Stretchable Universal Lid for Multi-Size Container Spill-Proof Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spill-proof lids are not versatile and can only fit specific sized containers, requiring multiple lids for different vessels, which is inconvenient and wasteful, especially for parents and children who need easy access to food and drinks on-the-go.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, stretchy lid with a self-sealing outlet that can fit various container sizes, allowing access without removing the lid, featuring a top wall and sidewall that stretch to accommodate different shapes and sizes, and includes optional features like handles, spouts, and securement straps for easy use and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional lids are designed to fit specific sized containers, then the lid provides a secure fit and spill-proof seal, but the lid cannot be used with containers of different sizes, requiring multiple lids
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a flexible sidewall that can stretch and conform to containers of various diameters, allowing a single lid design to serve multiple container sizes. The flexible material enables the lid to adapt its inner diameter to match different container openings while maintaining the seal integrity, thus one lid can universally fit multiple containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid utilizes material with variable flexibility parameters that allow it to stretch within a specific range. By selecting materials with appropriate elastic properties, the lid can dynamically change its effective size parameters to match different container diameters while returning to its original shape after removal, enabling universal compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid lid structure is used, then the lid maintains its shape and provides structural stability, but the lid cannot be stretched to fit different container sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The lid incorporates a flexible sidewall made of elastic material that can deform and stretch to accommodate different container sizes. This flexible shell maintains structural integrity through its elastic properties, allowing it to stretch during application and then return to its original stable configuration, providing both adaptability and stability.
3Ease of operation
If the lid is made fully removable for access, then the user can easily retrieve food or drink, but the lid cannot provide spill-proof protection when closed
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into functional segments: a flexible sidewall that can be pushed inward to create access openings, and a top wall with outlet. This segmentation allows different portions of the lid to perform different functions - the sidewall provides flexible access control while the top wall maintains seal integrity when closed, enabling both ease of operation and spill-proof protection.
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
The flexible lid provides a universal solution for accessing food and drinks from any container size, reducing the need for multiple lids, enhancing convenience and storage efficiency, while maintaining a spill-proof seal, suitable for both children and adults.
Implementation Method 1
The flexibility of the lid material allows it to be stretched to fit over a variety of vessels of different shapes and sizes
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a universal food and drink lid. The lid is formed of a stretchy material so that it can fit on a plurality of containers of different sizes. The lid is also formed of a material with sufficient elasticity so that once it is fit onto a container, such as a cup or a bowl, the lid forms a seal therewith that allows for a spill-proof connection between the container and the lid. The lid may further include an outlet for removing the contents of the container without removing the lid. The lid may further include an outlet that is a spout, an opening with a movable stopper, a straw opening or an opening sized to fit the hand of a user.