Insulating Holder with Segmented Flange for Disposable Beverage Cups
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cup holders for disposable beverage cups are unreliable in securing the lid and cup, posing a risk of spillage during insertion and do not provide thermal insulation.
Innovation Solution
A cup holder with insulating walls and a retaining mechanism that secures the disposable beverage cup and lid through snap, threaded, magnetic, or rotary connections, allowing manual insertion and secure holding with finger gaps for user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an unbroken upward-facing flange is used to support the cup, then the cup is securely held in place, but the user cannot maintain contact with the cup during insertion, increasing spillage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The upward-facing flange is segmented into multiple sections with gaps between them, allowing the flange to both secure the cup (when engaged) and allow finger access (when gaps are present) for safe insertion and removal operations
2Reliability
If the lid is made to fit tightly to prevent leakage, then spillage is reduced, but the lid may be difficult to remove when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The lid connection mechanism is made dynamic rather than static - using snap-fit engagement that provides strong sealing when closed but can be easily released by applying slight force, allowing the lid to transition between securely sealed and easily removable states
3Reliability
If disposable cups are used for over-counter beverages, then hygiene requirements are met, but thermal insulation is lost, causing temperature loss
Solution Approach 1:
An insulating holder acts as an intermediary between the disposable cup and the external environment, providing thermal insulation without requiring the cup itself to be insulated, thus maintaining both hygiene (disposable cup) and temperature control (insulating holder)
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 cup holder effectively secures disposable cups and lids, reducing spillage risk and providing thermal insulation, enabling convenient use and transport of beverages.
Implementation Method 1
A cup holder with insulating walls and a retaining mechanism that secures the disposable beverage cup and lid
Data Source
AI summary
An insulating holder is provided for a conventional disposable beverage cup. The insulating holder includes an upward-facing flange that supports the beverage cup at its peripheral bead and without interfering with a disposable lid that may be fitted to the cup by snap fit over the peripheral bead. The insulating holder further includes a retaining mechanism that holds the disposable cup and lid in the holder without interfering with the ability of the user to drink from the cup. The insulating holder further includes means to facilitate insertion of the cup into the holder without requiring the user to hold the cup either by its bead or by the lid.