Reconfigurable Bottle With Modular Connectors for Item Segregation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refillable bottles lack the ability to segregate stored items from liquids and do not allow for independent use of components, leading to increased weight and bulk when carrying multiple containers for different activities.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable container system with interlocking connectors and seals that allow for modular combinations of bottles, canisters, and closures, enabling separation of items and independent use of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate containers are carried for different activities, then item segregation and hygiene are improved, but weight and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bottle is divided into multiple separable compartments including a liquid-holding bottle portion and detachable canister portions. Each compartment can be used independently or combined, allowing users to carry only the segments needed for specific activities, thereby reducing total weight while maintaining item segregation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bottle components are designed with universal interlocking features that allow different canisters to attach to the same bottle, and the bottle itself can function independently or as part of a combined system. This multi-functionality enables a single set of components to serve multiple purposes across different activities without requiring separate dedicated containers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate containers are carried for different activities, then item segregation and hygiene are improved, but bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The canister portions are designed to nest within each other or within the bottle when not in use. This nesting capability significantly reduces the total volume occupied by multiple containers, allowing users to carry segregated items without the bulk penalty of separate containers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If components are designed for independent use, then system flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple connection functions are merged into single interlocking features. The same connector mechanism that enables detachable canisters also provides sealing, alignment, and structural support functions. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining configuration flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system uses universal interlocking features that perform multiple functions: mechanical attachment, sealing, and structural support. This multi-functionality allows components to be used independently or in combination without requiring different connection mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity despite high flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A reconfigurable container system, including a bottle. The bottle includes an inner wall having an upper end defining a bottle opening, an outer wall having an upper end with a rim adjacent to a screw connector, and connector insert having a bayonet connector and a seal ring. The system includes a closure having an outer wall with a screw connector configured to releasably connect to the screw connector of the bottle to join the closure and the bottle. The closure includes a seal positioned to engage the bottle when the screw connectors of the bottle and closure connect to retain liquid in the bottle. The system includes a bottom canister having a bayonet connector configured to releasably connect to the bottle bayonet connector to selectively join the bottom canister and the bottle so the bottom canister sealingly engages the seal ring to retain contents in the bottom canister.