Composite Closure Bead and PVC-Free Gasket for Seal Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite closures face challenges in replacing gasket materials due to considerations such as toxicity, long-term sealing properties, compatibility with manufacturing equipment, and thermal cycling, which complicates the selection of suitable materials for different food and beverage applications.
Innovation Solution
A composite closure design featuring a plastic shell with inwardly extending circumferential beads that provide a controlled radial force for proper sealing and anti-backoff features, using non-deformable flat surfaces in contact with a metal or plastic end panel, and employing PVC-free gasket materials like rubbery block copolymers and thermoplastic elastomers for improved sealing and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional gasket materials are used in composite closures, then sealing properties are maintained, but toxicity concerns and difficulty in replacement arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameters of the gasket from traditional materials to PVC-free alternatives such as rubbery block copolymers and thermoplastic elastomers. This parameter change maintains sealing functionality while eliminating toxic concerns associated with traditional gasket materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction by combining multiple materials in the closure system - specifically using PVC-free gasket materials in conjunction with metal or plastic end panels and plastic shells. This composite approach allows optimization of each component for its specific function while avoiding the use of problematic materials.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If gasket material is replaced with alternative materials, then toxicity concerns are addressed, but manufacturing complexity and equipment compatibility issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the closure system with universal compatibility in mind, creating a gasket and closure structure that can be manufactured using existing equipment while accommodating alternative materials. The bead geometry and gasket placement are designed to work with standard manufacturing processes, reducing the need for specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If gasket material is replaced, then new material properties are achieved, but constraints on gasket shape modification arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the closure system into distinct components - the gasket as a separate element positioned within a channel, the bead as a structural feature, and the end panel as a functional component. This segmentation allows the gasket to be optimized for its sealing function with specific shape requirements, while other components handle structural and mechanical functions.
4Reliability
If thermal cycling is applied during food processing, then food safety is ensured, but many gasket materials cannot withstand the thermal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selects gasket materials with specific thermal properties that allow them to withstand thermal cycling conditions. By changing the material parameters to use heat-resistant PVC-free alternatives like certain thermoplastic elastomers and rubbery block copolymers, the system achieves both food safety through thermal processing and material durability.
5Reliability
If friction force between gasket and neck finish is increased, then sealing is improved, but opening torque is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the sealing function in the gasket material at the sealing interface, while the bead provides a separate mechanical retention function. The gasket is positioned to create sealing friction locally at the container opening, while the bead geometry is designed to provide controlled resistance during opening without requiring excessive overall friction between the gasket and neck finish.
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 a perceptible resistance during closure opening, prevents backoff, and maintains sealing integrity across various processing conditions, addressing the complexities of gasket material selection and ensuring compatibility with existing manufacturing equipment.
Implementation Method 1
The bead or bead segments are sized so that the flat vertical contact surface thereof imparts a controlled radial force that provides a perceptible resistance upon rotation of the closure from its fully applied state
Implementation Method 2
the friction force generated between the gasket and the neck finish of an associated container which affects the opening torque
Data Source
AI summary
A composite closure which includes an improved sealing gasket material and shape. The Closure includes an end panel that is received in a circular plastic fitment having a central opening therein defined by an inwardly extending flange which over-lies in an outer periphery of the end panel and an integral skirt downwardly depending from the flange. The fitment includes an inwardly extending circumferential bead or bead segments which include a substantially non-deformable flat vertical surfaces that are substantially parallel to the axis of the closure and axially positioned to contact the radial outer-most edge of the end panel when the closure is fully applied to a container. The sealing gasket has the shape of an annulus with a particular cross-section and formed from a PVC free material.