Angled Vent Conduit for Jug Handle Air Intake
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Solution Overview
Problem
When pouring liquids from a jug container, the flow is interrupted by the need for air to enter, causing glugging and splashing, which can be hazardous and inconvenient, especially with caustic liquids, and existing internal vents are difficult to integrate due to limitations in blow molding techniques.
Innovation Solution
An attachable vent with a venting conduit and hollow handle engager that allows air to enter through the handle while pouring, preventing undesirable liquid flow on the vent surface and minimizing splashing, using a bent design and optional second bend to position openings effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If air venting is achieved through the container mouth during pouring, then air can enter the container to maintain flow, but liquid flow is interrupted causing glugging and splashing
Solution Approach 1:
The venting function is segmented from the pouring path by creating a separate air intake route through the hollow handle, distinct from the liquid exit path through the mouth. This segmentation allows air and liquid to move independently without interfering with each other, eliminating glugging while maintaining continuous liquid flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow handle acts as an intermediary structure that provides an alternative pathway for air entry. Instead of air entering directly through the mouth (which interrupts liquid flow), the handle serves as a mediator that introduces air into the container interior through a separate route, allowing continuous pouring.
2Reliability
If internal vents are integrated into the container, then venting function is built-in, but manufacturing complexity increases due to blow molding limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The venting system is segmented from the container body as a separate functional component. Rather than integrating the vent into the container during blow molding (which would require complex multi-cavity or post-molding operations), the vent function is provided by the existing hollow handle structure, separating the venting function from the container manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow handle is given multiple functions: it serves as both the carrying handle and the air venting pathway. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate venting components or complex manufacturing processes, as the existing handle structure is utilized for dual purposes, simplifying production.
3Device complexity
If a straight venting conduit is used, then the structure is simple, but liquid can flow along the vent surface causing undesirable flow patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The venting conduit incorporates bends (curved sections) rather than being completely straight. These bends create changes in direction that prevent liquid from flowing smoothly along the vent surface. The curved geometry disrupts liquid flow patterns while maintaining the venting function, preventing liquid from reaching the exterior through the conduit.
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
Enables smooth liquid flow without glugging, reduces splashing, and allows safe pouring of hazardous liquids by introducing air through the handle, enhancing user safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a venting conduit with a first opening, a second opening opposite the first opening and in fluid connection through the venting conduit with the first opening, and a bend in the venting conduit
Data Source
AI summary
A vent for attachment to the hollow handle of a container is provided to prevent glugging and splashing of the fluid during pouring. The present vent enables the venting of air into the container as the fluid within the container is poured out. The present vent is angled to prevent attachment and flow of liquids on its outer surface during pouring, and to prevent outflow of liquids through the vent. The vent includes a venting conduit or other tube bent in at least one section and a hollow handle engager, such as an elastomeric stopper, to engage the inner passage of the hollow handle.