Rotatable Barrel Dispenser for Small Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for dispensing small objects are time-consuming and expensive to manufacture, typically constructed from glass and metal using labor-intensive processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing a frame with upper and lower chambers, a rotatable barrel formed by folding a sheet of material with tabs and circular disks, and a handle for manual rotation to orient the barrel for dispensing objects from the upper to the lower chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If glass and metal materials are used to construct the dispenser, then the device achieves durability and proper function, but the manufacturing process becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive glass and metal components with disposable or replaceable paper-based inserts that can be easily manufactured and discarded after use. The permanent housing retains simple structural elements while the consumable portions use inexpensive materials, dramatically reducing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines traditional durable materials (plastic or metal housing) with unconventional materials (paper, cardstock, or thin plastic sheets) to create a hybrid structure. The housing provides structural integrity and durability, while the paper-based components enable easy manufacturing and cost reduction.
2Strength
If complex molding processes are used to form glass and metal parts, then the device achieves proper structural integrity, but the manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is divided into permanent structural components (housing, mechanism) and temporary functional components (paper inserts, dividers). This segmentation allows each part to be manufactured independently using simple processes, eliminating complex molding operations and reducing overall manufacturing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thin, flexible materials like paper and cardstock to replace rigid glass and metal parts. These thin films can be easily formed, folded, and assembled without requiring high-temperature molding or complex machining, dramatically reducing manufacturing time and energy consumption.
3Ease of operation
If traditional glass and metal construction is used, then the dispenser achieves proper functionality for object storage and dispensing, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates simplified paper-based copies or analogs of traditional glass and metal dispenser components. The paper inserts replicate the functional geometry of glass vials and metal dividers but can be manufactured through simple cutting, folding, and assembling processes, eliminating complex molding while preserving dispensing functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for dispensing small objects is disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame forming an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The frame supports a rotatable barrel that is disposed between the chambers. The barrel is constructed from a folded rectangular sheet that forms a chamber with an opening. The rotatable barrel is oriented with the opening facing upward to receive objects from the upper chamber into the barrel's chamber, such that when the handle is rotated about a horizontal axis the barrel turns to orient the opening downward and deposit objects in the barrel's chamber into the lower chamber.