Container apparatus and method of using same

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Solution Overview

Problem

Beverage sleeves do not offer a solution for attaching to metal surfaces or serving dual functions like a flashlight, limiting their utility and versatility.

Innovation Solution

A beverage container apparatus with a magnetic member and integrated light-emitting device that can be magnetically attached to metal surfaces and used as a flashlight, featuring a cylindrical body made of translucent materials and a light assembly with multiple LEDs and a center light for beam functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional beverage sleeve is used, then the beverage can be held comfortably and temperature maintained, but the sleeve cannot be attached to metal surfaces or serve additional functions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The beverage container apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as an insulating beverage holder and simultaneously functions as a flashlight with multiple light-emitting modes. The housing contains both the beverage container and a light assembly with multiple light emitting devices, allowing the single apparatus to provide both beverage insulation and illumination functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines two separate functions (beverage insulation and flashlight) into a single integrated apparatus. The light assembly is housed within the same housing that contains the beverage container, merging the structural elements and functions of both components into one unified device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a magnetic member is added to enable attachment to metal surfaces, then attachment capability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic member serves dual purposes: it enables the apparatus to attach to metal surfaces for stable placement, and simultaneously functions as part of the flashlight assembly by being integrated into the housing structure. This multi-functional integration reduces the need for separate attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple light emitting devices are integrated, then the flashlight functionality is enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelighting functionalityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple light emitting devices are integrated into a single light assembly that is housed within the beverage container housing. The devices are arranged in specific patterns (e.g., around the perimeter and/or at the center) and controlled by a single power source and switch assembly, merging multiple lighting functions into one coordinated system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The light emitting devices provide multiple lighting modes (e.g., individual lights, combinations, sequential patterns) from a single apparatus, enhancing the flashlight functionality while sharing the same power source and control mechanism with the beverage container housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 secure attachment to metal surfaces and provides a dual-purpose functionality as both a beverage sleeve and a handheld flashlight, enhancing user convenience and utility.

Implementation Method 1

A magnetic member having magnetic properties can be positioned proximate the base end of the container body whereby the apparatus can be magnetically attached to a structure comprised of a magnetic material.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

The light assembly comprises a housing and at least one light emitting device contained within the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS11293634B2Container apparatus and method of using same
Publication Date: 2022.04.05 FUSE LLC
  • US11293634B2 patent drawing
  • US11293634B2 patent drawing
  • US11293634B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A container apparatus can receive and hold a beverage container such as a beverage can or bottle. The apparatus can include a light assembly and can be used as a flashlight. A magnet can be positioned on the outer surface of the apparatus, and the apparatus can be magnetically attached to a metal support structure.