Resealable Cap Seal Adhesion Reduces Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing resealable container assemblies require high down force and on-torque to achieve an effective seal, especially in pressurized environments, and often necessitate additional seals between the cap and container.
Innovation Solution
A resealable container assembly featuring a metal cap with a continuous axial seal adhered to its inner surface, which deforms to conform to the container's inner diameter, allowing for pressure retention independent of on/off-torque, and a process of forming this seal using a tool to create a desired profile that reduces the required down force and on-torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a compressible disk type seal is inserted on the inner surface of the cap and compressed along an angular, circumferential surface of the container, then pressure retention is achieved, but high down force (113 to 181 kg) and on-torque are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical compression system (requiring high down force and torque) with a chemical bonding system. The seal is adhered to the cap using adhesive technology, eliminating the need for mechanical compression forces. The seal maintains its position and sealing function through chemical adhesion rather than mechanical pressure, thus resolving the contradiction between pressure retention and force requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of seal attachment from mechanical compression to chemical adhesion. By using adhesive bonding, the seal can maintain its sealing function without requiring high down force (113-181 kg) or on-torque. This parameter change transforms the sealing mechanism from force-dependent to adhesion-dependent, resolving the technical contradiction.
2Reliability
If a compressible disk type seal is compressed and smashed to form a roll on pilfer proof (ROPP) seal, then pressure retention is achieved, but high down force and on-torque are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical compression and smashing process (ROPP method requiring high on-torque) with an adhesive bonding process. The seal is attached to the cap through chemical adhesion rather than mechanical deformation, eliminating the need for high on-torque during application. This substitution resolves the contradiction between achieving reliable pressure retention and maintaining ease of operation with low on-torque.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent fundamentally changes the attachment parameter from mechanical compression (high on-torque) to chemical adhesion (low on-torque). The seal maintains its integrity and sealing capability through adhesive bonding rather than mechanical smashing, thus resolving the contradiction between pressure retention reliability and operational ease.
3Reliability
If thread position is adjusted for correct compression of the seal, then pressure retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical compression system that requires precise thread position alignment with an adhesive bonding system. The seal is attached to the cap through adhesive rather than mechanical compression, eliminating the need for precise thread position control. This substitution resolves the contradiction between achieving reliable pressure retention and reducing device complexity.
4Reliability
If additional seals are added between the cap and container, then pressure retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and the attachment function into a single integrated solution. The adhesive-bonded seal simultaneously provides both the sealing barrier and the mechanical attachment between cap and container, eliminating the need for separate additional seals. This merging resolves the contradiction between improving pressure retention and reducing device complexity.
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 significantly reduces the downward force and on-torque needed for sealing, provides effective pressure retention, and allows for easy manufacturing and use in various environments, including pressurized and thermal extremes.
Implementation Method 1
The seal first region deforms in response to internal pressure in the container to urge the seal first region to conform radially outward along the curvilinear contour at a location inward of the innermost diameter of the container second end
Implementation Method 2
The seal is adhered to the inner surface of the end wall of the cap
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A seal and method of forming a seal for a resealable container includes a removable cap that is selectively received over a pour opening formed in a can body. A seal is adhered to the end wall of the cap and includes a continuous, first axial region extending outwardly from the inner surface of the cap. The seal first region is dimensioned for engagement with the opening in the container and sealing the container along an inner diameter thereof. Reduced on-torque/off-torque are required since the seal is formed on the inner diameter, and a down force is substantially reduced to assemble the cap to the container.