Cremated Remains Spreading Device Using Pneumatic Discharge

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of reliable solutions to assist individuals in scattering cremated human or animal remains, making the process uncomfortable and emotional for family members or loved ones.

Innovation Solution

A cremated remains spreading device featuring a hopper, conduit, blower assembly, and valve system that uses pressurized air to discharge cremated remains through a controlled port, mounted in a decorative enclosure with a rechargeable battery and actuator mechanism for easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual scattering of cremated remains is performed, then family members can directly dispose of remains, but the process becomes uncomfortable and emotionally difficult for loved ones

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of scattering remainsVSAvoidemotional discomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device introduces a mechanical intermediary system (blower assembly, conduit, hopper) that mediates between the cremated remains and the family member. The remains are transferred through an automated air-flow mechanism rather than direct manual handling, creating emotional and physical distance that reduces discomfort while completing the scattering task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical action of holding and scattering remains with an automated pneumatic system. The blower assembly generates pressurized air flow that propels remains through a conduit and out a discharge port, substituting human hand movements with mechanical air propulsion to eliminate the need for direct contact.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If automated pneumatic system is used to scatter remains, then handling becomes easier and more dignified, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of scattering remainsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device integrates multiple functions into a single unified system: the blower assembly serves both to generate air flow for propelling remains and to create negative pressure for suction; the hopper both stores remains and facilitates their intake into the conduit; the valve system controls both intake and discharge operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the blowing and suction functions into a single blower assembly operation. The same motor-driven blower that pressurizes air for discharge also creates the negative pressure needed for suction when the valve switches positions. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate blowers and suction devices, reducing complexity while maintaining automated operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 device facilitates the scattering of cremated remains with ease and dignity, providing a mechanical solution for a solemn task that enhances the handling and disposition process.

Implementation Method 1

A valve is disposed between the hopper and the conduit for selectively connecting the conduit to the hopper for passage of the cremated remains into a pressurized air flow provided by the blower assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressurized air flow: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS7624485B2Cremated remains spreading device
Publication Date: 2009.12.01 CRANDLEMIRE SCOTTY H
  • US7624485B2 patent drawing
  • US7624485B2 patent drawing
  • US7624485B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed to a cremated remains spreading device that includes a hopper for holding the cremated remains having a conduit attached to the hopper. A blower assembly including a blower and motor is connected to a first end of the conduit for providing a pressurized air flow through the conduit. The hopper is adapted to deposit the cremated remains into the pressurized air flow in the conduit, the cremated remains being discharged from an outlet port formed at a second end of the conduit.