles and holes. This structure leverages the natural action of gravity. Through this, the sedimentation and isolation of microplastics are achieved simultaneously. Due to the simple structure, manufacturing costs are low and mass production is easy. Therefore, it is suitable for application in disposable plastic containers.

[0023] Second, the present invention is convenient to use. While the container is standing upright during distribution or other processes, microplastics naturally settle and are isolated. Therefore, the user does not need to perform any separate operations.

[0024] Third, the present invention effectively prevents microplastics from entering the human body. Microplastics move to an isolation space as soon as they are generated. Therefore, microplastics are not discharged together with liquids when they are discharged.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the internal structure of a liquid storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a liquid storage container according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing various shapes of inclined bulkheads according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an extension formed in a separation hole according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIGS. 5 to 8 are drawings for explaining a container according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 are drawings showing various modified shapes of a compartment according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing another variation of the shape of the compartment and the connection structure according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing another shape of a compartment according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a liquid storage container according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing various cross-sectional shapes of an inclined bulkhead according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the presented embodiments. The scope of the present invention includes modifications such as the addition, deletion, or alteration of components.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the internal structure of a liquid storage container having a microplastic filtering function according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a liquid storage container according to the present invention includes a container body (110), a liquid injection / outlet (120), an inclined partition (130), a separation hole (140), and a microplastic isolation space (150).

[0038] The container body (110) forms a main space for accommodating liquids inside. The container body (110) can be implemented in the shape of a conventional bottle. The container body (110) safely stores water, beverages, or other liquids to be applied to the human body. The container body (110) is applied to liquids containing plastic materials that have a settling property. The shape of the container body (110) is generally cylindrical. However, the container body (110) may have a polygonal cross-section such as a square or a hexagon.

[0039] The liquid injection / outlet port (120) is formed on the top or side of the container body (110). The liquid injection / outlet port (120) serves as a passage. External liquid is injected through the passage. Additionally, internal liquid is discharged to the outside through the passage. As shown in the drawing, screw threads may be formed on the outer surface of the liquid injection / outlet port (120). A stopper or cap (not shown) may be attached to the screw threads. This enables the container body (110) to be sealed.

[0040] The inclined partition (130) is installed on the lower interior side of the container body (110). The inclined partition (130) is positioned upwardly spaced apart from the bottom surface of the container body (110) at a predetermined distance.

[0041] The inclined surface partition (130) includes an inclined surface. The inclined surface is formed to slope downward from the inner surface of the container body (110). When the container body (110) is placed vertically, microplastics move along the inclined surface by gravity. The microplastics are guided into the separation hole (140). Afterward, the microplastics move to the microplastic isolation space (150), which is the lower space. When the container body (110) is tilted, the inclined surface partition (130) acts as a barrier. That is, the inclined surface partition (130) prevents microplastics collected in the microplastic isolation space (150) from flowing back into the upper space.

[0042] The cross-sectional shape of the inclined surface may vary. The cross-section of the inclined surface may be in the form of a straight line. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the cross-section of the inclined surface may be a curve that is convex upward. Conversely, the cross-section of the inclined surface may be a curve that is convex downward.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inclined partition (130) has a funnel shape. The inclined partition (130) slopes downward starting from the entire inner circumference (360 degrees) of the container body (110). The upper edge of the inclined partition (130) is tightly bonded to the entire inner circumference of the container body (110). Through this, the inclined partition (130) blocks liquids from flowing between the sides of the inclined partition (130).

[0044] The inclined partition (130) is arranged to have a predetermined angle of inclination. The angle of inclination is set so that the liquid and microplastics can move downward from the inner wall of the container body (110) by gravity. The angle of inclination can be set in various ways depending on the embodiment. The angle of inclination must be an angle at which the microplastics can slide down smoothly by gravity. At the same time, the angle of inclination must be an angle that prevents excessive flow of the liquid.

[0045] The surface of the inclined partition wall (130) is smooth. This is to facilitate the smooth movement of microplastics. If necessary, fine guiding grooves may be formed on the surface. The guiding grooves are formed radially.

[0046] The separation hole (140) is an opening. The separation hole (140) is formed at the bottom of the inclined partition wall (130). The separation hole (140) connects the upper space and the lower space of the inclined partition wall (130). The diameter of the separation hole (140) can be formed in various ways depending on the embodiment. The shape of the separation hole (140) does not necessarily have to be circular. The separation hole (140) can have various shapes such as elliptical, square, or triangular.

[0047] The separation hole (140) is spaced apart from the bottom surface of the container body (110) at a sufficient distance. Thanks to this gap, microplastics can pass through the separation hole (140) and move smoothly into the lower space.

[0048] The microplastic isolation space (150) is a partitioned space. The microplastic isolation space (150) is formed between the lower part of the inclined partition wall (130) and the bottom surface of the container body (110). That is, the inclined partition wall (130) physically separates the interior of the container body (110). The interior is divided into an upper 'main liquid storage space' and a lower 'microplastic isolation space (150)'.

[0049] The capacity of the microplastic isolation space (150) is adjustable. The capacity must be able to capture a sufficient amount of microplastics. At the same time, the capacity is determined within a range that does not significantly reduce the total volume of the discharged liquid.

[0050] The operating mechanism of the liquid storage container according to the present invention will be explained below.

[0051] First, a liquid is injected into the container body (110) through the liquid injection / outlet (120). Then, the container is placed upright. Over time, microplastics are generated. The microplastics settle due to the action of gravity.

[0052] The settled microplastics settle on the surface of the inclined partition (130). The inclined partition (130) is inclined downward in a funnel shape. Therefore, the settled microplastics are naturally guided along the inclined surface into the separation hole (140). Some microplastics may fall directly into the separation hole (140) without passing through the inclined partition (130).

[0053] Microplastics passing through the separation hole (140) settle in the microplastic isolation space (150). As a result, microplastics are collected. The microplastic isolation space (150) is isolated from the upper space by the inclined partition wall (130). Therefore, the collected microplastics are stably accumulated.

[0054] Subsequently, the user may tilt the container body (110) to discharge liquids. At this time, microplastics trapped in the microplastic isolation space (150) attempt to move. However, the inclined partition (130) blocks the movement of microplastics. That is, the inclined partition (130) acts as a physical barrier. The inclined partition (130) effectively prevents microplastics isolated in the lower part from flowing back into the liquid storage space in the upper part or being discharged to the outside. Even when the container is tilted, the funnel-shaped structure of the inclined partition (130) traps the microplastics within the isolation space.

[0055] Meanwhile, the shape of the separation hole (140) may be modified. For example, the separation hole (140) may be composed of multiple small holes instead of a single circular hole.

[0056] Additionally, referring to FIG. 4, the present invention may further include an extension (141). The extension (141) is formed around the separation hole (140). The extension (141) has a short tube shape extending downward. The extension (141) facilitates the induction of microplastics.

[0057] The present invention can be applied to containers of various capacities and shapes. The present invention can be applied using the same principle to personal beverage containers of small capacity (500 ml or less) and household water containers of large capacity (2 L or more). The cross-sectional shape of the container may be cylindrical. In addition, the present invention can be applied to containers of various cross-sectional shapes, such as squares and hexagons. The shape of the inclined partition (130) may be modified to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the container body (110). For example, the inclined partition (130) may be formed in a conical shape, a pyramidal shape, etc.

[0058] According to the first embodiment described above, microplastics released from the container can be isolated. This prevents the ingestion of microplastics. However, there may be cases where microplastics are widely spread across the bottom surface of the container. In this case, a problem may occur when the user tilts the container to drink. Microplastics may flow back up through the hole. The amount of such re-entry may be significant.

[0059] A second embodiment of the present invention is intended to prepare for such contingencies. The second embodiment includes a compartment (240). The compartment (240) is formed below the inclined partition (130). The compartment (240) more completely prevents the re-entry of microplastics when the user tilts the container.

[0060] FIGS. 5 to 8 are drawings for explaining a container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an overall cross-sectional view of a liquid storage container according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the area around the compartment of the second embodiment.

[0061] In the first embodiment described above, microplastics are deposited in the microplastic isolation space (150). However, in an actual usage environment, movement or shaking of the container may occur. In this case, microplastics that were deposited on the bottom surface of the isolation space may be dispersed across the entire bottom.

[0062] In this state, when the user tilts the container to discharge, the result is that microplastics are spread out above and below the separation hole (140) due to this tilt. At this time, the microplastics located above the separation hole (140) sink downwards, and in the case of microplastics passing through the separation hole (140) or near it during sinking, there is a possibility that they may be re-entered through the separation hole (140) and discharged while the liquid is being discharged.

[0063] The second embodiment is intended to resolve these problems in advance. The second embodiment additionally configures a compartment (240) at the bottom of the separation hole (140).

[0064] The above compartment (240) forms a receiving space. The above compartment (240) extends downward from the lower surface of the inclined partition wall (130). The shape of the above compartment (240) may be hemispherical or cylindrical. However, the shape of the above compartment (240) is not limited to a specific shape.

[0065] The above compartment (240) is in direct communication with the separation hole (140). Microplastics passing through the separation hole (140) fall into the compartment (240) and are received. There are no other passages in the compartment (240) other than the separation hole (140).

[0066] The end of the inclined partition wall (130) forms the periphery of the separation hole (140). The end of the inclined partition wall (130) is located inside the compartment (240), that is, within the receiving space. This structure prevents the re-entry of microplastics. Even if the container shakes or tilts, the movement of microplastics contained within the compartment (240) is restricted. This is because a part of the end of the inclined partition wall (130) acts as an obstacle. Consequently, it becomes difficult for microplastics to pass through the separation hole (140), thereby preventing the re-entry of microplastics once contained.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 6, the end of the inclined partition wall (130) is positioned at a downward angle. In order for microplastics contained in the compartment (240) to pass through the separation hole (140), they must move by avoiding the end. However, it is not easy to avoid the end due to its shape.

[0068] That is, the lower surface of the inclined partition wall (130) is arranged to surround the upper opening of the compartment (240). Due to this structural feature, microplastics trapped inside the compartment (240) are effectively prevented from escaping to the outside even when the container is tilted.

[0069] FIG. 7 shows the container in a tilted state. FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged view of the movement of microplastics contained in the compartment (240). FIG. 8 shows the container in a vertically inverted state. FIG. 8 shows the movement of microplastics inside the compartment (240).

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, when the container is tilted, microplastics inside the compartment (240) attempt to move. However, the lower surface of the inclined partition (130) acts as a physical barrier. Therefore, microplastics are prevented from leaking out of the compartment (240).

[0071] Additionally, the internal space of the compartment (240) is formed to be wider than the separation hole (140). Even if microplastics move inside the compartment (240), the probability that the microplastics will be precisely aligned with the separation hole (140) is low. Therefore, the probability of microplastics flowing back is significantly reduced.

[0072] The second embodiment retains all the advantages of the first embodiment. At the same time, the second embodiment includes an additional configuration called the compartment (240). This maximizes the effect of preventing backflow of microplastics. In addition, the amount of liquid that is not discharged and is wasted is minimized. As a result, the second embodiment significantly improves reliability and efficiency in actual usage environments.

[0073] FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10 show cases in which the shape of the compartment portion according to the second embodiment of the present invention is modified in various ways.

[0074] First, the following explanation is given with reference to FIG. 9. In FIG. 9 (a), the cross-section of the compartment (240) has an arc shape. In FIG. 9 (b), the cross-section of the compartment (240) has a straight line shape (triangle). In FIG. 9 (c), the cross-section of the compartment (240) has a square shape. At this time, the compartment (240) itself may not have a slope formed.

[0075] The embodiments illustrated in FIG. 9 have a common feature. That is, the inclined bulkhead end around the separation hole protrudes into the internal space of the compartment (240).

[0076] On the other hand, other forms are also possible. The end of the inclined partition may not extend into the interior of the compartment. Referring to FIG. 10, the end of the inclined partition may be configured not to perform a re-entry prevention function as needed. FIG. 10 (a), (b), and (c) show a form in which the end of the inclined partition (130) is directly connected to the top of the compartment (240). This shape can be varied in many ways depending on the type of liquid contained in the container or as needed.

[0077] As another variation, an extension (141) may be formed between the compartment and the inclined bulkhead.

[0078] FIG. 11 shows another variation of the shape of the compartment and the connection structure according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] As described in the first embodiment above, an extension (141) may be formed around the separation hole (140). The extension (141) is in the form of a short tube extending downward. The extension (141) serves to guide the settling microplastics to move into the compartment.

[0080] If the extension (141) is present, there is a possibility that microplastics may flow back into the main space through the extension (141). To prevent this, the upper surface (241) of the compartment (240) is formed at an angle. The angled upper surface (241) effectively blocks microplastics from escaping from within the compartment (240).

[0081] Refer to FIG. 11 (a) and (b). The extension (141) is formed between the inclined partition (130) and the compartment (240). In FIG. 11 (a), the cross-section of the compartment (240) is arc-shaped. In FIG. 11 (b), the cross-section of the compartment (240) is square-shaped.

[0082] FIG. 12 shows another shape of a compartment according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] In the case of FIG. 12, there is no separate internal wall protrusion to prevent the re-entry of microplastics. In this case, only the compartment (240) is configured. The cross-sectional shape of the compartment (240) is a rectangular shape extending downward.

[0084] In this embodiment, surface tension is utilized. The size of the separation hole is formed to be very small. The size is small enough for the cohesive force, adhesive force, or surface tension of the liquid to act upon. Therefore, the re-entry of the liquid contained in the compartment into the upper part of the container is suppressed by forces such as tension. As a result, the re-entry of microplastics within the compartment into the upper part of the container is also suppressed.

[0085] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment is another structure for separating and isolating microplastics.

[0086] FIG. 13 shows the internal structure of a liquid storage container according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 shows various cross-sectional shapes of an inclined partition wall according to a third embodiment.

[0087] In the first embodiment, the separation hole is depicted as being located in the center. However, the separation hole can be formed at various locations on the inclined partition. In the case of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the separation hole is formed near the inner wall of the container. The location of the separation hole can be adjusted in various ways depending on the embodiment. The location of the separation hole can be formed in various ways not only when the container is cylindrical, but also when it is triangular or square in shape.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 14, the cross-sectional shape of the inclined partition wall (130) can also vary. (a) is a case where the cross-section is straight. (b) is a case where the cross-section is convex in the upward direction. (c) is a case where the cross-section is convex in the downward direction. (d) is a case where an extension (141) extending from the separation hole is formed.

[0089] The present invention described above is not limited by the aforementioned embodiments and attached drawings. Various substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention. This will be obvious to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains.

[0090] The present invention is applicable to the container manufacturing industry. Specifically, the present invention can be applied to the mass production of liquid storage containers for storing bottled water and beverages. The present invention is implemented solely by modifying the structure of the container itself, without the need for separate complex devices. Therefore, the present invention can be easily commercialized through existing plastic injection molding processes.

Claims

1. As a liquid storage container, A container body having a space formed inside for accommodating liquids; An inclined partition wall installed inside the container body, dividing the internal space into an upper liquid storage space and a lower microplastic isolation space, and formed to be inclined downward; and A liquid storage container characterized by including a separation hole formed in the inclined partition wall to connect the liquid storage space and the microplastic isolation space.

2. In Paragraph 1, A liquid storage container characterized by further including a compartment formed at the lower part of the separation hole to accommodate microplastics that have passed through the separation hole.

3. In Paragraph 2, A liquid storage container characterized in that the end of the inclined partition wall around the separation hole extends into the interior of the compartment.

4. In Paragraph 2, A liquid storage container characterized by further including a tubular extension extending downward from the periphery of the separation hole.

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