Flat Measuring Apparatus with Hinges for Compact Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measuring tools, such as cups and spoons, are cumbersome, require multiple parts for different measurements, and are difficult to clean and store efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A flat apparatus with marked hinges that can be bent to form different scoop capacities, allowing for flexible measurement of various substances and easy storage and cleaning, made from a single piece of material.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional measuring cups and spoons are used, then measurement function is provided, but space occupation and storage complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement functionVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The flat measuring apparatus is segmented into multiple functional zones marked with different volume measurements (e.g., 10ml, 20ml, 30ml markings). By folding along designated hinge lines, different segments form enclosed scoops of corresponding volumes, allowing one flat object to provide multiple measurement functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus transitions from a two-dimensional flat state for storage to a three-dimensional folded state for measurement. This dimensional transformation allows the object to occupy minimal space when stored flat while providing functional volume when folded into scoop shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple separate tools are used for different measurement quantities, then precise measurement is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidnumber of parts

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flat measuring apparatus is designed as a universal tool that can measure multiple volumes (10ml, 20ml, 30ml, etc.) through different folding configurations. The apparatus includes multiple hinge lines and volume markings that enable a single object to perform the function of multiple separate measuring tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If enclosed measuring spaces are used, then volume measurement is provided, but cleaning difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevolume measurementVSAvoidcleaning ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus features dynamic, flexible hinges that allow the flat structure to be folded into various scoop configurations and then unfolded for cleaning. The flexible material and hinge design enable the enclosed spaces to be opened and flattened, making them accessible for washing and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable measuring tools with multiple parts are used, then measurement versatility is improved, but structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement versatilityVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple measuring functions are merged into a single flat apparatus. Different volume measurements (10ml, 20ml, 30ml, etc.) are integrated into one object through strategic placement of hinge lines and volume markings, eliminating the need for multiple separate adjustable tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10175084B2Flat measuring apparatus with plurality of hinges

Publication Date: 2019.01.08 AGARWAL RAHUL

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a flat apparatus for measuring volume of a substance formulated in any or combination of a solid formulation, a liquid formulation, a semi-solid formulation, a semi-liquid formulation. The apparatus has a surface with defined measurement markings, hinges configured to bend the apparatus according to determined by marking of measurements and create predetermined capacity to hold a substance.