- Overview of the Patent Drawing
- Patent Insight 1: Flexible Inner Sheet for Stirring Efficiency
- Patent Insight 2: Direct Serving Without Mess
- Patent Insight 3: Protective Film for Freshness Maintenance
- Keywords
- Thoughts on the Patent Drawing
- Application of the Technology: “Zero-Gravity Natto Packaging for Space Travel”
Overview of the Patent Drawing
The drawings depict a specialized natto (fermented soybean) packaging designed to facilitate the stirring and serving process. Figures 5 and 6 show a container (1) with an inner lid (2), a protective film (4), and a flexible inner sheet (5). The design allows for easy stirring of the natto within the package, as well as effortless serving. Notably, the flexible inner sheet can be manipulated to direct the natto for pouring, minimizing mess and improving convenience.
Patent Insight 1: Flexible Inner Sheet for Stirring Efficiency
The flexible inner sheet (5) shown in Figure 5 serves a key role in the stirring process. As chopsticks are used to mix the natto, the sheet’s flexibility allows it to conform to the movements, thereby helping to contain the natto and preventing splattering. This design ensures thorough mixing with minimal effort, which is especially important given the sticky and stringy nature of natto.
Patent Insight 2: Direct Serving Without Mess
In Figure 6, the flexible sheet (5) is seen bending towards the container’s edge to guide the natto out. The sheet’s material and design facilitate a controlled pour, minimizing drips and allowing the user to serve the natto directly from the packaging onto a dish or bowl. This innovation is useful for reducing clean-up time and improving the overall experience for consumers, especially those who consume natto regularly.
Patent Insight 3: Protective Film for Freshness Maintenance
The protective film (4) placed over the natto in Figure 5 ensures that the product remains fresh while being stored. This film acts as a barrier against contaminants and helps to retain the desired moisture level. Its easy-peel feature allows for quick removal, ensuring that consumers can access the natto without hassle. Such considerations are important for convenience foods where both quality and ease of use are valued.
Keywords
natto packaging, easy stirring, flexible sheet, direct serving, protective film, convenience food packaging
Thoughts on the Patent Drawing
As a natto enthusiast, I found the patent drawing for the “Natto Packaging with Easy Stirring and Serving Feature” particularly intriguing. Due to its sticky nature, stirring and transferring natto can often be cumbersome, but this packaging seems to address those challenges effectively. The design of the flexible inner sheet allows for easy stirring within the container and facilitates a mess-free transfer directly onto a plate or bowl. This feature is especially appealing for busy mornings or when one wishes to enjoy natto conveniently. Additionally, the inclusion of a protective film to maintain freshness adds to the product’s appeal. Such user-friendly innovations have the potential to enhance daily dining experiences and may encourage increased consumption of natto.
Application of the Technology: “Zero-Gravity Natto Packaging for Space Travel”
Purpose
To enable astronauts to enjoy natto in space without the hassle of floating beans or sticky mess, this packaging simulates gravity for easy stirring and serving. It ensures a clean, safe, and entertaining eating experience in zero-gravity environments.
System Components
- Gravity Simulation Container: Uses centrifugal force to direct the natto downward, mimicking Earth-like gravity.
- Magnetic Stirring Unit: Equipped with built-in magnets that move a special spoon, ensuring even mixing without spills.
- Sealed Serving Nozzle: Dispenses small portions of natto smoothly, preventing floating beans in zero gravity.
- Multi-Layer Protective Film: Shields the natto from harsh space conditions, preserving its taste and freshness.
- Humorous Message Feature: Displays fun messages like “Conquer space with natto power!” to keep astronauts amused during meals.
Operational Flow
- Open and Activate Centrifugal Mode: Open the lid and turn on the centrifugal mode to simulate gravity.
- Start Magnetic Stirring: Insert the special spoon and activate the magnetic stirring unit for spill-free mixing.
- Serve with Nozzle: Use the sealed nozzle to dispense small amounts of natto onto the space food tray.
- Eat and Enjoy Messages: While eating, enjoy the humorous messages displayed on the screen.
- Clean and Store: Turn off the centrifugal mode, seal the container, and store it for future use.
This innovation allows astronauts to enjoy natto comfortably in space, representing a new step in bringing Japanese food culture to the cosmos.