Funnel With Collection Area And Flange For Residual Fluid Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing funnels fail to effectively collect and contain residual fluids between the inlet and outlet openings, leading to unwanted dripping and transfer of residual fluid through connected tubes, requiring additional cleaning steps.
Innovation Solution
A funnel design featuring a collection area at the base with a flat surface and a flange surrounding the inlet opening, allowing the funnel to be stabilized vertically and collect residual fluids by gravity, along with securement tabs for the transfer tube to prevent dripping, and a hanging opening for secure placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional funnel is used to transfer fluids, then the fluid transfer function is achieved, but residual fluid remains in the funnel and may escape or drip
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel body is segmented into a main transfer passage and a separate collection area. The collection area is a distinct compartment with its own outlet, allowing residual fluid to be separated from the main fluid flow and collected separately, preventing escape while maintaining the primary transfer function
Solution Approach 2:
A collection area acts as an intermediary chamber between the main fluid transfer path and the external environment. This intermediate space captures residual fluid that would otherwise escape, providing a buffer zone that prevents unwanted fluid release
2Quantity of substance
If the funnel is designed with only inlet and outlet openings, then the structure remains simple, but residual fluid cannot be effectively collected
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel structure is divided into functional segments: the main body for fluid transfer, the collection area for residual fluid, and the flange with tabs for positioning. This segmentation adds collection capability while maintaining structural clarity and avoiding excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The flange structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, creates positioning contact points with the support surface, and incorporates tabs for securing the transfer tube. This multi-functionality achieves residual fluid collection without proportionally increasing complexity
3Stability of the object's composition
If the funnel is placed on a support surface, then stability is achieved, but residual fluid may still escape from the outlet opening
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of allowing residual fluid to drain outward from the outlet, the design inverts the expectation by providing a collection area that captures and retains residual fluid within the funnel body. The collection area outlet is positioned to allow controlled discharge only when the funnel is properly positioned, preventing unwanted escape
Solution Approach 2:
The collection area is pre-configured to intercept residual fluid before it can escape from the main outlet. The flange and tabs are designed to automatically position the funnel correctly on the support surface, ensuring the collection area is in the proper location to capture residual fluid without requiring additional actions
4Productivity
If a transfer tube is connected to the outlet opening, then fluid transfer efficiency is improved, but residual fluid may drip from the free end of the tube
Solution Approach 1:
The collection area serves as an intermediary that intercepts residual fluid from the transfer tube before it can drip from the free end. By providing this intermediate collection chamber, the design eliminates the harmful dripping effect while maintaining the efficiency benefits of the transfer tube connection
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
Ensures complete collection of residual fluids within the funnel and connected tubes, preventing escape and eliminating the need for additional cleaning steps, with the funnel remaining stable and secure in various orientations.
Implementation Method 1
When the funnel is placed in a vertical orientation with the base surface of the collection area contacting a horizontal surface, residual fluid in the funnel is transferred by gravity to collect within the collection area
Data Source
AI summary
A funnel having a collection area disposed at one end of the funnel. A base surface of the collection area is flat. A flange surrounding an inlet opening is positioned spaced from the collection area. When the funnel is placed in a vertical orientation with the base surface of the collection area contacting a horizontal surface, a lowermost edge of the flange surrounding the inlet opening is aligned with the base surface of the collection area. The funnel is thereby supported in a vertical orientation on the horizontal surface by two contact points. In this position, the residual fluid in the funnel is transferred by gravity to collect within the collection area. No residual fluid is allowed to escape from the interior of the funnel.