Sample Cup with Tapered Channels for Stable Fluid Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for fluid collection and measurement, particularly for small volumes like milliliters, require multiple steps and equipment, leading to fluid loss and instability, as they often lack a large receiving opening, stability, and nesting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic cup design with a large open upper chamber that drains into tapered sample-directing channels and a smaller measurement chamber, featuring three points of support for stability and nesting, preventing spills when tipped, and allowing fluid to flow seamlessly into the measurement chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a large receiving chamber is used to conveniently receive fluid, then the receiving capability is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates when measuring small volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The cup is segmented into three distinct functional zones: a large receiving chamber for fluid collection, tapered sample-directing channels for controlled flow, and a small measurement chamber for precise measurement. This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the fluid transfer process through tapered channels that guide fluid downward from the receiving chamber to the measurement chamber. This dimensional approach enables seamless transfer without requiring horizontal movement or additional equipment.
2Measurement precision
If a funnel or transfer process is used to move fluid from receiving to measurement container, then the measurement capability is improved, but the device complexity and fluid loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the receiving container, transfer mechanism, and measurement container into a single integrated cup structure. The tapered channels serve as built-in transfer pathways, eliminating the need for separate funnels or transfer equipment while ensuring complete fluid transfer through gravitational flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The cup performs multiple functions within a single device: it serves as a receiving container for fluid collection, a transfer mechanism through tapered channels, and a measurement container with graduated markings. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate pieces of equipment.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the cup is made monolithic for stability, then the structural integrity is improved, but the nesting capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cup is designed with a tapered overall shape that enables nested storage, with multiple cups able to stack vertically within each other. The tapered profile of the receiving chamber and measurement chamber creates clearance that accommodates nested cups while maintaining structural integrity.
4Ease of operation
If the cup has a large open upper chamber for receiving fluid, then the receiving convenience is improved, but the spill risk increases when tipped
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered channels are designed to maintain fluid flow toward the measurement chamber even when the cup is tipped or placed on its side. The geometry of the channels creates a self-correcting flow path that prevents fluid from spilling out, counteracting the effect of tipping before spillage can occur.
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 cup effectively collects and measures small fluid volumes without spills or extra equipment, is stable on its own, and nests conveniently for storage and shipping, making it suitable for handling high-value fluids and biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
The upper chamber and the channels are tapered such that any fluid in the cup will drain into the measurement chamber, until the measurement chamber is full or overflows back into the channels, without tipping or other movement of the cup.
Data Source
AI summary
A cup used to receive, hold, measure and pour liquids, such a specimens, such as for a medical assay, is described. The cup comprises an open receiving upper chamber, two or more open sample-directing channels, and an open, calibrated and marked measuring column. When sitting on a level surface, fluid flows freely from the upper chamber through the sample-directing channels into the measuring column. A foot is under each fluid-directing channel. The base of the measuring column functions as an additional, such as a third, foot. Cups nest, with the two feet of the upper cup sitting into two sample-directing columns of lower cup. The measuring column and upper chamber taper to permit nesting. If the cup is tipped, it rests on two of three of: the two feet and the base of the measuring column, and a point on a lower perimeter of the upper chamber, such that fluid will not spill.