Cosmetic Refill Locking via Rotational Tab and Undercut Cavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic packaging solutions face challenges in securely locking refill containers, particularly in glass pots, due to manufacturing constraints that limit the use of sharp edges and undercuts, leading to unreliable locking systems and complex manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A packaging assembly with a glass or plastic refill container featuring a tab and cavity design that allows for translational and rotational locking, using a tab inserted into a non-through cavity with a bearing surface and retaining relief, ensuring secure attachment without complex manufacturing steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If locking means are integrated into glass pots using rounded edges, then manufacturing is simplified, but locking reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D rounded edge locking to 3D undercut cavity locking. The undercut cavity extends below the surface of the glass pot, creating a dimensional advantage that allows the refill flange to be captured securely without requiring sharp edges or complex molding operations on the glass surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the inherent curvature and rounding of glass pot edges (which are unavoidable due to manufacturing) and designs the undercut cavity to work with these rounded features rather than against them. The cavity geometry is designed to accommodate the rounded edge profile while still providing effective mechanical interlocking.
2Reliability
If undercut shapes are added to plastic refills for secure locking, then locking reliability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the locking function into two separate components: the undercut cavity in the glass pot and the corresponding flange feature on the plastic refill. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes, avoiding the need for complex multi-step molding or assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange on the refill acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the plastic container and the glass pot locking mechanism. This simple flange structure interfaces with the undercut cavity to provide secure locking without requiring complex features on either the plastic or glass components.
3Reliability
If multiple locking features are added to prevent unwanted extraction, then locking reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated undercut cavity feature. The cavity simultaneously provides lateral retention, axial positioning, and rotational prevention through its geometric design, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The undercut cavity is designed as a universal locking feature that performs multiple functions: it secures the refill laterally, positions it axially, prevents rotation, and allows for easy release. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall structure while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a container for packaging a cosmetic product, comprising a refill vessel (1) arranged in a covering pot (2) comprising a cavity (24) formed so as not to pass right through the thickness of the neck (22), the cavity opening onto the opening of the pot and having an upper abutment edge (2410) extending in a first circumferential direction (Dlock). The vessel (1) comprises a grippable tab (13) extending in parallel with the side wall (11), the contour of the tab having a bearing surface extending in said first circumferential direction (Dlock). The tab can be accommodated and slid in the cavity (24) between a locked position and a released position by rotating the vessel. In the locked position, said upper abutment edge is flush with the bearing surface (130), preventing movement of the tab in an axial extraction direction (Dextract), and, in the released position, said bearing surface is opposite the opening of the cavity.