One-Step Clamshell Container Seal Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Clam-shell type containers require multiple steps to form a leak-proof seal, making them inconvenient for users and increasing the likelihood of improper sealing, which can lead to leakage.

Innovation Solution

A one-piece thermoformed container with a tray and cover connected by a hinge, featuring polygonal and trapezoidal seal structures that cooperate to form a liquid-tight seal upon compression, allowing for one-step closure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple snap-fit structures are used around the periphery of the cover and tray, then a leak-proof seal is formed, but the closing process becomes multi-step and inconvenient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleak-proof sealVSAvoidclosing process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate snap-fit structures into a single integrated closing action. The cover is designed with a single continuous seal structure that engages with the tray periphery in one motion, eliminating the need for multiple sequential snap-fit steps while maintaining the leak-proof seal around the entire periphery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The seal structure is segmented into multiple engagement points along the periphery, but these segments are activated simultaneously through a single closing motion. The continuous seal is divided into discrete snap-fit locations that all engage at once when the cover is closed, rather than requiring sequential engagement of each side.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If multiple closing steps are required, then a leak-proof seal can be formed, but the likelihood of improper sealing increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleak-proof sealVSAvoidseal formation accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges all seal formation actions into a single closing step, eliminating the cumulative error potential of multiple sequential steps. The single continuous closing motion ensures all peripheral seal points are engaged simultaneously and uniformly, reducing the risk of missing or improperly forming any individual seal location.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If non-expanded thermoplastic material is used, then leak-proof seal can be formed, but the insulating characteristics are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleak-proof sealVSAvoidinsulating characteristics

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different material properties to different functional regions. The cover and tray use non-expanded thermoplastic material optimized for seal formation, while additional insulating layers or structures can be added specifically in thermal protection zones without compromising the seal-forming capability of the primary container material.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7597206B2Container with one-step closing

Publication Date: 2009.10.06 DART CONTAINER CORP

AI summary

A clam-shell container comprising a cover hingedly connected to a tray, with both the cover and tray having cooperating structures that form a leak-proof seal when the clam-shell container is closed. The container and cooperating structures are formed such that the user can effect the formation of the leak-proof seal in a single step. The creation of the leak-proof seal preferably corresponds to the closing of the clam-shell container.