Flexible Member Locking Mechanism for Child-Resistant Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packages lack effective locking mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access, particularly by children and the elderly, leading to potential exposure or ingestion of substances contained within.
Innovation Solution
A package design featuring a flexible member with a first and second segment connected by an elbow, where the second segment extends away from the first due to a spring force, allowing the lid to be locked in a closed position and unlocked through a specific force application, requiring a complex motion to open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to the package, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two functional segments: a flexible member with first and second segments connected by an elbow, and a separate engaging structure on the container wall. This segmentation allows the locking function to be distributed across multiple simple components rather than one complex mechanism, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible member transitions between different states (flexed and relaxed positions) based on applied force, creating a dynamic locking system. The member moves from a first flexed position during normal operation to a second flexed position when force is applied to unlock, providing security through motion rather than complex mechanical interlocks.
2Ease of operation
If a flexible member with spring force is used for locking, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The elbow is designed to change its flexion parameter in response to applied force, transitioning the flexible member between locked and unlocked states. This parameter change approach allows the system to achieve precise locking positions through force-induced deformation rather than requiring precision-machined stop positions, effectively trading manufacturing precision for ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring force in the elbow automatically returns the flexible member to its original position after unlocking, eliminating the need for additional return springs or complex reset mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the same elastic deformation that enables unlocking to also provide the return motion, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining ease of operation.
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 design provides enhanced security by ensuring the lid remains locked unless a specific sequence of forces is applied, reducing the risk of accidental or unauthorized access, meeting child-resistant standards.
Implementation Method 1
the second segment extends in an outward direction, away from the first segment due to a spring force from the elbow
Implementation Method 2
the elbow is made from a resilient material, the elbow providing a spring force that causes the second segment to extend away from the first segment
Data Source
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AI summary
The package includes a base, a primary lid connected to the base, the primary lid and the base defining a primary storage area, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a flexible member including a first segment and a second segment that are connected by an elbow, the first segment being connected to the primary lid, a distal end of the second segment including at least one contact structure, the flexible member including at least one first engaging structure between the elbow and a front surface of the at least one contact structure, and a second engaging structure on a first wall of the base. The container includes a receptacle wall cooperating with a peripheral wall to define a receptacle, and a flexible tab projecting from the top wall, the flexible tab including a fixed end adjacent to the top wall and a free end opposite the fixed end.