Infuser implement and method of manufacture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preparing infused beverages, such as tea or coffee, often require separate filters or infusers that can be cumbersome and not easily disposable, lacking a convenient and portable solution for steeping dry solids in liquids.
Innovation Solution
A handheld, disposable infusing implement with a planar elongate member featuring a permeable textile container and lid, allowing for easy steeping and agitation of dry solids in liquids, where the container can be filled with single servings of infusible solids and disposed of after use, with a locking mechanism for secure lid placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate filters or infusers are used for preparing infused beverages, then the brewing function is achieved, but the device becomes cumbersome and difficult to dispose of
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the infuser container, filter, and handle into a single integrated implement. The container is formed from a single piece of permeable textile material that serves both as the holding chamber and the filter, eliminating the need for separate filter components. This merging resolves the technical contradiction by achieving the brewing function without the cumbersomeness of multiple separate parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent describes a disposable implement where the entire unit (container with infusible solids) can be discarded after use, while the handle may be reused. This disposable approach resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need for complex cleaning and maintenance of separate filters and infusers, making the system easier to operate despite the initial complexity of the integrated design.
2Reliability
If a permeable textile container with locking lid is used, then secure containment of dry solids is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the implement into distinct functional components: a container portion formed from permeable textile material, a lid portion, and a handle portion. The container is created by forming and sealing the textile material in a die, with the lid and flange pressed atop separately. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with optimized processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining secure containment through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process utilizes parameter changes by heating and pressing the permeable textile container in a die to form the container shape, then pressing the lid and flange atop to adhere. The heating and pressing parameters enable the material to bond securely, achieving reliable containment without requiring complex assembly steps or additional fastening mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If single-serving portions are used in disposable containers, then hygiene and convenience are improved, but the quantity of material required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a permeable textile container that is formed from a thin, flexible material. The container is created by forming and sealing the textile material in a die, resulting in a lightweight, disposable structure. This thin-film approach resolves the contradiction by providing hygienic single-serving portions while minimizing material consumption, as the container requires minimal material to maintain its structural and filtering functions.
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 convenient and portable preparation of infused beverages by allowing dry solids to steep in liquids, with the option to reuse the handle after disposing of the textile container, providing a convenient and hygienic solution for making tea, coffee, or flavored beverages.
Implementation Method 1
a permeable textile container (which in some embodiments is cup-shaped) and a matching lid are removably mounted via a catching mechanism in a structural housing
Implementation Method 2
Filters are used to separate the granular or leaf food substance from the beverage. Non-woven materials for coffee or tea filters, infuser pouches or infuser bags are commonly made of nylon micron mesh fabric
Implementation Method 3
a planar, locking lid is held in place with a catching flange
Implementation Method 4
the permeable textile container's textile chamber part to be heated and pressed in a die
Implementation Method 5
a lid and flange are pressed atop to adhere to the permeable textile container
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable infusing implement for preparing infused beverages, and method of manufacturing the implement. The implement has on its distal end a separately releasable, permeable textile container which holds an apportioned measure of infusible, dried solids such as tea or coffee. The proximal end of the member serves as a handle for directing the distal end into a vessel of liquid, where it can be agitated to aid in steeping tea or ground coffee. After steeping/infusion, the permeable textile container portion may be disposed of and the handle used again. The textile container's permeable cup part is heated and pressed in a die. Infusible, granulated, dried solids such as coffee or tea are apportioned to fill the permeable chamber, and then a lid and flange are pressed atop to fixedly adhere to the permeable textile container, allowing the implement to be packed, formed and sealed from one side.