Closure Unit with Anchored Pour Spout and Removable Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closure systems do not efficiently allow for the anchoring of a pour spout to the container neck while enabling easy pouring without separating the pour spout from the container, often leading to leakage or the need to tip the container excessively.
Innovation Solution
A preassembled closure unit comprising a pour spout coupled to a closure cap, which is anchored to the container neck using anti-rotation lugs and threads, allowing the cap to be removed for pouring without detaching the pour spout, and featuring a weir to regulate fluid discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the pour spout is integrated with the closure cap, then the closure system is simple, but the pour spout cannot remain anchored to the container during pouring
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into separate functional components: the closure cap for sealing and the pour spout for dispensing. The pour spout is anchored to the container neck finish with its own threaded engagement, while the closure cap threads onto the pour spout. This segmentation allows the pour spout to remain fixed during pouring while the cap can be independently removed or replaced.
2Ease of operation
If the pour spout is separated from the closure cap, then the pour spout can be anchored independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
While the pour spout and closure cap are structurally separate, they are functionally merged through threaded engagement. The closure cap threads onto the pour spout, creating a unified closure assembly that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This merging maintains operational simplicity while preserving the independent anchoring capability of the pour spout.
3Strength
If the closure cap is tightly threaded to the pour spout, then the assembly is secure, but the cap cannot be easily removed for pouring
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded connection between the closure cap and pour spout uses standard thread parameters (pitch, diameter, engagement length) that provide sufficient holding strength for normal handling while allowing easy manual removal. The thread design balances friction and engagement to ensure the cap remains secure during transport but can be readily unscrewed for pouring operations.
4Reliability
If the pour spout is anchored to the container, then leakage is prevented, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pour spout is pre-threaded with external threads that engage with internally threaded features in the container neck finish. This preliminary threading allows the pour spout to be anchored directly during the filling or closure process without requiring separate anchoring steps, seals, or complex installation procedures. The threaded engagement provides immediate leak prevention upon installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A package includes a pour spout and a closure cap. The pour spout is adapted to fit into a neck finish associated with a container.