Child Resistant Container Dual-Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child-resistant containers are not sufficiently secure, as they can be easily opened by children, posing a health threat from hazardous medicines and articles.
Innovation Solution
A child-resistant container design featuring a 'clam-shell' form with a primary lock actuated by deflectable side walls and a secondary lock requiring two hands to open, incorporating internal reinforcement ribs and a dual-latch mechanism to prevent accidental opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then the container is easy to open, but it can be easily opened by children posing a health threat
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two separate latches (first latch and second latch) that must both be engaged for the container to be secure. Each latch is controlled by a separate deflectable sidewall, creating a segmented locking system that increases security while maintaining manageable operation through the pocket mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The pocket structure acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's finger and the latch system. By deflecting the sidewall within the pocket, the user indirectly actuates the latch release, providing both child resistance and ease of operation for adults who can apply sufficient force
2Reliability
If a single lock mechanism is used, then the container structure is simple, but it can be opened by children with single-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into two independent latches (first latch member with first latch arm, and second latch member with second latch arm) that engage with corresponding barbs on opposite sides. This segmentation prevents children from opening the container with one hand, as both latches must be simultaneously actuated through the pocket mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
Both latch mechanisms are integrated into a single unitary container structure made from one piece of molded material. The deflectable sidewalls, pockets, and latch members are all formed as integrated components, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving enhanced security through the combined action of dual latches
3Ease of operation
If the container allows easy opening, then adults can access medicines quickly, but children can also open it posing a health threat
Solution Approach 1:
The pocket structure serves as an intermediary that translates simple finger deflection into latch release. Adults can easily open the container by inserting a finger into the pocket and deflecting the sidewall, which simultaneously releases both latches. The pocket mechanism mediates between simple user input and the complex dual-latch release requirement
Solution Approach 2:
The deflectable sidewalls are positioned and dimensioned to be easily deflectable by adult fingers, allowing the container to be opened through a simple self-service action. The geometry of the pockets and sidewalls is designed to accommodate natural finger insertion and deflection movements, making the opening process intuitive and easy for adults
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 container effectively prevents unauthorized access by children, ensuring secure storage of hazardous items while maintaining accessibility for adults through a two-handed operation mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
each pocket has a side wall at least a portion of which, in relation to the pocket, is outwardly resiliently deflectable
Data Source
Figure 1~3
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Figure 6~8
AI summary
A child resistant container (10) has a container cavity (20) for the receipt of one or more items to be stored therein. The container cavity (20) is defined by a pair of lids (14, 16) which are hingedly connected to one another. Primary lock means (50) includes a first lock assembly on one lid (14, 16) which engages with a second lock assembly on the other lid (14, 16). A primary lock actuation includes an externally open topped pocket (60) formed in the body of said one lid (14, 16). The pocket (60) has a pocket side wall (62) which is resiliently deflectable from a lock position to an unlock position. The pocket (60) is shaped and sized to permit a finger of an operative to enter the pocket (60) to effect deflection of the pocket side wall (62) to its unlock position.