Bistable Pull-Snap Mechanism for Pliable Container Hold Open
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pliable containers tend to unroll after initial opening, leading to product spoilage due to inadequate sealing mechanisms that fail to maintain the open position while allowing easy access and resealing.
Innovation Solution
A bistable pull-snap hold open mechanism using flat strip-like members coupled by locking hinge mechanisms with spring flaps or flexures, allowing easy access and resealing by transitioning between open and closed configurations with slight pressure application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a zip-type closure is used to seal the container, then the sealing functionality is improved, but the ease of access to the interior is worsened because the closure does not maintain the side walls in an open position
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into two separate functional components: a zip-type closure mechanism for sealing and a hold-open mechanism for maintaining accessibility. The hold-open mechanism includes a first member and a second member that can be positioned to maintain the side walls in an open position, allowing users to access the interior easily while the zip closure remains available for sealing when needed.
2Reliability
If the container end is rolled up for storage, then the sealing is improved, but the stability is worsened because the rolled-up ends tend to unroll between uses
Solution Approach 1:
The hold-open mechanism is integrated into the container structure itself, with first and second members that are part of the container body. These members automatically engage to maintain the side walls in an open position when the container is opened, eliminating the need for external clips or separate closure devices. The mechanism provides self-sustaining hold-open functionality through its structural design.
3Stability of the object's composition
If external clips are used to prevent unrolling, then the stability is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened because clips can be misplaced and are only used when readily available
Solution Approach 1:
The hold-open functionality is merged with the container structure by integrating the first and second members directly into the container body. This eliminates the need for separate external clips, as the hold-open mechanism is now an inherent part of the container that is always available and cannot be misplaced. The first member and second member work together as an integrated system to maintain the open position.
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 mechanism effectively maintains the container's sidewalls in an open position for easy access and can be sealed using a zip-type closure, preventing product spoilage by ensuring consistent resealing functionality.
Implementation Method 1
one or more spring flaps or flexures which allow the hinge to be biased in an open or closed configuration
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment relates to a bistable hold open mechanism including first and second flexible flat, strip like members positioned relative to each other, The members include opposing first and second ends; an inner mating surface; and an opposing outer bonding surface, One or more pivot members and/or hinges is integrated into the second member separating it into a side seal portion and an operable portion, the side seal portion coupled to the operable portion. Embodiments include flexures which allow the pivot members or hinges to be biased in open or closed configurations. Applying a slight pressure to the members opens the mechanism. When the mechanism reaches a predetermined point, the pivot or hinges lock, maintaining an open configuration. Closing the mechanism only requires a slight pressure be applied to the external surface of the members, resulting in the pivot members or hinges unlocking and rotating towards a closed configuration.