Food Container with Hinged Lid to Prevent Lid Loss and Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current food storage containers are often made of disposable, non-durable materials that contribute to environmental pollution and are unsafe for microwave use, with detachable lids that are easily lost, leading to incomplete containers and increased waste.
Innovation Solution
A reusable food container made from durable, non-toxic borosilicate glass with a permanently attached re-closable lid featuring 'L-shaped' locking elements and an elastomeric ring for airtight sealing, ensuring the lid remains attached and preventing separation from the storage compartment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If detachable lids are used on reusable containers, then the containers can be opened and closed for repeated use, but the lids are easily lost or separated from the storage compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lid and storage compartment into a single integrated unit through a hinge connection. The lid is permanently attached to the storage compartment via the hinge, eliminating the risk of separation while maintaining the ability to open and close the container repeatedly. This merging of previously separate components resolves the contradiction between reusability and lid attachment reliability.
2Ease of operation
If disposable plastic containers are used, then they are convenient and inexpensive, but they contribute to environmental pollution and are unsafe for microwave use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from disposable plastic to durable borosilicate glass, which is microwave-safe and environmentally friendly. The hinge mechanism enables this material transition by providing a reusable container that can withstand repeated use and microwave heating without degrading, thus eliminating the harmful environmental factors associated with disposable containers while maintaining convenience.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If soft plastic reusable containers are used, then they are flexible and reusable, but they melt or degrade when exposed to microwaves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses borosilicate glass, a composite material known for its high temperature resistance and durability. This material combines the reusability needed for repeated use with the thermal stability required to withstand microwave heating without melting or degrading, resolving the contradiction between reusability and microwave resistance.
4Adaptability or versatility
If standard-sized reusable containers are used, then they can be easily replaced, but additional lids cannot be easily found or purchased
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the lid and storage compartment into a single integrated unit through the hinge connection, the patent eliminates the need for separate lids. This integration means that when a container is replaced, the entire unit is replaced as one piece, eliminating the problem of finding or purchasing additional lids while maintaining ease of container replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a food container having a durable storage compartment that is fixed to the lid by a hinge and a plurality of connectors. The food container may be formed from borosilicate glass or another durable material that may be reused and will not deteriorate in the microwave or when exposed to extreme hot and or cold temperatures. The lid may be secured to the storage compartment so that the lid will not get misplaced when the food container is washed or otherwise not in use.