Dispensing and mixing device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing containers that function as cutlery have limitations, such as inability to adjust the quantity of substance dispensed, require hot sealing that alters the substance's quality, and are difficult to produce using conventional processes.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing and mixing device with a cavity that can be opened and closed by user-controlled pressure, eliminating the need for hot sealing and allowing easy adjustment of substance quantity, featuring an elastically deformable design and interference-fit restraining means for simple assembly and production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hot sealing is used to close the cavity containing the substance, then the cavity is sealed effectively, but the high temperatures alter the characteristics of the substance and reduce its quality and effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the thermal sealing system (hot sealing) with a mechanical sealing system. The cavity is closed by a lid that engages with the container body through mechanical interference fits and snap-fit features, eliminating the need for high-temperature sealing while maintaining effective closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sealing parameter from thermal (temperature-based) to mechanical (force-based). Instead of using heat to seal the cavity, the invention uses mechanical engagement features such as interference fits, snap-fits, and friction-based retention to achieve effective sealing without temperature exposure.
2Reliability
If the cavity is designed to hold a preset dose of substance, then the substance is contained securely, but it is not possible to adjust the quantity desired by the user once the cavity is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static cavity design into a dynamic system where the lid can be partially opened or opened to varying degrees. The mechanical retention features allow the lid to remain engaged while permitting controlled access to the substance, enabling users to adjust the quantity dispensed based on their needs while maintaining secure containment when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sealing function from the containment function. The lid and cavity are designed with mechanical engagement features that allow the lid to be positioned at different opening degrees, creating segmented access states (fully closed, partially open, fully open) that enable both secure containment and flexible quantity adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the dispensing container is designed with integrated cutlery function, then the device combines multiple functions, but it is difficult to produce and assemble using conventional processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integrated device into separate functional components: the container body with cavity, the lid with retention features, and the cutlery element. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using conventional processes independently, then assembled through standardized mechanical engagement features, reducing overall production complexity while maintaining multi-functionality.
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 precise control over substance quantity, maintains substance quality, and simplifies production using conventional processes, allowing intuitive operation and easy adjustment of dispensing quantity without altering the substance's characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
the first side wall and the second side wall are shaped at least partially convergent toward the bottom of the grooved portion (16) so that when pressure is applied to the first side wall and to the second side wall, their elastic deformation causes the lifting of the flap (30)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4B
Figure 5A~5D
AI summary
The present invention refers to a dispensing and mixing device (10) comprising at least a functional portion (12), a handle (14) that defines a cavity (20) containing a substance adapted to be administered by the dispensing and mixing device (10) by means of the opening of a flap (30), wherein the handle (14) comprises a grooved portion (16) and a lid (18) adapted to overlap and engage mechanically with each other to operatively define the closed cavity (20), and moreover, the flap (30) is elastically deformable and adapted to alternately open the cavity (20) when it is urged and to close the cavity (20) when it is not urged.