Adjustable Mason Jar Lid With Rotating Plates for Resealable Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposable containers with integrally disposed dispensing caps cannot be easily resealed after opening and are prone to damage from metal implements, limiting their usability and refilling capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a jar with a screw thread, a circular ring, and a disk-shaped lid with two rotating plates connected by a tension spring, allowing for adjustable opening sizes and an air-tight seal, enabling multiple pouring options and resealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a movable covering element is used to adjust opening size, then dispensing control is improved, but the lid becomes fragile and susceptible to damage from metal implements
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into two separate circular plates (first and second plates) that can rotate independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each plate to be optimized for specific functions: the first plate provides structural support while the second plate with its pattern of openings controls dispensing, reducing fragility while maintaining dispensing control.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid combines two plates made of different materials or with different properties. The first plate can be made of more durable material to resist damage from metal implements, while the second plate provides the dispensing control function. This composite structure resolves the contradiction between durability and controllability.
2Reliability
If a disposable container with integral dispensing cap is used, then initial sealing is improved, but resealing after opening becomes difficult requiring additional materials
Solution Approach 1:
The lid system is designed to be dynamic and adaptable. The two plates can rotate to different positions, and the opening can be adjusted to different sizes. This dynamic design allows the lid to maintain its sealing function after opening by rotating the plates to cover the opening, eliminating the need for additional sealing materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid serves multiple functions: it provides initial sealing, allows adjustable dispensing, and enables resealing without additional materials. The two-plate rotatable design allows the same lid structure to perform all these functions, making the container reusable and eliminating the need for foil or plastic wrapping for resealing.
3Ease of operation
If the container opening is made larger for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but protection from spoilage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The opening size is made dynamic through the rotatable second plate that can be positioned to either cover or expose the opening. When access is needed, the plate rotates to expose the opening. When protection is needed, the plate rotates back to cover the opening, maintaining protection from spoilage while allowing easy access when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The second plate provides localized control over the opening. The pattern of openings in the second plate can be designed with specific local qualities - some areas with larger openings for access, other areas with smaller openings or solid coverage for protection. This allows simultaneous optimization of both access and protection in different local areas of the lid.
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
The design provides adjustable opening sizes, allows for easy resealing, and protects contents from spoilage, enhancing usability and refilling capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a tension spring having a first end and a second end, the first end thereof being formed with or attached to the second surface of the second circular plate and formed into a raised structure above the second surface
Implementation Method 2
means for attaching the second circular plate to the first circular plate such that the first surface of the first circular plate is in rotatable contact with the first surface of the second circular plate about the second axis
Data Source
AI summary
A container, including a jar having an open end and screw threads on its outer surface near the open end thereof, a ring adapted to screw onto the screw threads for securing an adjustable opening lid, wherein many pouring and dispensing options for materials disposed in the container are possible, including the use of an implement to remove contents therein, is described. The jar member may comprise a Mason jar, as an example, and can be resealed between uses and refilled as required.