Storage Container with Pivoting Measuring Spout for Precise Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage containers for dry and liquid foods lack an efficient method for dispensing a precise amount, often resulting in unsanitary conditions and inaccurate serving sizes, as they either use scoops that can be lost or spouts that dispense excessive amounts.
Innovation Solution
A storage container with a pivotally mounted spout that doubles as a measuring cup, allowing for controlled dispensing of a set volume, which can be fixed or adjustable, and may be integrated into the side wall or lid, with nested spouts for varying measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a scoop is stored inside the container, then the container can dispense food, but the scoop can become lost or buried under the food
Solution Approach 1:
The spout is integrated directly into the container structure, merging the dispensing function with the container itself. This eliminates the need for a separate scoop, as the spout serves as the dispensing mechanism. The spout can be opened to allow food to be poured out or closed to seal the container, combining multiple functions in one integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The spout serves multiple functions: it acts as a seal when closed, a measuring cup when opened to a specific position, and a pouring spout when fully opened. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate dispensing tools like scoops, while ensuring reliable food dispensing capability.
2Ease of operation
If a spout is integrated into the container, then food can be poured out, but the user dispenses an amount larger than the desired serving size
Solution Approach 1:
The spout is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned at different angles. The spout can be opened to a first position where it functions as a measuring cup with defined volume markings, or opened further to a second position for free pouring. This dynamic positioning allows the user to control the dispensing amount precisely by selecting the appropriate spout position.
Solution Approach 2:
The spout includes pre-marked volume measurements and can be positioned at predetermined angles corresponding to specific serving sizes. This preliminary marking allows the user to quickly and accurately measure the desired amount without needing separate measuring tools, as the measurement function is built into the spout structure itself.
3Productivity
If the spout is made larger to allow free pouring, then dispensing is easier, but the serving size becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The spout's size and opening angle are dynamically adjustable. When precise measurement is needed, the spout is positioned at a specific angle that creates a controlled opening size corresponding to the desired serving volume. When speed is prioritized, the spout can be opened wider for faster dispensing. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt between precision and speed based on user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The spout opening is effectively segmented into different functional positions: a first position for precise measuring with a controlled opening size, and a second position for rapid pouring with a larger effective opening. This segmentation of the single spout into multiple functional states allows it to serve both precision measurement and high-speed dispensing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container (1) having a pour spout (7) that doubles as a measuring cup for dispensing a set amount of contents from the storage container. A user may manipulate the storage container to force the contents into the spout. The contents are prevented from falling or spilling out of the spout while the storage container is in an upright position.