Multi-Container Assembly with Integrated Cover and Perimeter Sealing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Commercial food and bar establishments face increased labor and expense when removing containers for storage, and inadequate seals can lead to food spoilage due to the existing container systems.

Innovation Solution

A container system featuring a support structure with a cover and perimeter seals to individually seal each container, utilizing a gasket layer or bands, and a latch system for secure closure, which includes raised portions for increased capacity and a support tray with openings for container placement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If containers are removed for storage after use, then storage space is provided, but labor and expense increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidlabor time

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple containers into a single integrated container assembly with a common cover and sealing system. This merging allows the entire assembly to be stored as one unit rather than requiring individual handling of multiple containers, thereby reducing labor time while maintaining storage capacity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The container assembly is designed as a multi-functional system that can hold multiple different containers (e.g., condiment containers, garnish containers) within a single standardized structure. This universality allows various container types to be stored together in one assembly, reducing the number of separate storage operations needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If containers are sealed individually, then food spoilage is prevented, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesealing effectivenessVSAvoidsealing structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sealing system is segmented into individual container-specific seals within the common cover structure. Each container has its own sealing mechanism (such as rim seals or gasket bands) that operates independently, ensuring reliable sealing for each container while maintaining an integrated overall design that doesn't excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where multiple containers are positioned within a support tray, which is then covered by a single cover assembly. The sealing elements are nested within the cover structure, allowing individual container sealing through a unified cover mechanism, thereby simplifying the overall sealing system while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS11498737B1Container assembly with multiple container cover and sealing structure

Publication Date: 2022.11.15 VW DESIGN

AI summary

A container assembly for holding containers filled with different items, such as food and cocktail garnishes is disclosed. The container assembly includes a support structure to support a plurality of removable containers. The containers are closed by a cover and sealed by perimeter seals. In illustrated embodiments, the cover includes a plurality of raised or dome shaped portions to provide interior head room for content in the containers. In embodiments described, the perimeter seals are formed of a gasket layer or bands and the support structure includes a support tray and container box.