Closure assembly, system and method of use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers for dispensing sheets of material, such as wipes, often deform the lid assembly, leading to loose closure mechanisms and ineffective material dispensing, with orifice size issues causing tears or clumping, and the inability to refill.
Innovation Solution
A closure assembly with a flexible membrane and tab member that allows for controlled dispensing of articles through a channel groove, preventing deformation and optimizing orifice size for smooth material extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional lid assembly is used for dispensing sheets of material, then the container can be sealed, but the lid assembly deforms during material removal causing the closure mechanism to become loose and ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The lid assembly is divided into separate functional components: a rigid frame that maintains structural integrity, a flexible membrane that seals the dispensing opening, and a hinged lid portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without deforming the overall structure, resolving the contradiction between maintaining closure effectiveness and preventing lid deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible membrane is introduced as the sealing element within the lid assembly. This thin film can deform to accommodate material dispensing while maintaining the seal, preventing the lid assembly from becoming loose or ineffective. The flexible membrane absorbs the deformation stresses that would otherwise compromise the closure mechanism.
2Productivity
If the orifice size is made small to control dispensing, then material can be dispensed individually, but individual sheets of material tear when pulled out through the orifice
Solution Approach 1:
The lid assembly incorporates movable components including a hinged lid and a flexible membrane that can dynamically adjust during material dispensing. The hinge allows the lid to open sufficiently for material removal while the flexible membrane adapts to the passing material, enabling controlled dispensing without tearing the sheets.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing opening parameters are optimized through the combination of the hinged lid mechanism and flexible membrane. The hinge provides a controlled opening angle and the flexible membrane adjusts its shape during material passage, creating optimal conditions for dispensing individual sheets without tearing while maintaining material integrity.
3Ease of operation
If the orifice size is made large to facilitate material removal, then sheets can be pulled out easily, but the sheets clump or rope when pulled out through the orifice
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system segments the material flow control function between the hinged lid (which controls the opening) and the flexible membrane (which seals around the material). This segmentation allows the opening to be sufficiently large for easy material removal while the membrane maintains individual sheet separation, preventing clumping or roping.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional closure mechanism is used, then the lid can be opened and closed, but the mechanism becomes loose and can entirely detach from the container
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is segmented into a permanent frame attached to the container and a hinged lid assembly. This segmentation allows the lid to be operable while the frame maintains secure attachment to the container, preventing detachment. The hinge connection provides flexibility for opening and closing while maintaining overall structural stability.
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 solution ensures secure closure, prevents material tearing or clumping, and allows for easy refilling of the container, enhancing the effectiveness and usability of the dispensing system.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible membrane housed within the opening of the lid rim, wherein the flexible membrane defines a zone configured to permit a plurality of articles to feed therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
A closure assembly (100) for a container (200) is provided. The closure assembly (100) includes a frame (105) configured to couple to a container (200); an interior lid hingedly coupled to the frame (105) along a first longitudinal side thereof and movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the lid (110) includes a lid rim that defines an opening, a flexible membrane (300) housed within the opening of the lid rim, wherein the flexible membrane (300) defines a zone configured to permit a plurality of articles to feed therethrough, and a tab member (120) fixedly coupled to the lid rim and extending above the membrane (300), wherein the tab member (120) defines a channel groove (125) configured to receive a leading article of the plurality of articles therein and separate the leading article from the plurality of articles. The assembly further includes a cover panel (150) hingedly coupled to the frame (105) along the first longitudinal side thereof and movable between an assembly closed position and an assembly open position.