Fluid container retaining systems and methods

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a fluid container retaining system that is visibly secure and prevents accidental displacement or removal, particularly in establishments like grocery stores and restaurants, where hand sanitizers and other fluids are often not prominently displayed and can be easily taken or misplaced.

Innovation Solution

A fluid container retaining system comprising a cover and a support mount with a suction cup securing assembly that removably attaches to a surface, along with a stand that secures the container's lower end, featuring a drip chamber and bottle retaining chamber to catch spills and stabilize the container, and an optional adhesive disc for additional securing, allowing the system to be used as a filling device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the fluid container is disposed on a counter or surface, then it is easily accessible and visible, but it can be easily removed or displaced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAccessibility of fluid containerVSAvoidSecurity of fluid container
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining system divides the container support into multiple independent components: a base unit with suction cup for surface attachment, and a separate retaining structure that grasps the container. This segmentation allows the container to be securely held while maintaining easy accessibility for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retaining system introduces an intermediary mechanism between the container and the surface - a suction-based retaining structure that acts as a mediator to hold the container securely on vertical or overhead surfaces while keeping it accessible for dispensing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the fluid container is secured to a surface, then it prevents removal, but it may not be readily visible to patrons

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSecurity of fluid containerVSAvoidVisibility of fluid container
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining system moves the container from traditional horizontal counter placement to vertical or overhead surface mounting. This dimensional change improves visibility by positioning the container at eye level or above, while the suction-based mechanism ensures secure attachment to walls, windows, or other vertical surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If a suction cup is used to secure the system to a surface, then it allows for easy installation and removal, but it may not provide sufficient securing force

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation ease of retaining systemVSAvoidSecuring force of retaining system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges multiple securing mechanisms into one unified retaining structure: the suction cup provides initial surface attachment, while additional retaining components (such as clips, grippers, or interlocking elements) work together with the suction force to create a multi-layered securing system that both simplifies installation and significantly increases holding strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The system ensures the fluid container is securely and visibly displayed, preventing accidental removal while allowing for easy refilling and maintaining hygiene by catching any spills, thus enhancing sanitation and visibility in public spaces.

Implementation Method 1

The support mount includes a securing assembly having a suction cup that is configured to removably secure the fluid container retaining system to a surface of a structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS11673711B2Fluid container retaining systems and methods
Publication Date: 2023.06.13 ISEE STORE INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US11673711B2 patent drawing
  • US11673711B2 patent drawing
  • US11673711B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fluid container retaining system includes a cover, and a support mount configured to cooperate with the cover to securely retain a first portion of a fluid container. The support mount includes a securing assembly having a suction cup that is configured to removably secure the fluid container retaining system to a surface of a structure. A stand is configured to secure to a second portion of the fluid container.