Carton Locking Feature Segmentation and Nesting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cartons with reclosable locking features do not adequately address the need for improved functionality and user experience in terms of ease of use and secure closure, particularly for holding and dispensing food products.
Innovation Solution
A carton design featuring a clamshell structure with a reclosable lid and engagement features, including male and female locking portions, that allows for secure closure and easy access, with specific folding mechanisms and relief portions to prevent buckling and enhance rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a reclosable locking mechanism is added to the carton, then the reliability of closure is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into separate male and female portions located at different corners of the carton. Each corner has its own locking tabs and slots that function independently, distributing the locking function across multiple discrete elements rather than using a single complex mechanism. This segmentation maintains reliability through redundancy while keeping individual components simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tabs are integrated within the flap structure itself, with the male locking portion formed as an extension of the flap and the female locking portion formed as a receptacle within the same material. This nesting eliminates the need for separate locking components, reducing device complexity while maintaining closure security.
2Ease of manufacture
If locking tabs and slots are integrated into the flap structure, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flap structure has different properties at different locations: the locking tabs and slots have localized geometric features designed for engagement, while the main body of the flap maintains its structural strength. The locking portions are designed with appropriate thickness and geometry at specific locations without compromising the overall flap integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The carton is constructed from layered paperboard material that provides both the necessary structural strength for the flap and the flexibility to form locking features. The composite structure of the paperboard allows integration of locking tabs and slots while maintaining adequate strength to support the closure function.
3Strength
If relief portions are added to prevent buckling, then the structural integrity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The relief portions are pre-formed as recesses in the flap structure before the carton is assembled and locked. These preliminary structural features are designed into the blank and prepared in advance to prevent buckling when the locking tabs engage, eliminating the need for additional components or post-assembly modifications.
Data Source
Figure 1~1B
Figure 2
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AI summary
In one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a carton for holding at least one article. The carton comprising a plurality of panels comprising a bottom panel, a front panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, at least one back panel, a top panel, a lid panel foldably connected to the top panel. At least one end flap is foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. A base comprises at least the bottom panel, and the front panel. A lid is pivotably attached to the base. The lid comprises the top panel and the lid panel and is movable between a closed position preventing access to the base and an open position allowing access to the base. Locking features are for releasably attaching the lid to the base in the closed position. The locking features comprises at least one male portion in the front panel and at least one female portion in the at least one end flap.