Ergonomic Container Handle with Integrated Spout Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for transporting and handling fuels, such as hydrocarbon-based fuels, are cumbersome and inconvenient due to their weight and lack ergonomic handling solutions, with separate spouts often being misplaced or difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring multiple handles for ergonomic handling, including a through passage for the spout storage that securely retains the spout, allowing for easy emptying and storage, and a stable base with feet for stability, enabling efficient pouring and carrying of dense liquids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate removable spout is provided to aid in emptying the container, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases and the spout can be mislaid
Solution Approach 1:
The spout is integrated into the handle structure, merging two previously separate components (spout and handle) into a single unified assembly. The spout is received within a recess in the handle piece and retained by a retention feature, eliminating the need for a completely separate spout component while maintaining the removable functionality for easy attachment and detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle piece serves multiple functions: it provides a gripping handle for carrying the container and simultaneously houses the spout for dispensing liquid. The recess in the handle piece acts as both a structural element and a mounting location for the spout, combining carrying and dispensing functions into a single component.
2Ease of operation
If the spout is made removable to aid in emptying, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability decreases due to risk of misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
The spout and handle are merged into a single integrated assembly where the spout is received within the handle's recess and secured by a retention feature. This integration ensures the spout remains attached during normal use while still allowing intentional removal when needed, balancing reliability with operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention feature is pre-configured in the handle piece to automatically engage with the spout upon insertion. This preliminary retention mechanism ensures the spout is securely held in place before use, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining easy intentional removal capability.
3Ease of operation
If multiple handles are provided for ergonomic handling, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle piece serves dual functions: it provides a gripping surface for carrying the container and simultaneously houses the spout for liquid dispensing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, achieving ergonomic handling without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrying handle and spout mounting structure are merged into a single integrated handle piece. The recess in the handle piece accommodates the spout, combining the carrying function and spout retention function into one component rather than requiring separate elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A container for liquid (1; 51), comprising a body in which liquid can be stored, in which the body has a orifice (8; 58) allowing access into the void, the body being provided with a handle (10; 60) arranged to be grasped by a user, the container being provided with an elongate spout (9; 59) that removably engages the orifice (8; 58), the handle being provided with a location (71) for storage of the spout. Additionally, a container (1; 51) for liquid, comprising a body in which liquid can be stored, the body having a base (2; 52; 72), two opposing side faces (3; 53), the side faces (3;53) being joined by first and second opposing side walls (4, 5; 54, 55), the side faces and the side walls being capped by a top wall (6; 56) opposing the base, in which the top wall (6; 56) has a orifice (8;57) adjacent to the first side wall (4; 54), in which both the first and second side walls are provided with handles (10, 11; 60, 61).