Detergent Container Precision Pinch Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Detergent products are sensitive to humidity, requiring containers that can effectively protect them from moisture while also being easy to operate for adult consumers. The container must also be environmentally friendly, mechanically robust, and suitable for multiple usage.
Innovation Solution
The container design incorporates a specific human gesture called 'precision pinch' to reliably open a robust locking mechanism. This is achieved through a configuration that allows for reciprocal feedback between the thumb and other fingers, enabling precise alignment of forces. The container features a top flap with a distal edge that provides a clearance sufficient for the lock to function properly, and is made from a paper-based material to minimize environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a robust locking mechanism is used to protect detergent from humidity, then protection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a lock element with locking and unlocking positions, an actuator element with biased and unlocked positions, and a cam element with cam surfaces. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation through the precision pinch gesture.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism incorporates feedback through the interaction of cam surfaces between the cam element and lock element. As the actuator moves, the cam surfaces provide tactile feedback and mechanical guidance, ensuring the lock transitions reliably between locked and unlocked states in response to the precision pinch gesture.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a paper-based material is used for environmental friendliness, then environmental impact is reduced, but mechanical robustness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container is constructed from paper-based materials that are engineered to provide both environmental friendliness and mechanical robustness. The patent specifies that the container includes a body and a lid made of paper-based materials with sufficient strength to protect the detergent product while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A consumer product (100) comprising a container (102) and a detergent product contained therein, the container comprising: a box (104) and a lid (106). A lock (108) maintains the lid (106) in a closed position. The lock (108) comprises an actuator (130) releasably engaging the lid. The actuator (130) may be actuated by applying an actuation pressure at an actuating area (126). A top flap (190) is hinged at a top portion of a sidewall (111) and is arranged with a distal edge (192) distant from a second sidewall (112) by a clearance (194). Upon applying the actuation pressure, the distal edge (192) contacts the second sidewall (112) and provides reciprocal feedback force or haptic feedback to the user.