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-configured for selective dispensing of seed aliquots.
Innovation Solution
A partially flexible buckling clamshell container design with flexure channels that allow the container to elastically deform and separate upon application of an opening force, enabling easy automated opening and re-closure, using materials like polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene, and manufacturing processes such as thermoforming.
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 easily separated. The interference fit between flange portions is designed to allow clean separation without damaging the components, enabling automated opening processes while maintaining protection during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The container transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic openable state. The interference fit is engineered to provide strong sealing during transport but allow controlled separation when automated opening forces are applied, creating a dynamic system that adapts to different operational phases.
2Reliability
If conventional packaging containers with constant interference fit are used, then secure sealing is achieved, but they cannot be re-opened by simple automated processes
Solution Approach 1:
The interference fit is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to maintain reliable sealing under normal conditions but permit controlled separation when automated opening forces are applied. The fit strength varies with the applied load, enabling both secure sealing and automated re-opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical parameters of the interference fit are optimized to allow transition between sealed and open states. The dimensional tolerances and material properties are selected so that the interference fit provides adequate sealing force during transport but can be overcome by automated opening mechanisms.
3Reliability
If manual dexterity and cutting tools are required to open containers, then secure containment is maintained, but productivity and automation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The container is segmented into easily separable body and lid portions with standardized flange interfaces. This segmentation allows automated systems to quickly separate and dispense components without requiring manual intervention or specialized cutting tools, thereby increasing productivity while maintaining containment security during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual cutting and opening process is replaced with an automated mechanical separation system. The interference fit design allows automated grippers or pressing mechanisms to separate the lid from the body without requiring manual dexterity or cutting tools, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical systems.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional containers are designed for single-use, then manufacturing is simple, but they cannot be re-configured for selective dispensing of seed aliquots
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed as a segmented system with standardized body and lid portions that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows the same container components to be re-used for different seed aliquots by simply replacing the lid or re-sealing the body, providing re-configuration capability without complicating the manufacturing of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The container body and flange portions are designed with universal characteristics that allow them to work with multiple different lid configurations and seed aliquot types. The standardized interference fit interface enables the same body to be used for different applications by changing the lid or sealing configuration, providing multi-functionality while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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
Enables quick and efficient capture, retention, and selective dispensing of particulate components, facilitating automated processes while maintaining ease of use and economic manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
The container of the present invention may be selectively opened by automated processes by elastically deforming at a predetermined point to release one or more objects contained therein
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 flexure channel is defined in each of opposite 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 an opening force exerted on the package assembly such that the first and second portions separate in response to the opening force.