Asymmetrical Interlocking Child-Resistant Closure Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional resealable containers with zipper closures are not suitable for medicines and hazardous substances due to ease of opening and the complexity and expense of existing child-proof systems.
Innovation Solution
A resealable container with a child-resistant closure system featuring asymmetrical female and male interlocking members that require proper rotation to disengage, preventing unauthorized access while allowing authorized access when correctly opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional zipper closures are used, then ease of operation is improved, but child resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system employs asymmetrical interlocking members where the first lateral interlocking member has a specific geometry that only engages with the second lateral interlocking member in one orientation. This asymmetry prevents children from opening the container by pulling flaps in incorrect directions, while adults can easily open it by understanding and applying the correct pulling motion.
2Reliability
If existing child-proof zipper systems are used, then child resistance is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into distinct functional segments: first and second flaps for opening initiation, first and second extension strips for mechanical advantage, and first and second lateral interlocking members for secure engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, simplifying the overall design while maintaining child resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The extension strips serve both as structural elements connecting the flaps to the container walls and as mechanical levers that amplify the opening force. The lateral interlocking members simultaneously provide both security against unauthorized opening and a user-friendly opening mechanism when correct force is applied.
3Reliability
If existing child-proof zipper systems are used, then child resistance is improved, but manufacturing cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system applies child-resistant features only at critical locations where security is needed (the lateral interlocking members), while the rest of the container structure remains simple and inexpensive to manufacture. This localized approach to child resistance minimizes additional manufacturing costs while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure components are designed to be simple plastic elements that can be easily molded and assembled. The interlocking members use basic geometric shapes rather than complex mechanisms, allowing for cost-effective mass production through standard plastic molding processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A child-resistant resealable container comprising a closure strip assembly having first and second lateral interlocking members. The first lateral interlocking member is attached to a first extension strip, and the second lateral interlocking member is attached to a second extension strip. The first and second extension strips are attached to the interior surfaces of the respective first and second walls below the top edge of the first and second walls such that a portion of the first and second walls extends to define first and second flaps. The first and second lateral interlocking members are configured to become disengaged from each other when the first and second flaps are pulled apart from each other as the second extension strip is held against the interior surface of the second wall, but remain connected when the flaps are pulled apart without also holding the second extension strip against the interior surface of the second wall.