Container having universally usable, hidden handle fastening for use with domestic appliances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching plastic handles to glass or all-plastic containers are cumbersome, limiting design freedom and reliability, and often compromise the visual appeal of higher-value products like glass jars.
Innovation Solution
A compact attachment system using a hook-shaped fastening element integrated with the container's sidewall, allowing for a secure and flexible attachment of plastic handles to containers of different materials, with optional dual fastening points for enhanced stability and reduced visible attachment areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal rings or plastic panels are used to attach handles to glass containers, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the visual appearance is worsened due to visible attachment areas
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment function is extracted from visible external components (metal rings, plastic panels) and integrated directly into the container wall structure through injection-molded fastening elements. This removes the need for separate visible attachment hardware while maintaining secure handle attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening elements are merged with the container wall during the injection molding process, creating an integrated structure where the attachment mechanism becomes part of the container itself rather than a separate component. This eliminates visible attachment areas while ensuring reliable handle attachment.
2Reliability
If internal glass handles are used for stability and anchoring, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the handle geometry becomes overly large due to safety element integration
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening elements extend in multiple directions from the container wall - outwardly perpendicular to the wall and also parallel to the wall toward the opening. This three-dimensional configuration provides stable anchoring in multiple dimensions while keeping the handle geometry compact and aesthetically pleasing.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system is segmented into distinct functional zones: the container wall integration zone, the outward-extending anchoring zone, and the parallel-extending safety element zone. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring excessive overall size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If glued connections are used for handle attachment, then the design freedom is improved, but the long-term reliability is worsened due to bond degradation over time
Solution Approach 1:
The chemical bonding mechanism (glue) is replaced with a mechanical interlocking system where fastening elements with hooks and engagement features provide physical attachment. This mechanical system maintains design freedom while ensuring reliable long-term connection through structural interlocking rather than chemical adhesion.
4Ease of operation
If plastic handles are attached to glass containers using conventional methods, then the attachment functionality is achieved, but consistent design across different container materials cannot be realized
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening elements are designed as universal components that can be integrated into containers made of different materials (glass, plastic) using the same injection molding process. This universal design approach allows consistent handle attachment functionality and aesthetic appearance across different container material types.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention relates to a container for domestic appliances, the container (10) having a handle (30), a circumferential outer side wall and at least one opening on the upper side, and the container having at least one fastening element (12) integral with the side wall, characterised in that the fastening element (12) is a hook and extends in a first direction outwards from the side wall and extends in a second direction substantially parallel to the side wall, the handle (3) being interlockingly connected to the container via the at least one fastening element (12).