Cremains Storage in Decorative Object via Concealed Recess
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for storing cremains lack a discreet and aesthetically pleasing method that allows the cremains to be hidden from view while maintaining a decorative and utilitarian object.
Innovation Solution
A cremains container comprising a first container with a lid that can be retained in a closed position when inverted, disposed within a decorative object with a recess and adhesive, ensuring the container is fully concealed when placed on an opaque surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cremains are stored in a visible container, then the storage function is fulfilled, but the aesthetic appearance and discretion are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the cremains container within a decorative object, creating a nested structure where the functional container is hidden inside the aesthetic outer object. The container is positioned in a recessed cavity within the decorative object, making it invisible from the exterior while maintaining full storage functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary decorative object that mediates between the cremains container and the external environment. This decorative intermediary conceals the container while allowing access through a hidden mechanism, thus preserving both storage reliability and aesthetic appearance.
2Shape
If the container is fully concealed within the decorative object, then discretion is improved, but access to the cremains becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a pre-designed access mechanism within the decorative object that allows for easy retrieval of the container when needed. The access feature is built into the structure beforehand, eliminating the need for complex removal procedures while maintaining full concealment during normal display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the system into separable components: the decorative outer object and the inner cremains container. This segmentation allows the container to be independently accessed and removed from the decorative object when needed, facilitating easy operation while maintaining discretion during storage.
3Ease of operation
If the container structure is visible, then access and retrieval are simplified, but the decorative appearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the container structure with the decorative object by integrating the container into a recessed cavity within the decorative material. The container walls are partially embedded in the decorative object, creating a unified appearance that hides the structural boundaries while maintaining functional access.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for storing cremains in a decorative object in such a way that it is not readily apparent that the object contains cremains stored therein. The cremains can be placed into a first container and retained therein by a lid that can be attached. The first container can be disposed into a recess that is formed in a bottom of the decorative object such that when the decorative object is placed in its intended resting configuration on an opaque surface, the inner container is not observable and is thus hidden from view.