Deformable Funnel Kit for Viscous Liquid Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for transferring viscous liquids between containers, such as ketchup and shampoo bottles, are either too expensive, over-designed, or not versatile enough to handle bottles of different sizes or those with short necks, leading to inefficiencies and waste.
Innovation Solution
A funnel kit comprising two configurable funnels made of resilient, deformable material that can securely connect bottles of varying sizes, allowing for efficient transfer of viscous liquids by ensuring a snug fit and preventing blockages, with a design that accommodates bottles with short necks and different dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used to transfer viscous liquids between containers, then the transfer can be achieved, but the devices are expensive, over-designed, and not versatile for bottles of different sizes or short necks
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel kit employs nested funnels of different sizes that can be inserted one inside another. The smaller funnel (first funnel) fits within the larger funnel (second funnel), creating a compact, space-efficient design that accommodates multiple bottle configurations while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel kit is designed to be universally applicable to various bottle types and sizes. By providing multiple funnel sizes that can be combined in different configurations, the system handles diverse applications including ketchup bottles, shampoo bottles, and other containers with different neck dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used to transfer viscous liquids, then transfer is possible, but they cannot handle bottles of different sizes or short necks
Solution Approach 1:
The nested funnel configuration allows the smaller funnel to extend into the larger funnel, creating an extended reach that accommodates short-necked bottles and various bottle size combinations. This ensures proper sealing and connection for complete liquid transfer without leaving residue.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel kit allows dynamic configuration by selecting and combining different funnel sizes based on the specific bottle dimensions. Users can adapt the funnel arrangement to match various bottle neck sizes and lengths, ensuring optimal fit and complete transfer for each application.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing devices are used, then transfer function is provided, but they are expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple simple funnel components that can be manufactured independently using basic molding processes. Each funnel is a simple conical structure that can be produced at low cost, and the segmented design allows for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining reliable liquid transfer function.
Solution Approach 2:
The funnels are designed as simple, inexpensive components that can be manufactured from common materials like plastic or rubber. The simplicity of each individual funnel component allows for cost-effective production while the set as a whole provides durable, reliable service across multiple uses.
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 efficient transfer of viscous liquids from nearly empty bottles to full ones, reducing waste and allowing for the use of bottles with short necks, by maintaining a stable connection and preventing blockages, thus facilitating complete emptying without the need for prolonged upside-down pouring.
Implementation Method 1
A funnel kit comprising two configurable funnels made of resilient, deformable material that can securely connect bottles of varying sizes
Data Source
AI summary
A funnel kit used to transfer liquids such as ketchup, shampoo, oil, etc., from one bottle to another bottle. It functions like a funnel but its structure and material composition (plastic/rubber) allows it to hold both bottles so that they would stay in place. Usually, the top bottle has very little liquid and the bottom bottle is almost full. The weight of the fuller bottom bottle would insure that the system would not topple over. This saves the unused liquid instead of throwing it out. Combining several similar devices allows for the transfer of viscous liquid from a smaller bottle to a bigger bottle and vice-versa.