Folding Container Closure with Interference Fit Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Soft-sided insulated containers often lack an effective seal when closed, leading to potential spills during transport or when the container is tipped over, and they also fail to provide a secure closure mechanism for added protection.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first closure member with a stiffened peripheral frame and a second closure member that engages the first in a secure interference fit, providing a tighter seal and additional securement through a secondary closure mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a zipper closure is used in soft-sided insulated containers, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of sealing is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is divided into multiple independent components: a zipper for easy operation and a separate snap closure mechanism for secure sealing. The snap closure engages with the zipper to provide additional sealing, allowing each component to optimize its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure mechanism transitions from a single-mode operation to a multi-mode system where the snap closure can engage at different positions along the zipper track. This allows the sealing pressure and engagement force to be adjusted independently from the ease of opening operation.
2Reliability
If stiffer materials are used to create an interference fit seal, then reliability of sealing is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is separated from the opening/closing function. The snap closure provides the interference fit sealing action, while the zipper handles the easy opening operation. This segmentation allows the stiffer sealing mechanism to exist without making the overall closure difficult to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap closure acts as an intermediary between the zipper and the container body. It translates the simple zipper motion into a secure sealed state through its interference fit engagement, mediating between ease of operation and sealing reliability.
3Reliability
If a secondary closure mechanism is added to secure the lid, then reliability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The snap closure mechanism is merged with the zipper structure, using the same track and engagement points. This integration allows the secondary closure to provide enhanced security without adding separate, independent components that would increase complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap closure serves multiple functions: it provides additional sealing, secures the lid in place, and works in conjunction with the zipper. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
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
This configuration enhances the container's ability to maintain contents securely, both when closed and during transport, by providing a more effective seal and additional securement, thus preventing spills and ensuring contents remain intact.
Implementation Method 1
The first closure member defines a rigid land. The second closure member defines a stiffened member. In the closed position of the second closure member relative to the first closure member the stiffened member is operable to engage the rigid land
Data Source
AI summary
A soft sided insulated container assembly includes a first portion having an insulated, soft sided external wall structure, and a substantially rigid molded plastic frame that defines the opening of a receptacle of the soft-sided insulated main body of the container. The frame is removable from the main body. It has a rigid cover structure that includes a reinforcement member for engaging a land region of the molded frame, thereby tending to yield an interface tending to have a sealing relationship. The container is foldable, and has stiffening panels in the front and rear walls to facilitate folding.