Multi-Contact Storage Container for Better Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage containers, such as cup holders, have a circular shape that results in suboptimal heat transfer efficiency due to line contact with cylindrical items, and the manufacturing process introduces a take-out gradient, leading to a non-perpendicular interface between the side and bottom surfaces, further reducing heat transfer.
Innovation Solution
The storage container features a non-circular or combination of shapes on its inner surface for multiple contact points with items, and an inclined bottom surface to ensure right-angle contact, potentially incorporating thermal conductive materials and a pressurizing member for enhanced heat transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the storage container is formed in a circular shape to accommodate cylindrical items, then the ease of insertion is improved, but the heat transfer efficiency deteriorates due to line contact only
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container transitions from a circular cross-section to an asymmetric shape with a flattened side and protruding contact portions. This asymmetric geometry enables multiple contact points with cylindrical items while maintaining ease of insertion, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and heat transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds dimensional complexity by creating protruding contact portions that extend into the interior space. This transforms the contact interface from a simple line contact (1D) to a multi-point surface contact (2D/3D), improving heat transfer while preserving the circular outer轮廓 for easy insertion
2Ease of manufacture
If the take-out gradient is applied to the mold for easy demolding, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the heat transfer efficiency deteriorates due to non-perpendicular side and bottom surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is divided into distinct geometric segments: a base portion with the take-out gradient for easy demolding, and a side portion with perpendicular surfaces and protruding contact portions for optimal heat transfer. This segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific function without compromise
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the storage container are given different geometric qualities: the base has an inclined surface for demolding, while the sides have perpendicular surfaces with localized protrusions for heat transfer. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between manufacturing ease and thermal performance
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
This design improves heat transfer efficiency by allowing multiple contact points and ensuring proper alignment of the side and bottom surfaces, enabling better thermal conductivity and efficient cooling or heating of items.
Implementation Method 1
a contact portion which is formed in the inner surface of the accommodating compartment and gets in contact with the side of the article to make a heat transfer to the article
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container is disclosed. A storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: at least one accommodation portion for accommodating goods; and a contact portion formed at the inner lateral surface of the accommodation portion and transferring heat to the goods by making contact with the inner lateral surface of the goods, wherein the inner lateral surface of the accommodation portion is formed in any one of a non-circular shape, a combined shape of a circle and a non-circle, a combined shape of circles having different radii of curvature, a combined shape of a non-circle and a non-circle, a combined shape of a circle or a non-circle and a polygon, a combined shape of a circle or a non-circle and a plane, a combined shape of different shapes of polygons, and a polygonal shape.