Cream Jar Snap-Fit Connection for Component Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cream jars are difficult to recycle or reuse due to strong material connections between components, making them non-eco-friendly and hard to disassemble.
Innovation Solution
A cream jar design featuring a latching connection between the inner and outer jars, with an axial anti-rotation lock and a contour/counter-contour system that deviates from a circular shape, allowing for easy separation and replacement of components, enabling recyclability and reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If material-bonded connection (gluing or welding) is used between inner and outer jars, then stability and visual appeal are improved, but ease of separation and recyclability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between inner and outer jars is segmented into discrete snap-fit elements that can be individually engaged and disengaged, replacing permanent material bonds with reversible mechanical connections. This allows the assembly to be stable during use but easily separated when needed for recycling or reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent bond to a dynamic reversible connection. The snap-fit mechanism allows the cream jar to maintain stability during normal operation while enabling easy separation when required, adapting the connection state based on operational needs.
2Strength
If permanent material bonds are used between components, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability and reusability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent material bonds are replaced with segmented snap-fit connections that maintain structural stability during use but allow easy separation. This enables the outer jar to be reused by removing and replacing the inner jar, significantly improving adaptability and reusability while maintaining adequate structural strength.
3Shape
If different materials are used for lid, inner jar, and outer jar, then visual appeal and functional properties are improved, but ease of recycling deteriorates due to inability to separate components
Solution Approach 1:
The use of different materials for lid, inner jar, and outer jar is enabled by the snap-fit connection system that allows easy separation. Each component can be optimized for its specific function and aesthetic requirements while maintaining recyclability, as the reversible connection permits complete disassembly for separate material recycling.
4Ease of operation
If snap-fit connection is used between inner and outer jars, then ease of separation and recyclability are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection utilizes asymmetric geometry with protrusions and corresponding recesses that provide both easy separation and adequate manufacturing precision. The asymmetric design creates a clear engagement path that guides assembly while allowing for reasonable tolerances in mass production.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The invention relates to a cream jar (10) comprising an inner jar (14) with an inner container (19) for receiving a cream or similar viscous liquid, an outer jar (11) for receiving the inner jar and a lid device (13), wherein the lid device comprises a lid (12) with a thread and a mating thread arranged on the inner jar and/or on the outer jar, wherein the inner container of the inner jar can be closed by means of the lid device, wherein the inner jar is designed to be replaceable, wherein the inner jar and the outer jar form a detachable connection, wherein the connection is a snap-fit connection (25).