Splash-Resistant Drink Lid With Self-Closing Valve Flap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drink-through lids with reversible openings require manual operation to open and close, which can be inconvenient and may not effectively prevent liquid spillage or splashing when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A lid design featuring a valve chamber with a hollow chamber, a valve flap, and a hinge that automatically rotates between open and closed positions, inhibiting liquid flow when closed and allowing flow when open, with a drain mechanism to prevent splashing and allow nesting for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinged closure member with reversible opening is used, then liquid spillage can be prevented, but manual operation is required which is inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The lid system performs the opening and closing action automatically through suction generated by the user's drinking action, eliminating the need for manual operation of the closure member. The valve chamber and valve flap work together to create this self-service mechanism where the system responds automatically to user intent.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure member transitions from a static or manually operated state to a dynamically responsive state that automatically opens and closes based on pressure differential created during drinking. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to user actions without requiring manual intervention.
2Ease of operation
If a downwardly depressible tab portion with corrugated buttress is used, then automatic opening can be achieved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into functional segments including a valve chamber, valve flap, and closure member, each performing a specific function. This segmentation allows the automatic opening mechanism to be achieved through coordinated action of simpler components rather than a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve chamber acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's suction action and the closure member. It translates the suction pressure into mechanical motion that opens the closure, providing a simpler pathway than direct manipulation of the closure member itself.
3Reliability
If the hinge biases the valve flap to closed position, then liquid flow is effectively inhibited, but the hinge mechanism adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is integrated with the closure member and valve chamber structure, combining multiple functions (rotation axis, biasing force, and structural support) into a unified component rather than separate elements. This merging reduces overall complexity while maintaining effective liquid flow inhibition.
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
Enables convenient, hands-free operation by automatically controlling liquid flow and preventing spillage, while allowing for efficient stacking and storage.
Implementation Method 1
The hinge may couple the valve flap to a sidewall of the one or more sidewalls and may be sized and configured to enable the rotation of the valve flap from an open position to a substantially closed position
Implementation Method 2
Additionally, the hinge may bias the valve flap to the substantially closed position, wherein the valve flap inhibits the flow of liquid through the second opening in the substantially closed position
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, a lid may include a valve chamber comprising a hollow chamber, a valve flap and a hinge. The hollow chamber may be defined by one or more sidewalls and have a first opening at a first longitudinal end and a second opening at an opposing, second longitudinal end. The valve flap may be positioned at least proximate to the second longitudinal end and have a shape and size substantially the same as a shape and size of the second opening. The hinge may couple the valve flap to a sidewall of the one or more sidewalls and may be sized and configured to enable the rotation of the valve flap from an open position to a substantially closed position. Container assemblies and methods of forming lids are also disclosed.