Multi-Compartment Pouring Lid for Separate or Combined Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-compartmented containers for flowable materials either dispense materials one at a time or all at once, failing to allow for simultaneous individual or combined pouring of multiple materials effectively, and often lead to material mixing or require separate containers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-compartmented storage container with a lid featuring electively closable openings for each compartment and a mechanism to prevent caps from closing under gravity when tilted, allowing for individual or simultaneous pouring of materials from separate compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single compartmented container is used for storing and dispensing flowable materials, then the container structure is simple, but accurately aiming the pour is difficult and contents cannot be kept unattended for long periods
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple compartments (first compartment, second compartment, third compartment) that are separated by a partition. Each compartment can be independently sealed with its own cap, allowing selective access to different materials while maintaining overall container integrity. This segmentation enables precise pouring from specific compartments while keeping the structure relatively simple.
2Reliability
If a lid is added to prevent spoiling, then contents can be kept unattended longer, but the lid may close under gravity when the container is tilted for dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
A biasing mechanism (spring or elastic element) is incorporated to apply a preliminary opening force to the lid, counteracting the closing force of gravity when the container is tilted. This preliminary anti-action ensures the lid remains open during dispensing operations while still providing sealing capability when the container is upright, maintaining both content preservation and dispensing ease.
3Reliability
If multiple basic containers are used to store different materials separately, then materials remain separated, but the container cannot keep materials proximate to one another
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple containers are merged into a single multi-compartmented container structure. The first, second, and third compartments are housed within one container body, each capable of holding different flowable materials separately. The partitioned design maintains material separation while keeping all compartments proximate to one another, eliminating the need for multiple separate containers.
4Adaptability or versatility
If known multi-compartmented containers are used, then materials can be contained in close proximity, but the container cannot dispense materials individually or simultaneously as needed
Solution Approach 1:
The lid system is designed to be dynamically configurable, capable of selective opening to different compartments. The lid can be opened to access the first compartment, second compartment, or both simultaneously, providing adaptive dispensing flexibility. This dynamic access control allows the same container configuration to serve multiple dispensing needs without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a multi-compartmented storage container for storing two or more flowable materials in separate compartments so that the materials may be poured from the container individually or combined.