Foldable Lid Container with Hinged Access and Friction Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional food storage containers require full separation of the lid from the base for access, leading to difficulties in consuming contents on-the-go, increased risk of spillage and contamination, and additional space requirements, which are drawbacks for consumers in a society that increasingly eats on the move.
Innovation Solution
A container system with a friction-fit lid that folds partially along a hinge, allowing access to the contents while maintaining the base's footprint, utilizing protrusions on the base and mating features on the lid for a secure press-fit attachment, and optionally including a dividing wall for compartmentalization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is fully separated from the base to provide access to contents, then access to contents is achieved, but additional space is required for placing the separated lid and the risk of spillage and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into a first portion and a second portion connected by a hinge, allowing the first portion to be opened while the second portion remains attached to the base. This segmentation enables partial access to contents without fully separating the lid, eliminating the need for additional space to place a completely detached lid.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid transitions from a static fully-attached state to a dynamic partially-opened state through the hinge mechanism. The first portion can be lifted and folded back while remaining connected, providing dynamic access control without complete separation and reducing space requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is fully separated from the base to provide access to contents, then access to contents is achieved, but the risk of spillage and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the lid into two portions connected by a hinge, the system allows controlled access through the first portion while the second portion remains attached to the base, maintaining a barrier that reduces spillage and contamination risk compared to complete separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge acts as an intermediary mechanism that allows the first portion of the lid to be opened while maintaining connection to the base through the second portion. This intermediary connection provides controlled access while minimizing the harmful effects of complete lid removal.
3Area of stationary object
If the lid is designed with a hinge for partial opening, then space requirements are reduced and controlled access is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is segmented into two portions connected by a hinge, adding structural complexity but enabling the space-saving partial opening capability. The segmentation allows the lid to maintain connection while providing access, reducing the area needed for lid placement when not in use.
4Ease of operation
If the lid is partially opened while attached to the base, then controlled access is provided and space requirements are reduced, but the attachment mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static fully-attached configuration to a dynamic partially-opened configuration through the hinge. This dynamic capability provides controlled access while maintaining attachment, with the complexity justified by the operational benefits of space savings and spillage reduction.
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 provides easy and intuitive access to the contents without fully separating the lid, reducing spillage and space requirements, and is suitable for both hot and cold food applications, enhancing the on-the-go dining experience.
Implementation Method 1
The lid is configured to be securely and detachably joined to the base about the periphery of the base in a press-fit arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A container system, including a base with a rim having a pair of protrusions on opposite sides of the base extending into the base; and a lid having a peripheral outer rim. The lid includes a pair of partial peripheral troughs positioned radially inward of the outer rim, ends of the partial peripheral troughs being spaced apart to form a pair of peripheral gaps on opposite sides of the lid to receive the pair of protrusions of the base to attach the lid to the base. The lid has a hinge about which the lid folds as a first part of the lid is lifted to provide access to the interior volume of the base while a second part of the lid on an opposite side of the hinge remains attached to the base.