Flip-Top Closure With Tiltable Actuating Region
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices for containers, particularly those with flip-top lids, face challenges in being easy to use while maintaining security, especially during transportation, as they can inadvertently open due to vertical forces applied during handling.
Innovation Solution
A closure design featuring a flip-top lid attached to a base element by a hinge, with an actuating region having a latching element that is tiltable and deformable, a slit separating it from the sidewall, and an operating element that can be easily accessed by the user, which requires a lower force to open intentionally but resists accidental opening due to its design geometry and frangible bridges indicating first-time use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the closure uses a simple hinge connection for the flip-top lid, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates as the lid may inadvertently open during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The latching element is designed to proactively counteract unintended opening forces by engaging with the container neck. The latching protrusion and recess create a mechanical interlock that prevents the flip-top lid from opening accidentally during transportation, while still allowing intentional opening when the operating element is actuated.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating region is designed to be tiltable and deformable, transitioning between a latching position (where the latching element engages with the container) and a release position (where the lid can open). This dynamic mechanism allows the closure to adapt between secure closed state and intentional opening state.
2Reliability
If the latching element is made rigid and firmly connected to the sidewall, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens as more force is required to open
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating region is designed to be tiltable and deformable relative to the remaining regions of the sidewall, allowing it to transition between latching and release positions. This dynamic design enables the latching element to be securely engaged during normal conditions but easily disengaged when the operating element is actuated in the circumferential direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The sidewall is divided into a rigid remaining region (for structural integrity) and a flexible actuating region (for easy operation). The actuating region is separable from the remaining regions by a slot, allowing independent movement of the latching element while maintaining overall structural strength.
3Ease of operation
If the latching element is positioned at the outer surface of the sidewall, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates as it is more susceptible to accidental activation
Solution Approach 1:
The operating element extends radially outwardly from the actuating region in an asymmetric manner, creating a specific geometric configuration that requires intentional actuation. The slot extends in a circumferential direction, guiding the actuation motion and preventing accidental activation from vertical or radial forces during transportation.
4Manufacturing precision
If the actuating region is fully integrated with the sidewall without separation, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation worsens as the latching mechanism becomes less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating region is separable from the remaining regions of the sidewall by a slot, creating distinct functional zones. This segmentation allows the actuating region to move independently between latching and release positions while maintaining precise manufacturing tolerances for the latching elements and their engagement surfaces.
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 closure is easy to open for users while providing high security against inadvertent opening, as the force required to open it intentionally is lower when applied in a specific direction, and the design ensures higher resistance to accidental opening during transportation, with frangible bridges indicating first-time use.
Implementation Method 1
The actuating region is connected with the remaining regions of the sidewall of said flip-top lid by at least one deformable hinge section biasing said actuating region into its latching position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a closure for a container with a base element and a flip-top lid attached to said base element by a hinge. The flip-top lid can be moved between an opened and a closed position. The base element has a skirt with attachment means for attaching the closure to the container, and said flip-top lid has a top cover and a sidewall. The closure comprises an actuating region with a latching element, wherein said actuating region is tiltable and/or deformable relative to the remaining regions of the sidewall between a latching position and a released position. The present invention also relates to a container with such a closure.