Buckling Clamshell Container for Automated Aliquot Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional packaging containers are not well-suited for automated re-opening and dispensing of particulate components, requiring manual dexterity or tools, and are not easily re-configurable for re-use, limiting their application in research and manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A partially flexible buckling clamshell container design with flexure channels and a hinge mechanism that allows for easy separation of the lid and container portions using a compressive force, enabling automated opening and re-closure, and integration of manufacturing processes like thermoforming for cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional packaging containers with flange portions and adhesives are used, then robust protection is provided, but manual dexterity or cutting tools are required to open and they cannot be re-opened by simple automated processes
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into a body portion and a lid portion that can be selectively separated. The lid portion includes a flange with an aperture that allows insertion of opening tools, enabling automated processes to access and separate the lid from the body without requiring manual dexterity or cutting tools.
Solution Approach 2:
An opening tool serves as an intermediary element that is inserted through the aperture in the flange to effect separation of the lid and body. This intermediary tool enables automated opening processes while maintaining the robust sealed structure during normal use.
2Reliability
If conventional packaging containers with constant interference fit are used, then secure sealing is achieved, but automated re-opening by application of compressive force is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The interference fit between the lid flange and body aperture is designed to be dynamic rather than constant. The aperture in the flange allows the insertion of opening tools that can break the interference fit seal, enabling the lid to be removed and reattached multiple times by automated processes applying compressive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The aperture is pre-formed in the flange to anticipate future opening operations. This preliminary structural feature allows automated opening tools to be inserted without requiring manual intervention or cutting, enabling reliable automated re-opening while maintaining sealing integrity during normal use.
3Ease of operation
If separate lid and container portions are used, then selective closure is achieved, but complex assembly and manufacturing are required
Solution Approach 1:
The lid portion is formed as a single integral piece that combines the lid body and flange structure. This merging of components simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate parts that need to be assembled, while still providing the selective closure capability through the interference fit between the integrated flange and aperture.
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
Facilitates quick and reliable capture, retention, and dispensing of particulate components, such as seed aliquots, through automated processes, while being easily re-configured and cost-effectively manufactured for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
the container portion, the lid, and the hinge portion may be substantially integrally formed such that the lid may remain connected to the container portion even as the lid is disengaged from closing engagement with the container portion
Data Source
AI summary
A package assembly for automated aliquot and/or dispersal processes is provided. Embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to: first and second portions which cooperate to contain the aliquot, wherein a pair of flexure channels are defined in opposing sides of at least one of the first or second portions, the flexure channels cooperating to define a flexure axis extending through the pair of flexure channels. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may allow at least one of first and second portions of the package assembly to flex about the flexure axis in response to a force exerted on the package assembly such that the first and second portions separate in response to the force.