Closure Cap Assembly With Detachable Connecting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure cap arrangements for dispensing openings restrict the use of metering pump devices due to the requirement for a small excess in the inner diameter of the inner cap compared to the outer diameter of the collar, limiting the versatility and compatibility with different device sizes.
Innovation Solution
A closure cap arrangement with a detachable connecting element that is independent of the inner cap, allowing for a larger inner diameter selection and enabling a combination of materials for the connecting element, outer cap, and collar, which can form both mechanical and non-positive connections, optimizing material usage and recycling potential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the inner diameter of the inner cap is designed with a slight excess over the outer diameter of the collar to ensure locking effect, then the locking reliability is improved, but the adaptability to different dosing pump device sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the connection function from the inner cap by introducing an independent connecting element. The inner cap is divided into a cap body and a separate connecting element that attaches to the collar, allowing the inner cap's inner diameter to be optimized for comfort and the connecting element to provide reliable locking independent of dimensional constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection function is extracted from the inner cap structure and implemented through a separate connecting element that can be attached to or integrated with the inner cap. This extraction allows the inner cap to be designed solely for user comfort and the connecting element to handle the locking function with appropriate dimensional tolerances.
2Ease of manufacture
If the connecting element is made of a material different from the outer cap and inner cap, then the ease of manufacture and material optimization are improved, but the homogeneity of the cap assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed with local quality differentiation - it can be made from a different material optimized for its specific function (connection and locking) while the outer cap and inner cap maintain their material composition for their respective functions. This local quality approach allows material optimization without compromising overall assembly functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention embraces composite material construction by allowing the connecting element to be made from a different material than the outer cap and inner cap. This enables the use of materials with specific properties (e.g., elasticity, strength, corrosion resistance) tailored to the connection function, creating a multi-material composite assembly that optimizes performance.
3Reliability
If the connection between connecting element and collar is designed as a mechanical connection, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the ease of separation for recycling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element incorporates dynamic characteristics through elastic or flexible materials that enable reversible mechanical connections. The elastic properties allow the connection to be securely formed during assembly while enabling easy separation when needed for recycling, transforming a static rigid connection into a dynamic reversible one.
Solution Approach 2:
The design facilitates discarding and recovering by enabling easy separation of the connecting element from the collar through elastic deformation or simple mechanical disengagement. This allows the collar to be recovered and reused while the connecting element can be easily removed and discarded or recycled separately.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a closure cap arrangement (12) for placement on a dispensing opening (11) of a vessel (10), wherein the closure cap arrangement (12) has a multi-part structure comprising a plug-in cap (13) and a collar (14) designed as a sleeve for placement on the dispensing opening (11), wherein the plug-in cap (13) has an inner cap (19) received in a outer cap (18), which is connected to the outer cap (18) via a connecting element, wherein the connecting element serves to form a detachable connection with the collar (14) independently of the inner cap (19).