Container lid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ice dispensing systems require manual transfer of ice between storage and dispensing containers, leading to inefficiencies and potential waste due to spillage and melting, and existing sliding lids obstruct the ice transfer path when in the open position.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing system with a motorized or gravity-fed duct connecting a source container to a dispensing container, allowing continuous ice transfer through a container lid that remains open or closed without obstructing the ice path, using a sliding or rotating door mechanism to access the dispensing container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional sliding lid is used for the dispensing container, then the container can be sealed when closed, but the lid obstructs the ice transfer path when in the open position
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into multiple independent segments: a first lid portion that seals the container opening and a second lid portion that can be moved to expose the opening. This segmentation allows the sealing function to be separated from the access function, enabling the container to remain sealed when closed while allowing efficient ice transfer when the second portion is moved.
Solution Approach 2:
The second lid portion is made movable relative to the first lid portion through various mechanisms (sliding, rotating, or hinged connections). This dynamic configuration allows the lid to transition between a closed sealed state and an open access state, optimizing both container sealing and ice transfer efficiency at different operational stages.
2Device complexity
If manual transfer of ice between storage and dispensing containers is used, then equipment complexity is reduced, but time loss and potential waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
A duct system is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the storage container and dispensing container. The duct enables automated or gravity-assisted ice transfer, eliminating the need for manual handling while maintaining system simplicity. This intermediary structure allows continuous ice flow without requiring complex automated dispensing equipment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the lid is kept closed during ice transfer, then ice is protected from contamination, but the transfer path is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The lid's segmented design allows the first lid portion to remain in place and protect the container interior, while the second lid portion can be moved independently to create an ice transfer path. This segmentation enables the container to maintain protection from contamination while allowing efficient ice transfer through the exposed opening.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods of ice dispensing and ice dispensing devices and systems. Example systems described herein can include a dispensing container with a container lid that includes a first cover portion, a second cover portion, and a third cover portion. The third cover portion can include an opening. A duct can be positioned so the duct extends through the opening in the third cover portion. The duct can dispense ice into the dispensing container through the opening in the third cover portion. The first cover portion and the second cover portion can move between a closed position and an open position, so the first cover portion and the second cover portion do not block the opening in the third cover portion.