Asymmetric Toggle Closure Actuator with Articulated Rear Flange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art dispensing closures require precise alignment and assembly, are sensitive to premature opening, and have aesthetic and functional issues due to gaps and sharp edges, especially when subjected to handling and deformation.
Innovation Solution
A toggle-action dispensing closure with an asymmetrically pivotally mounted actuator and a rear flange that articulates inwardly, reducing assembly complexity, eliminating gaps, and enhancing durability and aesthetics by allowing zero clearance under the actuator button, thus preventing inadvertent opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centralized, symmetrically disposed pivot point is used, then the closure can function properly with equal movement in the housing, but the assembly requires precision alignment under tight clearances and a secondary assembly step
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the pivot point off-center within the housing, creating an asymmetric mounting of the actuator. This asymmetric configuration eliminates the need for precise alignment during assembly while maintaining proper closure function, as the off-center pivot naturally accommodates tolerances and shrinkage variations without requiring tight clearance fits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the actuator and housing into a more integrated assembly by using an off-center pivot mounting that eliminates the need for separate alignment steps. The actuator is mounted directly on the housing with the pivot point serving as both a functional and alignment reference, combining what were previously separate precision alignment operations into a single, more tolerant assembly process.
2Reliability
If a centralized pivot point with equal movement is used, then the seal remains unbroken during actuation, but the closure becomes sensitive to premature opening or dislodging during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric, off-center pivot mounting creates unequal movement characteristics that provide inherent stability during handling. The asymmetric configuration creates a more robust mechanical engagement that resists premature opening while maintaining seal integrity during proper actuation, as the off-center pivot point creates a more stable fulcrum that is less susceptible to dislodging forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The off-center pivot mounting inherently provides cushioning against premature opening by creating a more stable mechanical equilibrium. The asymmetric positioning creates natural mechanical advantages that absorb and distribute handling forces, preventing inadvertent actuation while maintaining the sealed state during normal handling conditions.
3Ease of operation
If a long actuator flange or tail is used, then the toggle can open properly, but sufficient clearance must be provided under the button location which increases the overall size
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric pivot mounting allows the actuator flange to be positioned more efficiently, eliminating the need for excessive clearance under the button location. The off-center pivot creates a more compact arrangement where the flange can articulate inward without requiring the same amount of clearance space, thereby reducing the overall footprint while maintaining proper toggle opening functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic articulation of the rear flange, which can deflect inward during assembly and operation. This dynamic behavior allows the flange to adapt its position, reducing the static clearance requirements while maintaining the mechanical advantage needed for proper toggle opening. The articulated flange provides the necessary movement range without requiring excessive clearance space.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional actuator mounting is used, then assembly can proceed, but gaps and sharp edges are created between housing and actuator affecting aesthetics and functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric pivot mounting enables a more precise fit between the actuator and housing, eliminating gaps and sharp edges. The off-center pivot creates a natural reference that guides the actuator into proper alignment with the housing features, resulting in a cleaner interface that improves both aesthetics and functionality without complicating the assembly process.
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 solution simplifies assembly, reduces sensitivity to handling and deformation, enhances aesthetics, and ensures a secure seal by absorbing energy and requiring less force to actuate, thereby preventing unintended opening.
Implementation Method 1
The articulatable hinge in the actuator was surprisingly seen to absorb energy transferred from housing deflection, thereby reducing the moment generated about the pivot point which prevents unintended opening
Implementation Method 2
an actuator having a top wall including a top rear wall overlying the transverse floor and defining a nozzle opening with a floor, the actuator being asymmetrically and pivotally mounted inside the housing for movement between a closed, non-dispensing position and an open, dispensing position
Data Source
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AI summary
A toggle-action dispensing closure (10) is provided for manipulation between a closed, non-dispensing orientation and an open, dispensing orientation that is easily assembled, resists inadvertent opening and has an improved aesthetic appearance for variously shaped closures. The closure includes an actuator (50) rotationally mounted on a housing (14) whereby the housing may be secured to a container (200). The axis of rotation of the actuator is asymmetrically disposed in the housing. The actuator has a rear flange (55) with an articulatable hinge (57) that is longer than its front flange (54). When the closure is securely mounted to a container, the portion (93) of the rear flange below the hinge resiliently contacts the container assisting in preventing inadvertently opening the closure.