Low Profile Funnel Nested in Lid for Spillage Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a container system that reduces spillage when transferring powders or liquids through small openings, especially for on-the-go use where access to a spoon may not be available, and existing funnels may not provide a secure or spill-proof solution.
Innovation Solution
A container system comprising a receptacle, lid, and a low-profile funnel that fits within the lid's interior headspace, with a frangible seal and attaching mechanisms such as protruding seats or clasps to securely hold the funnel in place, allowing for easy transfer of substances without breaking the seal and minimizing spillage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional funnel is used for transferring substances, then spillage is reduced, but the funnel cannot be stored within the container lid and is not portable for on-the-go use
Solution Approach 1:
The funnel is designed with a collapsed configuration that allows it to be nested within the container lid's interior headspace. The flexible sidewalls enable the funnel to be compressed into a compact form that fits inside the lid, making the entire container portable for on-the-go use while maintaining the funnel's functionality when deployed
2Ease of operation
If the funnel is made flexible for portability, then it can be stored in the lid, but the seal may be compromised during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The frangible seal is pre-applied to the container opening before the funnel is deployed. The seal remains intact during storage and transport with the funnel in its collapsed state. When ready for use, the seal is broken in a controlled manner to allow funnel deployment, ensuring the seal's protective function is maintained until the moment of transfer
Solution Approach 2:
The funnel utilizes flexible sidewalls made of deformable material that can be temporarily deformed for storage within the lid's interior headspace. This flexibility allows the funnel to be compressed and stored without damage, while maintaining structural integrity during the pouring operation to ensure reliable substance transfer
3Reliability
If the funnel is securely attached to prevent movement, then spillage is minimized, but removal and reuse becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism utilizes the funnel's flexible sidewalls to create a dynamic attachment system. During deployment, the sidewalls are deformed to engage with the container opening, providing secure attachment that prevents movement and spillage. For removal, the sidewalls are temporarily deformed again to release the engagement, allowing easy removal and reuse without compromising attachment security during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A container comprising a receptacle, a lid, and a funnel is disclosed. The receptacle defines an interior storage chamber and has an upper rim defining a top opening. The lid is removably attachable to the receptacle for enclosing the top opening. The lid comprises an interior surface. The lid defines an interior headspace between the upper rim of the receptacle and the interior surface of the lid. The funnel comprises a unitary body shaped to fit within the interior headspace.