Packaging Container Deformable Flange Release Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Clamshell packaging containers face challenges in providing a secure closure while maintaining ease of one-hand opening and efficient storage and display solutions.

Innovation Solution

The packaging container design features a base section with a chamber defined by a peripheral wall, a pivotally attached cover section with inwardly protruding sections and apertures, and a deformable flange for easy opening, along with additional features like a dividing plate and hanger openings for versatile use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a secure closure mechanism is implemented, then reliability of closure is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure securityVSAvoidopening ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The flange is designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically change shape during the opening process. When pressure is applied to the flange, it deforms to release the engagement between the cover section and base section, enabling easy one-hand opening while maintaining secure closure when not actuated

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The physical state of the flange changes from a rigid engaged state during closure to a deformable state during opening. By changing the mechanical properties of the flange based on operational requirements, the system achieves both secure closure and easy opening without complex mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If a complex closure mechanism is used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclosure securityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure mechanism is self-actuating through the deformable flange that responds to user input by automatically engaging or disengaging the cover section. The system serves itself by using the flange's deformability to both secure and release the closure without requiring separate locking or unlocking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

By changing the physical state of the flange from rigid to deformable, the system achieves reliable closure and easy opening functions without adding complex mechanical components. The single flange element performs multiple functions through state changes rather than through complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If a deformable flange is added for easy opening, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening easeVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The deformable flange serves multiple functions: it provides easy opening by deforming to release engagement, maintains secure closure when rigid, and can be integrated with stacking features. This multi-functional design avoids the need for separate mechanisms for each function, reducing overall complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If stacking features are added, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestacking capabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stacking feature is merged with the existing flange structure rather than being a separate component. The flange's deformability and geometric features serve dual purposes: enabling easy opening and providing stacking alignment, thus reducing overall structural complexity while improving adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 design ensures secure closure and easy one-hand opening, allows for stable stacking, and facilitates display and storage through hanger openings, enhancing user convenience and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

A deformable flange facilitates easy opening by deforming to release an engagement between the cover section and the base section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

The packaging container may include a hinge connecting the cover section to the base section, thereby allowing the packaging container to open and close

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge mechanism: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3453633B1Packaging container with closure and release mechanism
Publication Date: 2020.08.05 BAKER JAY
  • EP3453633B1 patent drawingFigure 1A
  • EP3453633B1 patent drawingFigure 1B~1C
  • EP3453633B1 patent drawingFigure 1D~1F

AI summary

A packaging container having a closure and release mechanism is provided having a base section and a cover section, with the cover section adapted to cover the base section when in a closed state. The closure and release mechanism includes at least one first aperture formed within an inner wall segment of the base section and at least one second aperture formed within an outer wall segment of the base section, which is aligned with the at least one first aperture. At least one projection extending inwardly from a side wall portion of the cover section is also provided for engaging the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture of the base section. Thus, the closure and release mechanism retains the cover section over the base section and secures the packaging container in a closed position. The at least one projection is released from the at least one first aperture and the at least one second aperture by depressing a deformable flange, thereby opening the packaging container.