Elastomer Pouch Closure Profiles With Audible Snap Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing re-closable pouches and containers made of elastomeric materials lack a reliable auditory and tactile feedback mechanism to confirm proper closure, and their sealing mechanisms are complex and not directly transferable from thermoplastic bags, leading to uncertainty in sealing integrity.
Innovation Solution
A closure system for elastomeric pouches and containers featuring a male and female closure profile with alternating segments of different shapes, providing an audible and tactile snap when closed, ensuring a secure seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a closure system with multiple pairs of opposing, interlocking closure profiles is used, then sealing capability is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The closure profile is segmented into discrete alternating segments (first and second segments) along the closure member, allowing simplified construction while maintaining effective sealing through the alternating engagement pattern
2Reliability
If a closure system with multiple pairs of opposing, interlocking closure profiles is used, then sealing capability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to difficulty in confirming proper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The alternating first and second segments provide distinct tactile and auditory feedback during closure, allowing users to confirm proper sealing through the characteristic snapping sound and feel of alternating segment engagement
3Ease of manufacture
If thermoplastic sealing technology is used for elastomeric bags, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but reliability deteriorates under extreme temperature and pressure conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is designed with specific geometric parameters including segment heights (h1, h2), thicknesses (t1, t2), and engagement depths that are optimized for elastomeric material properties and extreme condition performance rather than thermoplastic parameters
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system offers a reliable auditory and tactile feedback confirming proper closure, enhancing sealing integrity with a simple and efficient mechanism suitable for elastomeric materials, even under rigorous conditions.
Implementation Method 1
providing an audible and tactile snap when closed, ensuring a secure seal
Data Source
AI summary
A container made entirely from an elastomer includes a body with a front wall and a rear wall that is connected to the front wall along a peripheral edge. The container further includes a closure system comprising a front side having a male closure profile that includes a male closure element and a rear side having a female closure profile. The female closure profile includes a female closure element and defines a cavity. A centerline extends through the cavity such that the female closure element is symmetrical about the centerline. The male closure element includes a head portion that has a primary profile and a secondary profile that extends from the primary profile. A height of the secondary profile measured in a direction that is perpendicular to the centerline is greater than a height of the primary profile measured in a direction that is perpendicular to the centerline.