Adjustable-Volume Container With Movable Panel Air Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers often have excess air that can lead to degradation of contents due to exposure, particularly for consumables like food, as they do not effectively manage variable volume needs.
Innovation Solution
A container design with a movable panel that divides the interior into two volumes, allowing manual adjustment to minimize excess air by reducing the storage volume as contents are consumed, and includes sealing mechanisms to prevent airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed volume container is used, then the container structure is simple, but excess air remains in the storage volume leading to content spoilage
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs a movable panel that can shift position to dynamically adjust the storage volume. As contents are consumed, the panel moves to reduce the internal volume, minimizing excess air space and preventing spoilage. This dynamic adjustment mechanism transforms a static container into an adaptive system that maintains optimal storage conditions throughout the product lifecycle.
2Reliability
If the storage volume is reduced to minimize excess air, then content freshness is preserved, but the container structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The container interior is segmented by a movable panel that divides the storage space into adjustable sections. This segmentation allows independent control of the storage volume while maintaining a relatively simple overall container structure. The panel acts as a movable partition that can be positioned to match the actual content volume, eliminating the need for complex adjustable wall mechanisms.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a movable panel is added to adjust volume, then excess air is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable panel functions as a flexible dividing element that can be easily manufactured and integrated into the container. By using a simple panel structure rather than complex mechanical systems, the design achieves volume adjustment capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity. The panel can be made from flexible materials that allow smooth movement and sealing.
Data Source
AI summary
A container is disclosed. The container has a container body including a sidewall surrounding an interior void with opposite open ends. The sidewall retains a movable panel that moves in opposite longitudinal directions toward the opposite open ends to increase or decrease a storage volume. The movable panel may include a manual sealing and locking mechanism. The container also includes a cover that covers one of the open ends and is openable or removable for access to contents. A one-way valve in the cover, sidewall, or movable panel permits evacuation of excess air from the storage volume.