Multifunctional Cap and Work Support System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tabletop support systems are costly, inefficient, and lack versatility in supporting various objects, leading to challenges in applying surface coatings and lubricants, and spray can caps have limited utility and contribute to environmental waste.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional cap and work support system that reversibly connects to a can, providing a stable support for objects with adjustable apices and cradles, allowing for increased stability and accessibility during coating applications, and can be used individually or in multiples, while also being reusable and nestable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art work stand devices are used, then object support is provided, but multiple units must be purchased and utilized together to achieve stability
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is divided into functional segments including apices for point contact, cradles for curved surface contact, and a base for support, allowing each segment to serve its specific purpose while working together to provide stable object support
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the spray can cap function with the work support stand function into a single integrated device, combining object support capability with spray can retention in one unit that can individually stabilize objects
2Reliability
If spray can caps are disposed of after use, then accidental activation is prevented, but environmental waste increases and utility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discarding the cap after use, the invention enables recovery and reuse of the cap as a functional work support device, transforming it from waste into a reusable tool that maintains its original safety function while adding new utility
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a spray can cap to prevent accidental activation, and simultaneously functions as a work support stand to stabilize objects during coating application, eliminating the need for separate devices
3Reliability
If objects are placed on flat work surfaces for coating, then stability is provided, but accessibility to lower edges and bottom surfaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cap elevates objects from the flat work surface plane to a raised position in the vertical dimension, with apices and cradles positioned to support objects at heights that provide operator accessibility to all surfaces including lower edges and bottom areas
4Reliability
If traditional pyramidal stands are used, then object support is provided, but contact with object surfaces may interfere with coating application
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts the essential support function from large contact surface stands, using only the necessary minimal contact points (apices and cradles) to provide stability while removing the excess contact surface area that would interfere with coating application
Data Source
AI summary
A combination cap and work support system includes a lower section configured to connect to a container and an upper section configured to provide a desired support to an object. The combination cap and work support system may be utilized alone or in multiples to support an object above a work surface during a project. Configurations of the upper section generally include multiple apices separated by areas having a reduced height, and configured to support an object directly on the apices, or between the apices, to provide a desired combination of support and stability. The combination cap and work support system may be included as part of a kit in conjunction with a compatible container, such as a can of sprayable surface coating.