Wedge-Based Mixing Container Platform for Wear-Resistant Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mixing container support systems are inadequate for securely holding containers of various sizes and shapes, often requiring constant force or weight application, leading to fatigue and potential accidents due to instability and wear issues with friction-based designs.
Innovation Solution
A platform with adjustable engagement blocks and a slidably movable wedge member that securely engages mixing containers of different sizes and shapes, allowing for secure mixing without constant force application, and features channels for debris and fluid diversion and a handle support for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a friction-based recess is used to hold the mixing container, then the container is engaged with frictional force, but the frictional engagement deteriorates over time due to wear and is affected by debris and fluids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the friction-based mechanical engagement system with a positive mechanical locking system using a wedge member. The wedge member has an inclined surface that, when driven forward, mechanically locks the container in place through geometric constraint rather than friction. This substitution eliminates wear-related deterioration and sensitivity to contaminants, providing reliable long-term engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge member acts as an intermediary between the platform and the mixing container. Instead of direct frictional contact between the container and platform surface, the wedge member mediates the engagement by converting linear motion into radial clamping force, providing a reliable mechanical interface that is not directly subject to wear from container insertion/removal.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable engagement system is used to accommodate different container sizes and shapes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic wedge member that can be moved along a linear path to adjust the engagement area size. Instead of multiple fixed-size recesses or complex adjustable mechanisms, a single movable wedge provides continuous adaptability. The wedge's position can be adjusted to accommodate different container diameters, and its inclined geometry automatically adapts to different container shapes, maintaining simplicity while providing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement area parameters (size and shape) are made variable through the movable wedge member. By changing the wedge's position along its linear path, the effective engagement area is dynamically adjusted to match different container sizes. This parameter change approach provides versatility without requiring multiple discrete components or complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If constant pressure is applied to the mixing container during mixing, then the container remains stable, but the individual experiences fatigue and may lose footing
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge member provides self-locking engagement that maintains container stability without requiring continuous user input. Once the wedge is driven into the engagement position, the geometric constraint and friction on the inclined surface automatically maintain the clamping force, freeing the user from the need to apply constant pressure. The system serves itself by maintaining stability through its own mechanical design rather than user effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the human-applied constant pressure system with a self-sustaining mechanical locking system. The wedge member's inclined geometry converts the initial driving force into a sustained radial clamping force that automatically maintains container stability throughout the mixing process, eliminating the need for continuous user effort and the associated fatigue and safety risks.
4Ease of manufacture
If a non-adjustable fixed recess is used for container engagement, then the platform structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate containers of various shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a single movable wedge member that provides dynamic adaptability to the otherwise simple platform structure. The wedge can be positioned to accommodate different container sizes, and its inclined geometry adapts to different shapes. This minimal dynamic element provides versatile container compatibility while maintaining ease of manufacture, as the wedge is a simple component that can be easily fabricated and integrated into the platform.
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 platform provides a safe, stable, and adaptable solution for mixing containers of various sizes and shapes, reducing fatigue and accidents, while being lightweight, portable, and easy to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
A non-skid material, similar to sand paper, lines the bottom and sides of the recess to engage the mixing container with a frictional force
Implementation Method 2
The wedge member is slidably movable along a predetermined, linear path... The engagement face of the wedge member is positioned at an angle with respect to the linear path so that the engagement face gradually decreases the size of the container engagement area
Data Source
AI summary
A platform is provided for securing a container while contents within the container are being mixed. A plurality of engagement blocks and a wedge member extend upwardly from a platform and define a container engagement area into which the container is placed. The wedge member is moved into an engagement position that decreases the container engagement area and secures the container. An area on the platform is provided on which a user stands to provide additional stability to the platform. A support block may be provided behind the wedge member. Channels may be provided to divert debris from the surface of the platform. A handle support may be provided to support tools in an upright position when not in use.