Packaging Strainer for Liquid Food Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food packaging for liquid products, such as pickles and olives, poses difficulties in draining the packing fluid while retaining the primary contents, as users often struggle to efficiently separate the liquid from the solid contents.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a filter element, or strainer, into the packaging that allows for the drainage of the packing fluid while keeping the primary contents within the container, which is sealed during processing and can be opened to facilitate the draining process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional sealed container is used for liquid-packaged food, then the contents are protected during storage and transport, but the user cannot efficiently drain the packing fluid while retaining the solid contents
Solution Approach 1:
The container end is segmented into a strainer portion with openings and a sealed portion. The strainer portion allows liquid to pass through while retaining solid contents, enabling efficient draining without requiring complex external filtering equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
A removable seal element acts as an intermediary between the sealed container and the strainer function. This seal can be removed to activate the strainer openings, providing a simple mechanism to transition from storage mode to draining mode without complex mechanical systems.
2Loss of substance
If the container is opened for draining, then the packing fluid can be removed, but the primary contents may be lost or contaminated
Solution Approach 1:
The container end has different local qualities: the strainer portion has openings for liquid passage while the sealed portion maintains integrity. This localized filtering capability allows selective removal of liquid while retaining solids without compromising overall container integrity or requiring full opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The strainer portion incorporates a porous or perforated structure that physically filters the packing fluid. The porous design allows liquid molecules to pass through while blocking larger solid food particles, enabling separation based on size differential.
3Productivity
If a strainer is integrated into the container, then draining becomes efficient, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The strainer function is merged with the container end structure itself rather than being a separate component. The strainer openings are formed directly in the container end material, eliminating the need for additional strainer components and simplifying assembly while maintaining efficient draining capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The container end serves multiple functions: it provides structural closure, incorporates filtering capability through the strainer portion, and includes a removable seal for controlled activation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system while achieving efficient draining.
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 efficient drainage of the packing fluid while maintaining the integrity of the primary contents, simplifying the process for users and improving convenience in food preparation and serving.
Implementation Method 1
strainer section 17...which may include a suitable number of openings such as opening 24
Data Source
AI summary
A single use packing and dispensing technique includes a filter element as part of the packaging to permit a user to drain the packing fluid while retaining the primary package contents such as pickles, olives, canned vegetables, fruit, canned meats, poultry and fish. A strainer may be incorporated into any suitable aspect of the packaging along with a removable sealing element.