Convertible Child-Resistant Vial With Integrally Molded Cap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child-resistant vials require complex molding processes and multiple components, making them difficult to manufacture and handle as a single unit, and often require two-step processes to convert between child-resistant and non-child-resistant configurations.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece child-resistant vial with an integrally mounted cap and hinge, utilizing a single molding process, where the cap can be easily converted from a child-resistant to a non-child-resistant configuration by removing a locking element, allowing for simplified distribution and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional child-resistant vials use separate molds for container and cap with liner assembly, then child-resistant functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases and assembly requires two-step process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the container and cap into a single integrally molded piece, eliminating the need for separate molds and assembly steps. The cap portion is formed as one continuous piece with the container body through a single injection molding process, while still maintaining the child-resistant locking mechanism with locking tabs and groove features.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrally molded vial design serves multiple functions: it provides child-resistant closure through built-in locking features, eliminates the need for separate cap and container molds, and allows for easy conversion to non-child-resistant configuration by simply breaking the locking tabs, all within a single manufactured component.
2Ease of manufacture
If child-resistant vials use integrally molded cap and container, then manufacturing is simplified to single-step process, but conversion to non-child-resistant configuration becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the locking mechanism with discrete locking tabs that can be selectively removed or broken off after molding. This extraction of the locking feature from the integral structure allows the vial to be converted from child-resistant to non-child-resistant configuration by simply removing the locking tabs, while maintaining the benefits of integrally molded construction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If vial uses multiple separate components for child-resistant closure, then conversion between configurations is easier, but handling and distribution as single unit becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the container and cap into a single integrally molded piece that remains one continuous component throughout use. This unified structure allows for easy handling and distribution as a single unit, while the built-in locking tabs can be selectively removed to convert between child-resistant and non-child-resistant configurations as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
The convertible child-resistant vial includes a container having an aperture and a peripheral wall and being provided with a first connection element in the form of contiguous locking and freeing housings provided in a collar extending from the peripheral wall; and a cap hingedly mounted to the container integrally thereof and including a second connection element for cooperating with the first connection element to close the vial in a child safe-manner. The second connection element is in the form of a tooth which is easily removable to convert the child-resistant vial into a non-child-resistant vial. The vial can be molded in a one piece body. The integral mounting of the cap to the container allows easing the distribution and handling of the vial.