Collapsible Cigar Smoking Kit with Integrated Ashtray and Matches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cigar smokers face inconveniences with the need for multiple devices such as ashtrays, matches, and match striking surfaces, which can be difficult to find, costly, and pose safety risks, especially when smoking outdoors or in public settings.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible paper ashtray integrated with match strike surfaces, securely attached matches, cedar spills, and cigar spikes, designed to be folded into a flat orientation for easy carrying and use, providing a self-contained cigar smoking kit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices (ashtray, matches, lighter) are used for cigar smoking, then the functionality is complete, but the device complexity and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate smoking devices (ashtray, matches, lighter) into a single integrated cigar smoking kit. The ashtray includes built-in match strike surfaces and has matches securely attached to it, eliminating the need for separate match containers and lighters. This merging of functions directly resolves the technical contradiction by maintaining complete cigar smoking functionality while reducing device complexity and the number of separate items needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional ashtrays are used, then ash collection is possible, but fire risk and sanitation issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable ashtray design that is discarded after single use. The ashtray is made from inexpensive materials and includes all necessary components (match strike surfaces, attached matches) for one-time use. This disposable approach eliminates fire risks associated with reusable ashtrays that require cleaning and maintenance. The low cost of the disposable unit allows it to be discarded safely after use, resolving the contradiction between providing ash collection functionality and minimizing fire hazards.
3Ease of operation
If matches are carried separately, then lighting is possible, but cost and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates matches directly into the ashtray structure, with multiple matches securely attached to the ashtray body. This merging eliminates the need to carry separate match containers, reducing the quantity of separate items needed and the overall cost. The matches are positioned for convenient access and use, maintaining ease of operation while reducing the economic burden of carrying multiple separate smoking accessories.
4Ease of operation
If a collapsible ashtray is used, then portability is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a collapsible ashtray design that can be folded into a compact form for portability. The ashtray includes foldable sides that can be collapsed inward, allowing the device to be stored in small spaces such as pockets or bags. This dynamic folding mechanism provides the necessary portability while the overall simple construction minimizes structural complexity. The collapsible design directly addresses the contradiction by enabling easy carrying without requiring overly complex mechanical structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A cigar smoking kit includes a collapsible paper ashtray configured for being folded into a flat orientation and configured for being folded into a working ashtray, the ashtray comprising one or more flaps configured for wrapping around a cigar when in the flat orientation, one or more match strike surfaces disposed on an exterior surface of the ashtray, one or more matches securely attached to the ashtray, one or more cedar spills securely attached to the ashtray, and one or more cigar spikes securely attached to the ashtray.