Beverage can straw holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Straws often pop out and move within beverage cans, especially problematic for individuals with limited dexterity or mobility, such as young children, the elderly, and those with impaired mobility, due to the design of existing beverage can lids.
Innovation Solution
A device with a base configured to secure to the beverage can lid, featuring a passage for the straw and flanges that form a snap or friction fit with the lid, along with an extending member and optional abutment to retain the straw, and a cap that can be tethered to seal the passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a straw is inserted directly into the beverage can opening, then the device complexity is minimized, but the straw stability deteriorates causing it to pop out and move
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a base component as an intermediary device that sits within the beverage can opening and provides a stable platform for straw insertion. This base acts as a mediator between the can opening and the straw, preventing the straw from popping out while adding minimal structural complexity to the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention divides the straw-holding function into separate components: a base that secures to the can opening and a straw that inserts into the base. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the base provides stability and anchoring while the straw remains simple and replaceable.
2Ease of operation
If the straw is loosely inserted in the opening, then the ease of operation is improved for quick access, but the straw positioning precision deteriorates allowing movement and displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The base component features a specifically designed opening with particular dimensional qualities that provide precise positioning for the straw. The opening is sized and shaped to accommodate the straw firmly yet easily, creating a localized precision interface that maintains both ease of insertion and accurate positioning.
3Device complexity
If no retention mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the straw retention force is insufficient allowing the straw to pop out during manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed to automatically provide retention force through its structural features - the opening dimensions and base geometry create inherent friction and mechanical interference that retain the straw. No additional active retention mechanisms are required; the structure itself provides the necessary holding force through passive mechanical means.
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 device effectively prevents straw displacement within the can, enhancing drinking ease for all users, particularly those with dexterity or mobility limitations, by securely attaching the straw to the beverage can.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one flange forms a snap fit or a friction fit with the opening
Implementation Method 2
The at least one flange forms a snap fit or a friction fit with the opening
Implementation Method 3
The passage may form a friction fit or an abutting fit with the straw
Implementation Method 4
The passage may form a friction fit or an abutting fit with the straw
Implementation Method 5
The passage includes a taper over at least a portion of the surface thereof so that the passage narrows to abut and retain the straw
Data Source
AI summary
A device for use with a beverage can to secure a straw thereto includes a base configured to cooperate with an opening of the beverage can to secure the device to the beverage can and a passage formed through the base which aligns with the opening of the beverage can when the device is secured to the beverage can. The passage is configured to pass a straw therethrough.