Container Tool Deployment Mechanism for Clean On-Open Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing containers often require users to acquire additional tools or utensils for consumption or use, such as stirring rods for paint, which is inconvenient and inefficient, as existing solutions like telescopic straws are limited to liquids and not suitable for viscous products or can be damaged when removed.

Innovation Solution

A retractable sleeve-plunger mechanism within the container, driven by inert compressed gas or a torsion spring, deploys a tool or utensil, like a spoon or paddle, from the container's surface when opened, ensuring immediate use without contamination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a telescopic straw mechanism is used in beverage containers, then the straw emerges automatically when the container is opened, but the mechanism cannot be used for viscous products like food or paint and the straw cannot be removed without damaging the mechanism

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic tool deploymentVSAvoidapplicability to different product types

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a retractable tool mechanism that can serve multiple functions across different product types. The tool is not limited to straws for beverages but can be adapted to various utensils like spoons, paddles, or stirrers that work with viscous products like food and paint, making the mechanism universally applicable across different container contents

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by separating the tool from the container structure. The tool is stored in a sealed pocket that is distinct from the container body, allowing the tool to be removed independently without damaging the container or mechanism. This segmentation enables the tool to be adapted for different product types while maintaining the automatic deployment feature

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Object-affected harmful factors

If a sealed pocket is used to store the tool inside the container, then the tool remains clean and uncontaminated, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontamination preventionVSAvoidsealed pocket structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nested doll principle by placing the tool inside a sealed pocket that is nested within the container structure. The pocket is integrated into the container walls, creating a compact nested arrangement where the tool is stored in a protected inner space within the outer container structure, maintaining cleanliness while managing complexity through integration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If the tool is stored inside the container in a sealed pocket, then the tool can be removed when the container is opened, but users must spend time and resources to acquire additional tools when the container does not include one

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool accessibilityVSAvoidtime to acquire tool

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-storing the required tool inside the container's sealed pocket before the product is purchased or used. The tool is prepared and positioned in advance within the container, so when the container is opened, the tool is immediately accessible without requiring the user to search for or acquire it separately, eliminating time loss

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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 users to access the necessary tool or utensil seamlessly upon opening the container, enhancing convenience and usability across various product types, including paints and foods, without damaging the mechanism.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompressed gas: Compression

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTorsion spring: Torsion Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3090960B1Container comprising a complementary system for providing tools or implements for use or consumption of its contents

Publication Date: 2018.11.28 GUTIERREZ LEMA PATRICIO

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AI summary

The invention relates to a complementary system for packaging or containers. The system consists of a device conveniently housed inside the packaging or container, said device storing therein a tool or utensil that is removed when the lid is opened and formed for use by means of a self-locking, retractable sleeve-plunger type mechanism. The complementary system for packaging or containers is suitable for use in all types of industries, business lines or applications in which packaging or containers require additional tools or utensils for the use thereof.