Collapsible Funnel With Spring-Loaded Arms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional funnels are bulky and inconvenient for transporting and storing, and they lack a portable means for precisely measuring and transferring substances from one container to another, especially when dealing with small or narrow openings.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible funnel system with spring-loaded arms that can be stored inside a container or its lid, featuring jaws for holding a scoop and a funnel spout, allowing for easy extension and retraction for use and storage, and a funnel case for sanitation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard funnel is used for transferring substances, then the funnel can facilitate pouring and transferring, but the funnel becomes bulky and inconvenient for transporting and storing
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel is divided into multiple collapsible sections that can be folded into each other, transforming it from a bulky single-piece structure to a compact segmented design that collapses to a flat or compact configuration for storage
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel incorporates collapsible and expandable elements that allow it to dynamically change its configuration between a deployed functional state and a collapsed storage state, enabling it to adapt to different volume requirements
2Measurement precision
If a standard funnel is used for transferring substances into small or narrow openings, then the funnel can facilitate the transfer, but it becomes difficult to pour precisely measured amounts into small openings
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel is combined with an integrated scoop mechanism, merging the functions of measuring and transferring into a single integrated device, allowing the scoop to be inserted into the funnel body for precise measurement and then transferred to the target container
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel system is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a transfer conduit, an integrated scoop for measuring, and a positioning tool for aligning the funnel with the target container opening, eliminating the need for separate measuring and transfer tools
3Volume of moving object
If a collapsible funnel is designed to be compact for storage, then the funnel becomes easy to store and transport, but the funnel may not provide sufficient structural stability for precise measurement and transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible funnel is segmented into multiple sections connected by flexible joints, allowing it to collapse into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining structural integrity when deployed through the rigidity of each segment and the connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel incorporates curved or rounded structural elements that provide inherent structural strength and stability while maintaining a compact collapsed profile, using geometric shape to convey both stability in deployed state and compactness in collapsed state
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 collapsible funnel system provides a portable, convenient, and sanitary means for measuring and transferring substances, preventing contamination and loss, while being easy to store and transport, addressing the bulkiness and measurement challenges of standard funnels.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured in the at least one extendable arm
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and apparatus comprise a funnel, at least one extendable arm affixed to the funnel, and at least one jam on an end of the at least one extendable arm wherein the jam is configured to hold the funnel in a container. The system, method and apparatus further comprise the funnel which cam comprises a collapsible funnel. Jaws can be formed on an end of the funnel. The embodiments include a scoop configured to measure and dispense a material. A spring can be configured in the at least one extendable arm.