Gable-Topped Carton Closure with Male Stud and Female Socket
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Gable top cartons are difficult to open without damaging the spout, leading to spillage and spoilage, and once opened, they do not seal tightly, causing contents to spoil or absorb odors, and are prone to spills if knocked over.
Innovation Solution
A gable top carton with a closure device featuring a male stud and female socket that removably couple to form a secure pour spout, preventing leakage and contamination, and allowing the carton to be reclosed without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the gable top folds are manipulated to open the carton, then the carton can be opened for dispensing, but the spout folds are often ripped or damaged resulting in spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into separate components: a closure member with a closure body and a closure element that can be independently positioned. The closure element includes a stem that engages with the closure body, allowing the spout to be segmented into a closed portion and an open portion for controlled dispensing without damaging the folds
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the spout folds. Instead of directly manipulating the fragile folds, the user interacts with the closure member which mediates the opening action, distributing force appropriately to open the carton while preserving spout integrity
2Ease of operation
If the gable top is folded back for closure, then the carton can be sealed, but the closure is not tightly sealed allowing contents to spoil or absorb odors
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device provides localized sealing at the spout opening rather than requiring the entire gable top to be sealed. The closure member creates a tight seal at the critical dispensing area, ensuring contents remain protected from spoilage and odors while maintaining ease of reclosure through the simple engagement of the closure element with the closure body
3Reliability
If the carton is accidentally knocked over, then the contents are spilled over other items, but a secure closure would prevent this
Solution Approach 1:
The closure function is extracted from the gable top structure itself and placed into a separate, dedicated closure device. This closure member with its engagement mechanism can be independently attached to secure the spout, providing spill prevention through a focused sealing action rather than requiring the entire carton structure to be complex
Data Source
AI summary
A gable topped food carton is provided having a closure device. The carton has a pour spout with a pair of folded ridge portions. The carton includes a male stud attached to a first of the folded ridge portions and a female socket attached to a second of the folded ridge portions. The male stud is constructed to couple with the female socket to close the pour spout.