3D Display Cup Base Assembly 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, allowing for optical illusions and animations while maintaining a low price and supporting conventional manufacturing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If reflective materials are applied to exterior surfaces of containers, then three-dimensional effects can be achieved, but the cost increases and the solution becomes ineffective for products where exterior application is undesirable
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying reflective materials to the exterior surface of the container, the patent inverts the approach by placing the reflective material on the interior surface. This allows the container wall to act as the transparent medium through which the reflective effect is viewed, achieving the three-dimensional effect without requiring exterior modification or additional packaging layers.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflective material is nested within the container structure, specifically positioned on the interior surface between the product and the exterior viewing surface. This nesting approach integrates the optical effect directly into the container's existing structure rather than adding separate exterior components.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional packaging designs are used, then manufacturing costs remain low, but shelf appeal and consumer engagement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enhancing only the specific interior surface that contacts the product, rather than modifying the entire container or adding comprehensive exterior decorations. This localized enhancement creates the optical effect where needed while maintaining simplicity elsewhere in the packaging structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter of the interior surface by applying a reflective material with specific reflective properties. This parameter change transforms how light interacts with the product and container, creating dynamic visual effects that enhance shelf appeal without requiring complex structural changes.
3Device complexity
If simple labels are applied to containers, then manufacturing remains simple, but the ability to create optical illusions and multi-dimensional displays is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical packaging structures with an optical solution. Instead of using multiple layers, moving parts, or mechanical 3D structures, the invention uses a reflective material on the interior surface to create optical illusions and multi-dimensional displays through light reflection and refraction through the container wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining the container wall material (which provides transparency and structural integrity) with a reflective material applied to the interior surface. This composite structure creates new optical properties that enable the display effects while maintaining the functional requirements of the container.
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 appear to float within the container, entertaining consumers and encouraging beverage consumption, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and compatibility with existing manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
a convex mirror element and a framing element with a primary image positioned proximate to the reflective surface
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.