Multi-layer Insulating Cup with Ribbed Air Gap

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing disposable cups, such as polystyrene, expanded polystyrene, and single-layer paper cups, face issues with thermal insulation, durability, and environmental sustainability, as they either fail to maintain temperature effectively, are uncomfortable to hold, or are not biodegradable and recyclable.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer disposable cup design featuring an inner and outer body with circumferential ribs and an insulating space between them, providing improved thermal insulation and structural strength while being cost-effective to manufacture.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If a single-layer paper cup is used, then the cup is environmentally friendly and inexpensive, but the thermal insulation is poor and the cup is fragile

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal insulationVSAvoidcup structure

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cup is divided into multiple functional layers: an inner liquid-receiving layer, an intermediate insulating layer, and an outer structural layer. Each layer serves a specific function, with the insulating layer containing air pockets or vacuum spaces to reduce heat transfer while the outer layer provides structural strength and surface for printing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cup combines different materials with complementary properties: paper or biodegradable plastic for the inner layer to contact liquid, air pockets or insulating materials for thermal insulation, and a stronger outer layer for structural integrity and printing surface, creating a composite structure that achieves multiple functions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Temperature

If expanded polystyrene is used, then the thermal insulation is improved, but the cup is not biodegradable and recyclable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal insulationVSAvoidenvironmental impact

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The insulating function is localized to specific regions or layers of the cup structure rather than requiring the entire cup to be made of insulating material. Air pockets, vacuum spaces, or thin insulating layers are strategically positioned to provide thermal insulation while minimizing material usage and environmental impact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The cup is designed as a disposable product using biodegradable or recyclable materials that can be easily disposed of after single use, eliminating the need for long-term durability and complex recycling processes while maintaining adequate insulation performance for the intended usage period.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Temperature

If a cold drink is placed in a polystyrene cup, then the cup provides good insulation, but condensation forms on the outside making it slippery and uncomfortable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal insulationVSAvoidhandling comfort

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

An outer layer or coating is introduced as an intermediary between the insulating structure and the user's hand. This outer layer can be textured, corrugated, or made of a material with different thermal properties to reduce condensation formation and improve grip comfort while maintaining the insulating performance of the inner structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Temperature

If multi-layer paper cups are used, then the thermal insulation and strength are improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethermal insulationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional layers are combined into a single integrated structure formed in one manufacturing process. The cup is molded or formed with built-in insulating features such as ribbed structures, vacuum spaces, or layered walls that provide insulation and strength simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and reducing manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The multi-layer cup effectively maintains the temperature of beverages and food items, enhances handling comfort, and is more environmentally friendly by offering better insulation and strength without increasing production complexity or costs.

Implementation Method 1

the outer body has an outer sidewall surrounding at least a substantial portion of the inner sidewall and engaging the first circumferential rib and the second circumferential rib to define an insulating space therebetween

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS9266660B2Insulating cup

Publication Date: 2016.02.23 PACTIV CORP

AI summary

Insulating cup includes an inner body and an outer body. The inner body has an inner sidewall defining a top opening and an inner bottom portion, and the inner sidewall includes a first circumferential rib and a second circumferential rib. The outer body has an outer sidewall surrounding at least a substantial portion of the inner sidewall and engaging the first circumferential rib and the second circumferential rib to define an insulating space therebetween, and the outer body has an outer bottom portion disposed below the inner bottom portion to define a surface-engaging edge.