Scoop Connector for Container Material Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
A significant percentage of material within containers is discarded due to difficulty in removal, with existing methods like cutting or heating being ineffective for all types of containers and potentially damaging the contents.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a scoop and connector designed to couple with a tube within the container, allowing for the efficient removal of semi-fluid materials like lotions and gels by extending to the bottom corners of the container without damaging the contents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If existing removal processes (cutting, heating, adding water) are used to remove material from containers, then material can be removed from the container, but the contents may be damaged or diluted, rendering them potentially unusable
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the removal tool into distinct segments: a connector portion that interfaces with the tube and a scoop portion that contacts the material. This segmentation allows the tube to remain outside the container while the scoop reaches into bottom corners to retrieve material without requiring container modification or addition of substances that could damage contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The scoop acts as an intermediary tool between the tube and the material at the container bottom. It transfers material from difficult-to-reach locations to the tube for removal, enabling complete material extraction without directly inserting the tube into the container or using harmful removal methods.
2Loss of substance
If the scoop is extended to reach bottom corners of the container, then complete material removal is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the connector and scoop into a single integrated structure with a shoulder portion joining them. This unified design achieves complete material removal capability while maintaining structural simplicity, avoiding the need for separate components or complex assembly mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The scoop portion is designed with universal functionality to reach bottom corners of various container types. The curved cross-section and extended length provide adaptability across different container geometries, reducing material waste without requiring multiple specialized tools or complex adjustable mechanisms.
3Productivity
If a curved scoop design is used to reach bottom corners, then material removal effectiveness improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The scoop features localized curvature concentrated at the distal end where it contacts the container bottom corners. The cross-section is curved in the vertical plane to reach corners but remains relatively simple in horizontal dimensions. This localized quality approach maximizes material removal effectiveness while minimizing overall manufacturing complexity and precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device is provided for removing material from a container. The device includes a scoop and a connector. The scoop extends distally from a shoulder portion. The connector extends proximally from the shoulder portion and couples the device to a tube within the container.