Meal tier system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meal containers are cumbersome to fill, carry, and store due to the difficulty in managing multiple containers, and they do not provide a compact storage solution.
Innovation Solution
A meal tier system comprising cylindrical containers that stack neatly and are removably affixed to a side-mounted spindle, allowing for individual swiveling and secure locking, along with optional insulated and dishwasher-safe design, and a sturdy carrying bag for easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple separate food containers are used to store different meals, then food storage capacity is improved, but ease of carrying and storage deteriorates due to the difficulty in managing multiple containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate food containers into a single integrated meal storage system. The stackable container assembly allows multiple containers to be vertically stacked and locked together, forming one unified structure that can be carried as a single unit rather than multiple separate items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple food containers are stacked vertically one inside another. The containers are designed with stacking surfaces that allow them to nest together, with the upper container resting on the lower container, creating a compact vertical arrangement that maximizes storage capacity while minimizing carrying burden.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple separate food containers are used to store different meals, then food storage capacity is improved, but storage space efficiency deteriorates due to lack of compact organization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple food containers are stacked vertically one inside another. The containers are designed with stacking surfaces that allow them to nest together, with the upper container resting on the lower container, creating a compact vertical arrangement that maximizes storage capacity while minimizing carrying burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from horizontal placement of multiple containers to vertical stacking arrangement. By utilizing the vertical dimension, the system achieves compact organization where containers are arranged upward rather than outward, improving space efficiency while maintaining total storage capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate food containers are used, then individual food storage is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple containers needing to be managed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate food containers into a single integrated meal storage system. The stackable container assembly allows multiple containers to be vertically stacked and locked together, forming one unified structure that can be carried as a single unit rather than multiple separate items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the containers with universal stacking features that allow any container in the set to be stacked with any other container. The standardized stacking surfaces and locking mechanisms provide multi-functionality, enabling the same structural features to serve both individual storage and collective organization purposes.
4Stability of the object's composition
If containers are designed for secure stacking and locking, then stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in assembling and disassembling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The removable lids feature engagement features that provide secure locking when assembled but can be easily released when needed, allowing the system to adapt between stable storage and easy access states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the container system into separable segments with standardized interfaces. Each container maintains its structural integrity while featuring modular components (lids, stacking surfaces, locking mechanisms) that can be independently assembled and disassembled, balancing stability during storage with ease of operation during assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to a meal tier system. The system provides a plurality of cylindrical meal containers which stack neatly in tiers, and are removably affixed to a side-mounted spindle. Each container provides a watertight lid and may be individually swiveled around the axis of the spindle. The containers are dishwasher safe and may be insulated. Optionally, a large, sturdy bag with a carrying handle may be provided, such that the entire system, with all containers filled with food, may be fully assembled and securely carried in the bag with one hand.