Child-Resistant Closure System with Asymmetric Interlocking Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional resealable zipper closures are not suitable for hazardous substances as they are easily opened, and existing child-proof systems are overly complex and expensive to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A resealable container with a child-resistant closure system featuring interlocking members that require proper rotation to disengage, preventing unauthorized access while allowing authorized access through a specific opening mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional zipper closures are used, then ease of operation is improved, but child safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system employs asymmetric interlocking members where the first lateral interlocking member has a specific geometry that only engages with the second lateral interlocking member in one orientation. This asymmetry prevents children from opening the container by applying force in incorrect directions, while still allowing authorized users to open it by applying force in the correct direction at the correct location.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system is divided into distinct functional segments: extension strips attached to the container walls, lateral interlocking members that provide the child-resistant mechanism, and flaps that guide user interaction. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the interlocking members provide safety while the flaps provide user guidance - resolving the contradiction between safety and ease of operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing child-proof zipper systems are implemented, then child safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the child-resistant locking mechanism and the sealing function into a single integrated closure system. The lateral interlocking members serve dual purposes: they provide the child-resistant feature through their asymmetric geometry and simultaneously seal the container opening when engaged. This merging eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms and complex multi-component systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining child safety.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If existing child-proof zipper systems are implemented, then child safety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The child-resistant feature is implemented locally at the interlocking members rather than requiring complex mechanisms throughout the entire closure system. The asymmetric geometry is applied only to the critical engagement points of the lateral interlocking members, allowing the rest of the closure system to use simpler, more cost-effective components and materials. This localized application of complexity significantly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining child safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A child-resistant resealable container comprising a closure strip assembly having first and second lateral interlocking members. The first lateral interlocking member is attached to a first extension strip, and the second lateral interlocking member is attached to a second extension strip. The first and second extension strips are attached to the interior surfaces of the respective first and second walls below the top edge of the first and second walls such that a portion of the first and second walls extends to define first and second flaps. The first and second lateral interlocking members are configured to become disengaged from each other when the first flap and the second flap are pulled apart from each other as the first flap is gripped while the first extension strip is not gripped and the second flap is gripped while the second extension strip is not gripped.