Ergonomic Container Thumb Hole Flange Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hand-held containers for carrying paint and other materials are uncomfortable and unstable, leading to muscle fatigue and a high risk of spills, especially when used on uneven surfaces or while performing tasks like painting.

Innovation Solution

A hand-held container with a thumb hole and a flange extending downward from the top rim, allowing secure grip without finger contact, and a fluid wiping surface with textured elements to prevent pooling, enhancing stability and comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a bail-type handle is used, then the container can be carried more securely, but the user's hand blocks access to the paint when suspended

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure carryingVSAvoidaccess to paint

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is segmented into two distinct functional zones: an upper bail-type handle for secure carrying and suspension, and a lower finger compartment for paintbrush access. This segmentation allows both functions to coexist without interference, resolving the contradiction between secure carrying and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If the container is held by the rim and side with thumb and fingers, then no additional handle is needed, but the user experiences muscle fatigue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle structureVSAvoiduser comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediate structure (the integrated handle with finger compartment) that mediates between the simple container body and the user's hand. This intermediary provides ergonomic support surfaces that distribute weight and reduce muscle fatigue, while maintaining relative simplicity in the overall device design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If the container is cradled against the user's body, then carrying is easier, but the position is awkward and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecarrying easeVSAvoidworking position

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The handle design provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the container to be held in multiple positions: suspended from the bail handle for overhead work, or supported in the finger compartment for lower-position work. This dynamic positioning capability resolves the contradiction between carrying ease and working position versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If prior art containers are held close to the work area, then painting access is improved, but considerable effort is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepainting accessVSAvoiduser effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by extending the handle downward below the container rim, creating a lower finger compartment. This dimensional extension allows the container to be positioned closer to the work area without requiring the user to lift or strain, as the lower position naturally accommodates the painting motion while reducing effort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11420795B2Ergonomic container with thumb hole

Publication Date: 2022.08.23 BERCOM INT LLC

AI summary

An apparatus includes a bottom wall, a plurality of connected walls attached to the bottom wall to define a cavity having a top rim, and a flange extending laterally outward from the top rim. At least a portion of the flange extends downwardly from the top rim. The portion of the flange includes an aperture configured to accept a user's thumb, and the portion of the flange is substantially symmetrical about a center line of the apparatus.