Dispensing Closure Lid Trap Prevents Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing closures for flowable products often allow residual product to flow into the lid and down the walls, leading to unwanted leakage onto the closure and container, especially with sticky or oily products.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing closure featuring a trough or trap mechanism with a projecting lip and gaps to collect and redirect product back into the container, preventing leakage and allowing for controlled release when the lid is closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is opened to dispense product, then product can be accessed, but residual product flows down the wall and leaks onto the exterior of the closure and container
Solution Approach 1:
A trap structure acts as an intermediary component between the lid interior and the exterior surface. This trap captures residual product that flows down the lid wall and holds it temporarily, preventing direct leakage onto the exterior. The trap serves as a mediator that intercepts the harmful flow path while allowing legitimate product dispensing to occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful effect of product flowing down the lid wall into a beneficial outcome by designing a trap that captures this residual product. Instead of allowing uncontrolled leakage, the trap collects the product and provides a controlled release mechanism, transforming what was previously waste or contamination into recoverable product that can be returned to the container.
2Productivity
If the lid is opened partially or fully, then product can be dispensed, but product may flow out of the lid onto the closure exterior
Solution Approach 1:
The trap structure serves as an intermediary that captures product which would otherwise be lost. By positioning the trap at the critical flow path where product exits the lid, it intercepts residual product and prevents its loss to the exterior environment, while maintaining efficient dispensing through the spout.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a recover mechanism for product that would normally be discarded or lost. The trap collects residual product that flows down the lid wall, and through the gap provision, allows this recovered product to flow back into the container, thereby preventing substance loss and improving overall product efficiency.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a trap is added to capture product, then product leakage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trap structure is merged with the existing lid wall formation rather than being a separate, additional component. By integrating the trap into the lid's existing geometry and using the same material continuity, the design prevents leakage without significantly increasing overall device complexity. The trap becomes part of the lid structure itself rather than an add-on element.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid structure is segmented into functional zones: the main lid body for covering, the spout for dispensing, and the trap for capturing residual product. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently. The trap is positioned as a distinct but integrated element that addresses leakage without complicating the overall simple design philosophy of the closure.
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
Effectively prevents product from leaking onto the closure and container, ensuring efficient return of residual product into the container, reducing waste and maintaining cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
product can flow into the trough and then is directed along it to the opening for release
Data Source
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AI summary
A dispensing closure (10) for a flowable product is provided. The closure (10) includes a lid (20) with a wall (80) the interior of which may collect product in use. The lid has a trap (85) for catching collected product. The product subsequently flows down the wall and can be released.