Segmented Food Package Assembly with Connecting Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-compartment food packaging is complex, inflexible, and results in food waste due to fixed product combinations and shelf life limitations, lacking user flexibility and sustainability.
Innovation Solution
A package assembly comprising two separate containers, one for a liquid or gel product and one for a solid product, connected via a connecting device that allows fluid communication only when needed, enabling flexible mixing and use without compromising cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multi-compartment packaging containers are used to keep food products separate, then food products can be kept separate until use, but the design and construction becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into separate single-compartment containers, each independently sealed. This segmentation allows simple manufacturing of individual containers while maintaining the ability to keep different food products separate. The complexity is reduced by avoiding integrated multi-compartment structures and instead using multiple independent units that can be combined at the point of use.
2Reliability
If multi-compartment containers are used, then products can be kept separate, but flexibility for the final user is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a fixed multi-compartment structure to a dynamic configuration where single-compartment containers can be independently selected, combined, and connected based on user needs. The connecting device enables flexible assembly of different container combinations, allowing users to adapt the packaging system to various food products and portion requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single-compartment container design with a universal connecting device allows the same basic unit to serve multiple functions and be combined in various configurations. This universal design enables users to create different packaging arrangements for different food products, enhancing versatility while maintaining simple container construction.
3Reliability
If multi-compartment containers are used, then products can be kept separate, but shelf life is dictated by the product with the shortest shelf life, resulting in food waste
Solution Approach 1:
By using separate single-compartment containers for different food products, each container can be independently sealed and stored. This allows products with different shelf lives to be kept separate in their optimal storage conditions, and only connected when ready for use, preventing premature degradation and reducing food waste.
Solution Approach 2:
Food products are pre-packaged in individually sealed containers that maintain their respective shelf lives independently. The connecting action is postponed until the moment of use, allowing each product to remain in its optimal storage state until needed, thereby maximizing shelf life and minimizing waste.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate containers are used for liquid and solid food products, then flexibility and reduced food waste are achieved, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple simple single-compartment containers manufactured independently through straightforward processes. This segmentation allows each container to be produced using simple, cost-effective manufacturing methods while the overall system achieves flexibility through the combination of these basic units.
Solution Approach 2:
A simple connecting device serves as an intermediary element that links the separately manufactured single-compartment containers. This intermediary component enables the assembly of flexible packaging configurations without requiring complex integrated manufacturing processes, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving user flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is described a food package assembly comprising a first container hosting at least one first food product, a second container hosting at least one second food product, and a connecting device configured for forming a communication channel between the first container and the second container. Use of the packaging assembly is also disclosed together with a process for making the packaging assembly.