C-Shaped Arcuate Seal for Aluminum Pull-Tab Can
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aluminum pull-tab beverage cans pose a risk of cuts to users due to the sharp edge created by the scored flap when opened, necessitating a safety seal to prevent injuries.
Innovation Solution
A safety seal comprising an arcuate seal member, C-shaped with a top and bottom surface, and channels to receive the lid and flap, which remains secured around the open lip after the flap is folded in, preventing exposure to sharp edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a scored flap is used in the pull-tab mechanism, then the can can be easily opened, but a sharp edge is created that may cause cuts to users
Solution Approach 1:
A seal member is introduced as an intermediary component between the user's fingers and the sharp edge of the scored flap. The seal member includes a C-shaped cross-section with channels that receive the lid and flap, positioning the seal between the user and the potential cutting edge, thereby preventing direct contact with the sharp surface while maintaining the opening mechanism's functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The seal member is constructed from a flexible yet resilient material that can deform to accommodate the opening mechanism while maintaining its protective function. The flexibility allows the seal to conform to the curved surfaces of the lid and flap, while the resilience enables it to return to its original shape, continuously providing protection against the sharp edge during the opening process
Data Source
AI summary
A safety seal for use with a container is described. The container includes a top lid having a channel defined around a portion of a scored flap. A pull-tab engages the flap and enables opening of the flap and creating an open lip within the top lid. The safety seal is an arcuate seal member received within the arcuate channel to seal the container interior volume. The arcuate seal member is C-shaped and has a top surface and a bottom surface defining a first thickness, and a first edge and a second edge defining a first width. The first edge defines a first channel that receives a portion of the top lid therein. The second edge defines a second channel that receives a portion of the flap therein. Also, one or both of the top surface and bottom surface may include a respective furrow defined therein.