Two-Piece Spill-Proof Open Cup with Elastomeric Flap Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spill-proof cups are complex, difficult to clean, provide inadequate seals, are uncomfortable to use, and require awkward drinking angles, especially when near empty, and have multiple parts that complicate assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece spill-proof open cup design featuring a container and lid with a flange, posts, and an elastomeric or silicone flap that creates a tight seal without a complex valve structure, allowing for ergonomic and comfortable use from any rim position, and easy assembly/disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex valve structure is used to prevent spills, then spill-proof performance is improved, but device complexity and ease of cleaning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex internal valve mechanism from the lid and replaces it with a simple elastomeric flap that responds passively to pressure differential. This extracts the problematic complex components while retaining the spill-proof function through a much simpler mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric flap automatically responds to pressure differential without any external control or complex mechanism. The material itself performs the sealing and opening functions through its elastic properties, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for complex valve structures.
2Reliability
If a complex valve structure with multiple parts is used, then spill-proof performance is improved, but ease of assembly and cleaning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed as a segmented structure with distinct functional elements (flap, hinge, bead, channels) that can be manufactured separately and assembled simply. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly by users.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into single components: the bead integrates sealing, positioning, and flow control functions; the flap combines sealing and valve functions; the lid body integrates structural support and user interface elements. This merging reduces the total number of parts while maintaining functionality.
3Reliability
If a tight seal mechanism is implemented, then spill prevention is improved, but ergonomic comfort and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the physical parameter of elastomeric material properties to achieve both tight sealing and easy operation. The material's elasticity allows it to conform tightly to the flange for sealing while simultaneously allowing easy deformation under user pressure for comfortable drinking. The bead geometry parameters are optimized to provide sealing force without creating uncomfortable pressure points.
4Reliability
If the cup is designed to work properly when near empty, then spill-proof performance is improved, but drinking angle becomes awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The drinking system is made dynamic through the hinged flap mechanism that adapts to different liquid levels. When the cup is near empty, the flap naturally positions itself to maintain the seal while allowing liquid flow, eliminating the need for awkward fixed angles. The system dynamically adjusts to maintain both spill-proof performance and comfortable drinking geometry.
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 design eliminates complex valve structures, ensures a tight seal to prevent spills, provides a comfortable drinking experience, and allows for use as a regular open cup, with only two parts for simplified assembly and cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
The flap is constructed so that it is loaded against the flange... the lid is constructed of an elastomeric material... the lid is constructed of silicone
Data Source
AI summary
A two-piece spill proof open cup is disclosed comprising a container suitable for holding liquids, such as a beverage, and a lid. The container has a sidewall, a neck adjacent the sidewall and an opening defined by the neck. The neck has a flange along an edge of the neck and a plurality of posts adjacent the flange. The lid is adapted to fasten to the container. The lid has an upper surface external to the two-piece spill proof open cup and a lower surface internal to the two-piece spill proof open cup. The lid also has a flap, a lid body with a vent, a hinge connecting the flap to the lid body, a handle on the upper surface and a bead having channels. The bead is integrated into the lower surface. The lid flap is adapted to form a liquid tight seal between the lid and container.