Handle Assembly for Airtight Container Using Segmented Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional airtight container handle assemblies that use shrink-fits can damage the cover or handle due to tight tolerances, and loose tolerances lead to separation issues during assembly and use.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly for airtight containers that employs a pair of side members with insertion holes and coupling grooves, a central member with fixed parts, and a separation preventing mechanism, such as thermal or ultrasonic bonding, to securely attach the handle to the cover without relying on shrink-fits, using protrusions and insertion projections for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If shrink-fit is used to tightly fit the locking handle to the cover, then the attachment strength is improved, but the risk of damage to the cover or handle increases due to small tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The locking handle is divided into multiple components: a handle body, a locking protrusion, and a separate coupling mechanism. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently, reducing stress concentration and preventing damage while maintaining attachment strength
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling protrusion on the cover acts as an intermediary element between the handle body and the main assembly. This intermediary component facilitates secure attachment through a staged coupling process, distributing forces evenly and preventing direct damage to the cover or handle
2Strength
If small tolerance is used for the coupling hole and coupling protrusion, then the attachment strength is improved, but the ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into a coupling protrusion on the cover and a corresponding coupling hole in the handle body. This segmentation allows for standardized, pre-manufactured components with controlled tolerances, making assembly easier while maintaining strength
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling protrusion and hole are pre-formed during the molding process with precise dimensions. This preliminary action ensures that the components fit together correctly without requiring tight tolerances during final assembly, easing the manufacturing process
3Ease of manufacture
If large tolerance is used for the coupling hole and coupling protrusion, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates due to potential separation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking protrusion features a curved, arc-shaped engagement surface that complements the coupling hole. This curvature design provides a self-centering effect during assembly, ensuring reliable connection even with larger tolerances, while the rounded geometry facilitates easier insertion
4Productivity
If the locking handle is integrally formed by injection molding, then the manufacturing efficiency is improved, but the flexibility in designing the coupling mechanism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
While the handle body is integrally formed for manufacturing efficiency, the coupling mechanism is designed as a distinct functional segment with standardized features. This allows the integral molding process to be combined with adaptable coupling designs, maintaining both productivity and design flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling protrusion and hole are designed with universal, standardized dimensions that can be applied across different handle configurations. This universality allows the integral molding process to produce varied handle designs while maintaining consistent, reliable coupling mechanisms
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 handle assembly can be coupled to the cover without damaging either component, ensuring secure attachment and preventing separation, thus enhancing the assembly process and usability of the airtight container.
Implementation Method 1
the fixed parts are bonded to the coupling grooves by thermal bonding or ultrasonic bonding
Implementation Method 2
the fixed parts are bonded to the coupling grooves by thermal bonding or ultrasonic bonding
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6a~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a handle assembly for an airtight container. The handle assembly, intended for an airtight container including a main body on which a plurality of protrusions protruding outwardly are disposed on a circumference of the upper end thereof, and a cover on which a plurality of protruding protrusions having insertion projections on either end thereof are disposed on the circumference thereof, the cover protruding outwardly so as to correspond to the protrusions and opening or closing an upper side of the main body, includes: a pair of side members, each having an insertion hole in which each of the insertion projections of the cover is inserted, and a coupling groove having a predetermined size and being positioned spaced apart from the insertion hole; a central member including fixed parts on either end thereof such that the central member is inserted and fixed to the coupling grooves between the pair of the coupling grooves between the pair of side members; and a separation prevention unit preventing the fixed parts from being separated from the coupling grooves.