Magnetic Jar Dispensing Closure With Rotating Flow-Control Disk
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic storage and dispensing systems for containers are limited by their inability to dispense contents without removing the cap, are difficult to clean, and are not compatible with vertical storage orientations, and they do not utilize the wide array of available canning jars.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing closure system that includes a closure base, a rotating dispensing disk with adjustable hole configurations, a magnet, and a fastener, allowing for magnetic storage and display on any surface orientation, using existing canning jars with metal screw bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a magnetic storage system with a cap is used, then the jar can be stored magnetically on a surface, but the contents cannot be dispensed without completely removing the cap
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is segmented into a base portion that attaches to the jar and a separate magnetic portion that can be detached. This allows the magnetic storage function to be separated from the sealing function, enabling the cap to remain on the jar while contents are dispensed through openings in the base portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure incorporates a rotatable disk with multiple opening configurations that can be dynamically adjusted between different positions. This allows the user to select between complete closure, partial dispensing through small holes, or complete dispensing through a large opening, all while the jar remains magnetically attached to the storage surface.
2Reliability
If an elastic cover is used to seal the container, then the container can be sealed in a closed position, but the elastic cover deforms and weakens the seal over time
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cover is completely removed from the design. Instead, a rigid or semi-rigid disk with precisely engineered openings is used. The sealing function is achieved through the fit between the disk and the base portion, combined with an optional gasket, eliminating the deformation and weakening problems associated with elastic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing mechanism transitions from relying on elastic deformation to relying on precise geometric fit and friction. The disk is designed with specific dimensional parameters that create an interference fit with the base portion, providing a reliable seal without the need for elastic material that degrades over time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a rotating elastic cover with holes is used for dispensing, then variable flow rates can be achieved, but material accumulates under the deformed cover making it difficult to rotate and clean
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic cover is completely removed from the design. Instead, a rigid or semi-rigid disk with precisely engineered openings is used. The sealing function is achieved through the fit between the disk and the base portion, combining variable flow control with ease of cleaning.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the cover deform to control flow, the openings are precisely engineered in a rigid structure. The flow control is achieved through the geometry of fixed openings rather than dynamic deformation, inverting the traditional approach and eliminating material accumulation issues.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetic storage system is designed for horizontal mounting only, then the structure can be simplified, but the system cannot be used with vertical or other orientation surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment system is designed to function in any orientation. The magnetic force acts perpendicular to the storage surface regardless of orientation, and the gravity-assisted dispensing mechanism automatically adapts to the orientation by having the jar opening face downward in the desired dispensing direction. This allows the same system to be mounted horizontally, vertically, or at any angle.
5Reliability
If a self-sealing mechanism is used, then the container can seal automatically, but the mechanism is not compatible with vertical surface storage as contents spill before sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The closure incorporates a rotatable disk with multiple opening configurations that can be dynamically adjusted between different positions. This allows the user to select between complete closure, partial dispensing through small holes, or complete dispensing through a large opening, all while the jar remains magnetically attached to the storage surface.
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 easy dispensing and storage of items from jars in any orientation, customizable flow rates, and integration with a wide range of jars, while providing a decorative and space-saving solution.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet (150) attached to the top of the closure base (100, 701) opposite the jar opening (594)
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing closure comprising a closure base, a dispensing disk, a magnet, and a fastener. The magnet and closure base sandwich the dispensing disk, which are all held together with the fastener. A user fills ajar with items to be dispensed and stored and then mounts the dispensing closure onto the jar with a jar screw band. To dispense the items, the user rotates the dispensing disk to an open position and then inverts the jar. To store and display, the user rotates the dispensing disk to a closed position and then attaches the jar with the magnet to a surface attracted to a magnet. The design allows for manual seal and storage in any orientation (horizontally, vertically, or some other odd angle) and for the dispensing disks to be easily switched. The dispensing closure may further comprise a spacer, which enables easier rotation of the dispensing disk.