Child-Resistant Flip-Top Closure with Automatic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard flip-top closures for containers lack child-resistant features, allowing easy access by children to the contents within.
Innovation Solution
A child-resistant flip-top closure system that incorporates an automatic locking element requiring a specific rotation to transition from a disabled to an enabled position, featuring a closure body with a cylindrical post and undercut snap features, and a flip-top cap with a cantilevered tab and button mechanism to prevent accidental opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard flip-top closure is used, then the device is simple and easy to manufacture, but it lacks child-resistant properties allowing easy access by children
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a standard flip-top closure mechanism with a child-resistant locking system into a single integrated device. The locking element is incorporated within the closure body, and the cantilevered tab mechanism is integrated into the flip-top structure, allowing both functions to work together without requiring separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The closure is divided into functional segments: a closure body with locking element, a flip-top cap with cantilevered tab, and a hinge connecting them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent child access, then child-resistant properties are improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to required rotation and unlocking actions
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element automatically engages when the flip-top is closed, requiring no action from the user. The cantilevered tab automatically returns to its blocking position after rotation, providing self-latching functionality without requiring separate locking actions
Solution Approach 2:
The cantilevered tab is designed to be flexible and spring-loaded, allowing it to dynamically move between blocking and non-blocking positions based on the rotation state of the flip-top, enabling easy transition between locked and unlocked states
3Reliability
If a cantilevered tab with button mechanism is added, then accidental opening is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cantilevered tab is made from a flexible material that can bend and return to its original position, eliminating the need for complex mechanical springs or hinges while providing the necessary elastic blocking action to prevent accidental opening
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
Effectively prevents small children from opening the container by requiring a deliberate action to unlock and rotate the cap, ensuring the contents remain secure until intentionally accessed.
Implementation Method 1
The hinged area between body and cap sections may be of a thin web style, which allows the upper portion to hinge-over and be closed on the lower portion
Implementation Method 2
the cantilevered tab is configured to be flexed inwardly to dispose the locking edge within the outer wall of the body member and out of abutment with the vertical edge
Data Source
AI summary
A child resistant flip top closure system is provided that combines a flip top closure for a container with a child resistant locking mechanism system, which uses an automatic locking element that is depressed to enable a simultaneous rotation of a locking member to transition the flip top from a locked position preventing opening the flip top to dispense any substance in the container to an unlocked position, in which the flip top can be opened to enable dispensing of a substance in the container.