Capsule Closure Device Ventilation Hole Pressure Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing capsule closure devices require high separation forces, leading to capsule jumps and potential damage due to rapid pressure changes and high closure forces, which compromise operational reliability.

Innovation Solution

A capsule closure device with a capsule upper portion receiving member featuring ventilation holes for pressure compensation, reducing separation forces by allowing air to flow into the inner space during opening and escaping during closure, and a support shoulder to guide the capsule upper portion, minimizing impact and excess pressure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If high separation forces are applied to separate the capsule lower portion from the capsule upper portion, then the capsule can be opened, but the capsule lower portion may jump or strike the receiving member causing damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapsule opening reliabilityVSAvoidcapsule jump and damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A ventilation hole is introduced as an intermediary element between the capsule interior and exterior. This hole allows air to flow into the capsule interior during separation, compensating for pressure differences and preventing the capsule lower portion from being expelled by reverse pressure pulses, thereby eliminating capsule jump while maintaining reliable opening

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If high closure forces are applied to close the capsule, then the capsule can be sealed, but the capsule base may be pressed in or break

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapsule closing reliabilityVSAvoidcapsule base integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The ventilation hole serves as a pressure equalization pathway during closure. As the capsule lower portion is pressed into the capsule upper portion, air can escape through the ventilation hole, preventing excessive pressure buildup that would otherwise cause the capsule base to be pressed in or break, while ensuring reliable capsule sealing

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 reduces separation forces, prevents capsule jumps and damage, and ensures reliable operation by maintaining airtightness and controlling pressure during both opening and closing processes, enhancing the overall reliability of the device.

Implementation Method 1

Through the ventilation hole, when the capsule is opened, sufficient air can flow into the inner space between the capsule upper portion and capsule lower portion so that a pressure compensation is ensured

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure compensation: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

Such separation forces are formed via a reduced pressure acting on the capsule lower portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReduced pressure: Vacuum

Data Source

PatentUS11857503B2Capsule closure device for closing two-piece capsules
Publication Date: 2024.01.02 HARRO HOFLIGER VERPACKUNGSMASCHEN
  • US11857503B2 patent drawing
  • US11857503B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A capsule closure device is for closing two-piece capsules each having a capsule upper portion and a capsule lower portion. The capsule closure device includes a capsule upper portion receiving member and a capsule lower portion receiving member. The capsule upper portion receiving member has a receiving hole and an introduction hole which is arranged coaxially relative to the receiving hole. The capsule upper portion receiving member has at the inner side thereof between the receiving hole and the introduction hole a support shoulder for supporting the capsule upper portion. The capsule upper portion receiving member has at the inner side thereof at the introduction hole at least one ventilation hole.