Mixing vessel for consumable substances, method of using said mixing vessel and method of manufacturing said mixing vessel
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing vessels fail to effectively mix hot beverages, leading to a 'grainy' texture and rapid settling due to low shear forces, and pose safety risks with leakage when used for hot liquids.
Innovation Solution
A mixing vessel with a sealing member that transitions between two stable configurations, increasing volume to control pressure and prevent rapid depressurization, allowing for vigorous mixing and safe handling of hot beverages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional stirring methods are used to mix hot beverages, then the mixing process is simple and safe, but the shear force is insufficient resulting in grainy texture and rapid settling
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a pressable button that transitions between extended and retracted states, enabling dynamic volume adjustment. When the button is pressed, the lid moves from an extended state (larger volume) to a retracted state (smaller volume), creating dynamic compression and expansion of the beverage to generate high shear forces for effective mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing mechanism utilizes pneumatic pressure generated by compressing the beverage within the sealed container. Pressing the button reduces the internal volume, increasing pressure and forcing the beverage against the mixing element, thereby generating the necessary shear force without requiring manual stirring.
2Reliability
If mixing is performed in a sealed container, then leakage is prevented, but pressure buildup may cause safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The lid incorporates a spring element that acts as a cushioning mechanism. When pressure builds up inside the sealed container during mixing, the spring compresses to absorb the excess pressure, preventing dangerous pressure buildup while maintaining the sealed environment for effective mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element undergoes elastic deformation (a mechanical phase transition) when compressed by internal pressure. This allows the system to transition from a high-pressure state to a balanced state, dissipating pressure safely while maintaining the seal integrity.
3Volume of stationary object
If the container volume is increased to accommodate mixing, then more space is available for ingredients, but the container size becomes larger and less portable
Solution Approach 1:
The lid's volume is dynamically adjustable through the pressable button mechanism. The lid transitions between an extended configuration (providing larger internal volume for mixing) and a retracted configuration (reducing overall container size for portability). This dynamic adjustment allows the same container to serve both mixing and travel functions effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing mechanism is nested within the lid structure itself. The button, spring, and volume-adjustment components are integrated into the lid, allowing the mixing functionality to be contained within the existing container footprint without requiring additional external components or significantly increasing overall size.
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 the creation of a full emulsion in hot beverages by applying high shear forces and prevents liquid spraying when opening, ensuring safe and efficient mixing of hot drinks on-the-go.
Implementation Method 1
mixing the first and second consumable substances within the mixing vessel, wherein said mixing generates a pressure within the mixing vessel
Implementation Method 2
the sealing member is arranged to transition between the at least two stable spatial configurations on application of a pressure generated within the mixing vessel during mixing
Implementation Method 3
the sealing member is arranged to transition between the at least two stable spatial configurations on application of a pressure generated within the mixing vessel during mixing to increase the volume of the mixing vessel
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
Examples described herein relate to a mixing vessel (200) for consumable substances, a method of using a mixing vessel (200) and a method of manufacturing a mixing vessel (200). The mixing vessel (200) may be used to produce a consumable liquid, such as a hot beverage. In one example, a mixing vessel (200) for consumable liquids has an internal chamber for receiving consumable substances for mixing and a sealing member for the internal chamber. The sealing member has at least two stable spatial configurations to change a volume of the internal chamber. The sealing member is arranged to transition between the at least two stable spatial configurations on application of a pressure generated within the internal chamber during mixing to increase the volume of the internal chamber.