Lid-Mounted Stirring Mug for Spill-Resistant Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drinking containers with integrated stirring mechanisms face challenges such as complexity, difficulty in accessing the stirring mechanism while using the container in a vehicle cup holder, or issues with spillage when the top of the vessel remains open.
Innovation Solution
A mug design with a rotatably attached stirring mechanism integrated into the lid, allowing manual actuation from above, which includes a thermally insulated dual-layer construction, a secure lid with a gasket seal, and a sipping mechanism that prevents spillage, enabling easy stirring without requiring separate utensils and suitable for use in vehicle cup holders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stirring mechanism is motorized and located at the base of the cup, then stirring function is provided, but the device becomes too complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the motorized mechanical system with a simple manual stirring mechanism. The stirrer is manually rotatable and connected to the lid, eliminating the need for motors, batteries, and complex control systems while maintaining the stirring function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the stirring function from the base of the cup and relocates it to the lid. This separation allows the stirring mechanism to be independently operated from the top, simplifying the overall device structure and eliminating the need for base-mounted motors.
2Ease of operation
If the top of the vessel remains open to allow pivoting movement of the paddle, then stirring function is provided, but spillage occurs making it unsuitable for use in automobiles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible or sealed lid structure that can accommodate the stirring motion while maintaining a closed system. The lid may have a flexible membrane or sealed opening that allows rotational movement for stirring while preventing liquid from spilling out, making the device suitable for use in moving vehicles.
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 solution provides a user-friendly, spill-proof, and thermally efficient mug that allows for easy stirring and sipping, addressing the challenges of complexity and spillage while being compatible with vehicle cup holders.
Implementation Method 1
The lid has a gasket seal that prevents leakage of liquid between the lid and the mug body
Implementation Method 2
The mug body has a thermal insulation layer that reduces heat transfer between the beverage and the external environment
Data Source
AI summary
A mug body has an open top. A lid is fitted to the open top. The lid has first and second top to bottom holes formed therein. An arm extends down from the bottom of the lid into the mug body. An actuator handle extends out from the top of the lid, through the second hole. The actuator handle is coupled to the arm to move the arm relative to the mug body. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.