Origami-inspired PET bottle for efficient product evacuation
Innovative PET bottle design using Kresling geometry for near-complete product evacuation. Features twist-driven folding for efficient condiment dispensing, maintaining internal pressure without air entry. Compatible with existing manufacturing, enhancing sustainability and user experience.
Overview
This innovative PET bottle design leverages origami principles, specifically Kresling geometry, to allow near-complete evacuation of viscous products. By integrating a twist-driven folding mechanism, the bottle enables efficient dispensing without air entry, maintaining constant internal pressure and eliminating the common 'glugging' effect. This solution not only enhances user experience but also aligns with sustainability goals by using geometry instead of non-recyclable coatings or additives.
Technical specifications
- Kresling geometry: Utilizes axial compression and torsion to direct contents toward the outlet.
- Twist-driven folding: Enables controlled collapse of the bottle, ensuring efficient product evacuation.
- Material compatibility: Designed for PET, leveraging its elastic-plastic behavior for programmed folding.
- Manufacturing process: Compatible with modified stretch-blow molding, requiring minor mold adjustments.
- Sustainability: Fully recyclable design that maintains food-contact compliance.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, the technology has undergone initial experimental validation and is in the phase of developing finite-element models and creating 3D-printed prototypes. Future steps include producing PET prototypes, measuring evacuation efficiency, and refining design for scalability. The project is conducted in collaboration with industry partners to ensure manufacturability and technical viability.
About Rice University
Rice University is a private research university in Houston recognized for small scale and intensive research. Industry engages through on-campus design and prototyping facilities and multi-tenant research space adjacent to the Texas Medical Center, enabling clinical collaboration and rapid validation. A university-backed innovation district in central Houston links corporate R&D with faculty labs, startups, and talent, and proximity to the Energy Corridor and NASA’s Johnson Space Center provides access to regional clusters. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, NASA, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, startup formation, and streamlined sponsored research agreements.
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