Integrated Connector for Travel Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Travel-sized containers of complementary substances like hand sanitizers and hand lotions or shampoos and hair conditioners are often misplaced or forgotten due to inconvenient packaging and carrying, especially during travel.
Innovation Solution
A container and integrated connector system where a first container with a laterally projecting connector member and a ring structure can securely and removably connect with a second container, allowing pairs of substances with complementary functions to be easily paired and carried together, reducing the overall footprint for easier packing and carrying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If containers of complementary substances are packaged separately, then each container can be optimized for its specific function, but the containers are easily misplaced or forgotten during travel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate container structures into a single integrated packaging unit. The first and second containers are both received within a common packaging structure that includes a first compartment for the first container and a second compartment for the second container, allowing them to be carried together as one unit rather than separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging structure serves multiple functions: it provides individual compartments for each container, includes integrated connectors for securing containers together, and creates a unified carrying structure. The connectors can be configured in different ways to accommodate different container arrangements, providing versatility in how the complementary substances are kept together.
2Reliability
If containers are connected securely, then they are less likely to be misplaced, but the connection mechanism adds structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that interfaces with one container, an extending portion that reaches toward the second container, and a connector element that forms the actual securing mechanism. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while keeping the overall structure manageable and understandable.
Solution Approach 2:
The extending portion acts as an intermediary element between the first container and the second container. It bridges the gap between the two containers, allowing the connector body attached to the first container to securely engage with the second container without requiring direct contact between the main container bodies.
3Volume of moving object
If travel-sized containers are used, then space for carrying is reduced, but they are more easily lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple small travel-sized containers into a single integrated packaging structure. By receiving both the first container and second container within unified packaging that includes connecting mechanisms, the system ensures that small, easily lost travel containers remain together as a set, compensating for their small size through integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A container and integrated connector system includes a first container and an integrated connector. The first container includes a first body having a hollow first interior and a laterally projecting first shoulder disposed on an upper portion of the first body. The first container also includes a first neck, which is disposed on the first shoulder of the first body. The integrated connector is integrally connected to the first body. The integrated connector includes a connector member and a ring structure. The connector member projects laterally from the first body. The ring structure is disposed on a distal end portion of the connector member. The ring structure includes a connector opening, which is configured to fit over a second neck of a second container. The ring structure is operable to be removably secured to the second container when the connector opening is fit over the second neck.