Actuator Packaging for Refillable Cartridges Using Hybrid Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging solutions for dispensing content from refill cartridges are limited in their manufacturing methods and material options, particularly lacking in sustainability and versatility.
Innovation Solution
The use of injection molding, in-mold labeling, lamination, and hybrid structures combining semi-rigid, flexible, and composite materials to create actuators for dispensing content from refill cartridges, along with biodegradable and recyclable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional packaging methods are used for dispensing content from refill cartridges, then manufacturing is simpler, but sustainability and material versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is constructed using composite materials including biodegradable polymers, flexible membranes, and rigid structural components. This allows the packaging to achieve both sustainability goals and functional versatility while managing manufacturing complexity through integrated design
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system is divided into separate modular components: a reusable actuator housing and replaceable refill cartridges. This segmentation allows different materials to be optimized for specific functions while simplifying the overall manufacturing process through standardized interfaces
2Object-affected harmful factors
If biodegradable and recyclable materials are used, then environmental impact is reduced, but manufacturing precision and structural reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The design utilizes parameter changes in biodegradable materials through controlled cross-linking density, crystallinity, and additive formulations to achieve the necessary structural precision and reliability while maintaining environmental benefits
Solution Approach 2:
Composite structures combine biodegradable materials with reinforcing elements and protective coatings to ensure manufacturing precision and structural reliability are maintained despite using environmentally friendly base materials
3Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid structures combining semi-rigid, flexible, and composite materials are used, then functionality and sustainability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: semi-rigid components for structural support, flexible membranes for content delivery, and composite elements for connectivity. Each zone is optimized independently, managing overall structural complexity while achieving functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator design incorporates multi-functional elements that serve multiple purposes: the same structural component provides both mechanical support and acts as a sealing surface, reducing the need for additional parts and managing structural complexity
Data Source
Figure 1A~3B
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AI summary
Disclosed herein are actuator based packages for use with cartridge refills. A package includes a container configured to hold a cartridge refill, a replaceable cap configured to fit the container, and an actuator mechanism integral with the container. The actuator mechanism is configured to compress the cartridge refill to dispense a useable material contained in the cartridge refill. The actuator mechanism can be a pump mechanism. The actuator mechanism can be a slider mechanism.