Split-Able Funnel Structure for Thorough Cleaning Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional funnels face challenges in cleaning due to residual liquid adherence, contamination risks, and lack of easy disassembly for storage, particularly when used with viscous substances, and they often introduce cross-contamination across applications.

Innovation Solution

A split-able funnel design with a conical body that longitudinally splits into two halves, featuring a snap-fit or hinged mechanism, made from durable and flexible materials, allowing easy cleaning and secure storage, with optional measurement markings, a filter mechanism, and a spout for controlled pouring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional funnels are made from a single piece of rigid material, then the funnel structure is simple and durable, but cleaning becomes difficult and cross-contamination occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunnel structure simplicityVSAvoidcleaning ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The funnel is divided into two separable halves that can be detached from each other, allowing complete disassembly for thorough cleaning. This segmentation enables access to all interior surfaces including the stem and conical body, eliminating blind spots where residue could accumulate while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of two basic components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If traditional funnels are made from a single piece of rigid material, then the funnel maintains its shape well, but it cannot be easily disassembled for cleaning or storage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunnel shape stabilityVSAvoiddisassembly ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The funnel transitions from a static single-piece structure to a dynamic two-piece design that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The flexible connection between the two halves allows the funnel to be configured for use or cleaned by simple separation, adding operational flexibility without compromising structural integrity during use

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If traditional funnels are made from rigid materials, then the funnel is durable, but it does not allow for easy access to the interior for thorough cleaning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunnel durabilityVSAvoidcleaning access

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The funnel halves are constructed from flexible material that can be easily manipulated during cleaning. This flexibility allows the material to be bent, folded, or stretched to access difficult-to-reach areas inside the funnel, while still maintaining sufficient durability and structural integrity during the pouring function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Adaptability or versatility

If the same funnel is used for different applications, then resource utilization is efficient, but contamination and odor problems occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunnel multi-application useVSAvoidcontamination and odor

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The funnel is designed to be easily disposable or replaceable between different applications. The simple two-piece construction makes it inexpensive and straightforward to discard after use, eliminating the need for complex cleaning procedures and ensuring that cross-contamination between different liquids or substances cannot occur

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20250296827A1Split-able funnel

Publication Date: 2025.09.25 PROUTY WILLIAM JAMES

AI summary

A split-able funnel device designed for efficient liquid transfer and easy cleaning. The funnel features a conical body that tapers from a wide opening to a narrow stem, allowing precise pouring into small containers. The innovative design includes a longitudinal split, enabling the funnel to open fully for thorough cleaning and convenient storage. The device incorporates a snap-fit or hinged splitting mechanism for secure assembly and easy separation. Additionally, the funnel body includes measurement markings for accurate liquid transfer and a filter mechanism for separating solids from liquids. Constructed from durable, flexible materials, the lightweight funnel is stackable and available in various sizes and colors, making it suitable for diverse applications. This split-able funnel device minimizes spillage and waste, providing a user-friendly solution for clean and efficient liquid transfer.