Flame-Mitigation Closure Fitment for Recyclable Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flame mitigation devices for flammable liquids are often permanently affixed to containers, leading to issues like slow fluid flow and clogging, and they do not meet sustainability requirements for recyclability, while also failing to prevent flame propagation effectively.
Innovation Solution
A closure system with a removable cap and integrally formed flame mitigation device, featuring a mesh element with specific aperture and crossbar arrangements, a protective ring, and a tamper-evident panel, designed to meet regulatory standards and facilitate recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flame mitigation devices are permanently affixed to containers, then flame propagation is prevented, but fluid flow becomes slow and apertures become clogged
Solution Approach 1:
The flame mitigation device is made removable and replaceable rather than permanently fixed. The closure system allows the flame mitigation device to be detached and reattached, enabling maintenance and cleaning to restore fluid flow capabilities while maintaining flame prevention functionality when installed
Solution Approach 2:
The closure system is divided into separate components: the closure body, the flame mitigation device, and the cap. This segmentation allows the flame mitigation device to be independently removed and replaced without affecting the entire closure assembly, resolving the conflict between permanent attachment and maintainability
2Ease of manufacture
If flame mitigation devices are integrally formed with containers, then manufacturing is simplified, but filling becomes problematic due to slow flow and clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The flame mitigation device is installed in the closure after the container is filled, not during the filling process. The removable design allows the container to be filled first through the open closure, then the flame mitigation device is attached to provide protection without having impeded the filling operation
3Reliability
If closure components are made from multiple materials for functionality, then performance is improved, but recyclability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is designed to be substantially homogeneous in material composition, with all major components (closure body, flame mitigation device, cap) made from the same or compatible polymer materials. This allows the entire closure assembly to be recycled together without requiring disassembly or material separation, meeting sustainability requirements while maintaining functional performance
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 effectively prevents flame propagation and tampering, while allowing for easy recycling and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements, with fluid flow and sealing capabilities maintained.
Implementation Method 1
The vapor pressure emitted by the entrained fuel is sufficient to prevent combustible ratios of air and fuel from existing at the container opening
Implementation Method 2
the construction of the cup or screen is such that flames are quenched before they can travel beyond the screen
Data Source
AI summary
Flame mitigation devices meeting all applicable regulatory requirements are described. The system includes a mesh element affixed to a closure fitment that is specially designed to couple to a rounded bead or edges on a container neck. Tamper-evident and child resistant features can be incorporated at the interfaces of the closure fitment and a cap that is removably attachable to the closure, whereas the closure is effectively coupled to the container in a permanent a manner.