Threaded Filter Adapter for Leak-Safe Fluid Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid container designs often have narrow openings that prevent the introduction of ice cubes or filters, leading to reduced filter effectiveness and increased complexity with separate fittings, which add expense and potential leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
The development of externally and internally threaded adapters configured for fluid containers and filter assemblies, allowing for the easy installation and removal of standard format filters, and enabling the use of filters within the container while maintaining a secure and leak-proof seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the container opening is made narrow to maintain simplicity and seal integrity, then leakage risk is reduced and structure is simplified, but the ability to introduce ice cubes or filters is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the container system into two functional parts: a narrow container body that maintains seal integrity, and a separate threaded adapter assembly that provides filter introduction capability. The adapter acts as an independent segment with its own opening mechanism, allowing filters to be introduced without compromising the main container's narrow opening design.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded adapter serves as an intermediary component between the user and the container interior. It provides a dedicated interface for introducing filters through its own opening mechanism, while the main container maintains its narrow opening for seal integrity. The adapter mediates between the conflicting requirements by providing a separate access path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate fittings are added to enable filter introduction, then the ability to introduce filters is improved, but device complexity and potential leakage points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single threaded adapter assembly: the adapter body, the filter introduction mechanism, and the sealing interface are combined into one integrated component. This eliminates the need for multiple separate fittings while maintaining the ability to introduce filters effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded adapter is designed as a multi-functional component that serves as both the introduction mechanism for filters and the sealing interface for the container. It combines the functions of an opening mechanism, a filter holder, and a seal, reducing the overall number of components needed in the system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate fittings are added to enable filter introduction, then the ability to introduce filters is improved, but expense and potential leakage issues increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into a main container and a separate adapter assembly, the invention isolates the opening mechanism to the adapter only. This segmentation ensures that the main container's seal remains intact and unaffected by the adapter's opening/closing operations, reducing overall leakage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded adapter acts as an intermediary that handles all opening and filtering operations, protecting the main container's seal from exposure to potential leakage points. The adapter's design incorporates sealing elements specifically at its interface, isolating the critical seal from the filter introduction mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A threaded adapter comprises first externally-facing threads having a first diameter; second externally-facing threads at a first end of the adapter, the second externally-facing threads having a second diameter less than the first diameter, and third externally-facing threads at a second end opposite to the first. The adapter further comprises a first interior region adjacent the first end having a first opening and a first cylindrical shape with a first interior diameter; a second interior region adjacent the second end having a second opening and a second cylindrical shape with a second interior diameter less than the first; and a step region between the first and second interior regions including a seating surface perpendicular to axes of the cylindrical shapes. The first interior region, the step region, and the second interior region are axially aligned and configured to permit a fluid to pass between the first and second end.