Container Lid with Dual-Stage Protrusion Recess Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers with pre-housed reagents and sealed caps face contamination risks during sample introduction and subsequent tests due to easy cap removal, which can lead to external contamination.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a lid with specific protrusions and recesses that allow temporary easy insertion and full insertion, making it difficult to remove after the sample is provided, ensuring the reagent is protected before and the sample is contained after introduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cap is configured to be readily removed from the opening of the container, then the ease of operation for providing a sample is improved, but the reliability for preventing contamination of the outside is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with dynamic removal characteristics through two sets of protrusions and recesses that provide different levels of engagement. The first protrusion engages with the first recess for easy removal during sample provision, while the second protrusion engages with the second recess for secure locking during testing, allowing the lid to transition between easily removable and securely locked states
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement mechanism is segmented into two distinct stages: a first engagement level between the first protrusion and first recess for initial sealing and easy removal, and a second engagement level between the second protrusion and second recess for secure locking. This segmentation allows different operational requirements to be met at different stages of use
2Reliability
If the lid is securely sealed to prevent contamination, then the reliability for protecting reagent is improved, but the ease of operation for sample introduction is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The lid transitions from an easily removable state during sample introduction to a securely locked state during testing. The dual engagement mechanism allows the lid to be easily pulled off the first recess for sample access, then automatically engages the second recess to provide secure sealing during subsequent operations
3Ease of manufacture
If the lid structure is simplified for easy manufacturing, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the reliability for preventing leakage during agitation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The lid structure is segmented into functional zones with different engagement characteristics. The first protrusion and first recess provide for easy removal and initial sealing, while the second protrusion and second recess provide for secure locking during agitation. This segmentation allows each component to be relatively simple while collectively providing robust leakage prevention
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes a container main body including a housing part and an opening, and a lid configured to close the opening and including an insertion part configured to be inserted to the opening. The outer peripheral surface of the insertion part includes first and second protrusions and first and second recesses. The inner peripheral surface of the opening includes third and fourth protrusions and third and fourth recesses. When the insertion part is temporarily inserted to the opening, the third protrusion presses the first recess in a state where the first protrusion is housed in the third recess. When the insertion part is fully inserted to the opening, the third protrusion presses the second recess and the fourth protrusion presses the first recess in a state where the first protrusion is housed in the fourth recess and the second protrusion is housed in the third recess.