3D Display Cup Base Using an Internal Convex Mirror
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a challenge in creating innovative packaging designs that achieve new imagery effects without increasing costs, particularly for consumer products where applying reflective materials to exterior surfaces is undesirable or ineffective.
Innovation Solution
The use of a visual display assembly in containers, including a convex mirror element and a framing element with a primary image positioned proximate to the reflective surface, creates a multi-dimensional display by combining image components attached to or provided as part of the device, achieving optical illusions and animations while maintaining low costs and supporting conventional manufacturing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If reflective materials are applied to exterior surfaces of containers, then three-dimensional effects and shelf appeal are improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reflective material is extracted from the exterior surface and relocated to the interior base of the container. This allows the container to achieve three-dimensional optical effects without requiring complex exterior labeling or surface treatments, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining shelf appeal.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of applying reflective materials to the exterior surface to create optical effects, the invention inverts the approach by placing the reflective material on the interior base. The optical effects are then viewed through the transparent sidewalls from the exterior, achieving the desired three-dimensional appearance while simplifying the manufacturing process.
2Illumination intensity
If reflective materials and labels are applied to container surfaces, then optical illusion effects are achieved, but packaging cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base of the container is merged with the optical display function by integrating the reflective material directly into the base structure. This eliminates the need for separate exterior labels or attachments, reducing packaging materials and manufacturing costs while achieving the optical illusion effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The base of the container serves multiple functions: it supports the container structure, holds the product, and simultaneously acts as the optical element for creating three-dimensional illusions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and lowers overall packaging costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex packaging designs with multiple image layers are created, then consumer engagement and differentiation are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates multi-layered visual effects by utilizing the third dimension - placing image components at different depths within the container (foreground images on the base, background images reflected on the sidewalls). This dimensional approach achieves consumer engagement without requiring complex multi-layer labeling on the exterior surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent liquid in the container serves as an intermediary medium that transmits light from the interior base and reflective surfaces to the exterior viewer. This allows multiple image layers to be displayed without requiring physical layers of labels, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining visual complexity.
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
This solution effectively enhances shelf appeal by creating engaging, multi-dimensional displays that entertain consumers and differentiate products, while being cost-effective and compatible with conventional manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
a mirror element with a convex reflective surface... The mirror element and primary image are visible through at least a portion of the front sidewall
Data Source
AI summary
An optical illusion device such as a drinking glass/cup for providing a multi-dimensional visual display. The device includes a body with tubular sidewalls extending from an opening at a first end to an opening at a second end. A base assembly is provided at the second end. The base assembly includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a sidewall that together form or define an inner chamber. A visual display assembly is provided with a mirror element with a convex reflective surface or mirror positioned within the chamber with the reflective surface facing the top wall of the base assembly. A primary image element is provided proximate to the reflective surface such that the primary image and mirror element can be observed via the opening in the body. A framing element is included proximate to the top wall of the base assembly including background images facing the reflective surface.