Receptacle system with divider insert
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face inconvenience in disposing of pits or seeds from fruits like cherries and shells from nuts, leading to avoidance of these foods.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle system with a dividing element that separates consumable items from disposable items within a cup, using a wedge-shaped bracing element and heat-sealed film to maintain separation and prevent mess during consumption and disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-chamber cup is used for consuming fruits or nuts, then the cup structure remains simple, but the disposable items (pits, shells) mix with consumable items causing mess and inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The cup is divided into two separate chambers by a dividing element that extends from the bottom wall to the open end. This segmentation allows one chamber to hold consumable items while the other collects disposable items like pits and shells, preventing mixing and eliminating the need for additional disposal containers.
2Ease of operation
If a dividing element is added to separate consumable and disposable items, then disposal convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dividing element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it creates the partition between chambers, provides structural support through the bracing element, and enables the heat-sealing process for waste containment. This merging reduces the need for separate components while achieving the desired separation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat-sealable film acts as an intermediary that can be selectively applied to seal the second chamber. This intermediary element allows the system to transition from an open two-chamber design to a sealed configuration for easy disposal, adding functionality without permanently increasing structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the cup is tilted for consumption, then single-handed operation is enabled, but disposable items may spill out
Solution Approach 1:
The heat-sealable film is positioned and sealed in advance to close the second chamber before consumption begins. This preliminary sealing action ensures that when the cup is tilted for single-handed consumption, the disposable items remain confined within the sealed chamber and cannot spill out.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat-sealable film provides a flexible yet sealable barrier that conforms to the chamber shape. When heat-applied, it creates an airtight seal that prevents disposable items from escaping during tilting or transport, while remaining simple enough to apply with basic equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A receptacle system includes a cup configured to hold consumable items and has a bottom surface and an interior. A dividing element is disposed within the cup interior and defines first and second chambers. A receptacle system includes a cup configured to hold consumable items and has a bottom surface and an interior. A dividing element is disposed within the cup interior and is configured to maintain disposable items separate from the consumable items.