Low-Profile Fluid Transfer Structure for Spill-Reducing Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid transfer devices are not designed to efficiently and safely transfer fluids from one container to another, particularly in a low-profile form factor that is compact and adaptable to various container types, while preventing spills and contamination.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile fluid transfer device with an annular base and vertical peripheral wall featuring spaced straight ridges forming flow channels, catchment areas, and a drain hole, along with optional splash guards and a removable stopper, which allows for gravity-driven fluid transfer and secure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If existing fluid transfer devices are used, then fluid transfer can be achieved, but the devices are not compact and have high profile height
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the rim at a higher elevation than the base, creating a height differential that enables gravity-driven fluid transfer. This vertical arrangement allows the device to achieve its transfer function without requiring excessive horizontal footprint, thus improving compactness while maintaining operational effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: the base for receiving fluid, the vertical wall for containment, and the rim for overflow control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently within a compact overall structure, reducing the need for additional separate components.
2Reliability
If existing fluid transfer devices are used, then fluid transfer can be achieved, but spill prevention and contamination control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The rim is positioned at a higher elevation than the base, creating a preliminary anti-action against spillage by allowing excess fluid to overflow safely at the rim before it can cause contamination. This elevation differential proactively prevents spills rather than reacting to them, improving reliability without requiring complex spill containment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical wall acts as an intermediary structure between the base and the rim, providing containment and guiding fluid flow. This intermediate element enables controlled fluid transfer while preventing direct exposure to potential spills, thus enhancing contamination control with a simple structural addition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing fluid transfer devices are used, then fluid transfer can be achieved, but adaptability to various container types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with a universal base structure that can accommodate various container types and sizes. The open base and vertical wall configuration allow the device to function with different container geometries, enhancing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation through consistent usage procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows dynamic adjustment of fluid transfer parameters by varying the rim elevation and wall height. This dynamic design enables the same device structure to adapt to different operational requirements and container types without sacrificing operational convenience, as the fundamental gravity-driven mechanism remains unchanged.
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
Enables efficient, spill-reducing, and adaptable fluid transfer from various containers, maintaining a low profile and ensuring containment and hygiene by using the device's design to guide fluid flow and seal the transfer process.
Implementation Method 1
Each flow channel slopes downward from a first end proximate an inside of the annular peripheral wall towards an open second end away from the annular peripheral wall
Implementation Method 2
A drain hole is formed within the catchment area and extends through the base from the top to the bottom
Data Source
AI summary
A low-profile fluid transfer device has an annular base with a top and a bottom, and an annular peripheral wall defining an enclosed interior of the base. A plurality of spaced apart straight ridges are formed within the enclosed interior of the base and define respective flow channels. Each flow channel slopes downward from a first end proximate an inside of the annular peripheral wall towards an open second end away from the annular peripheral wall. A catchment area is located adjacent the open second end of each of the flow channels. A drain hole is formed within the catchment area and extends through the base from the top to the bottom.