Hermetic Container Closure with Segmented Metal Wire
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closure mechanisms with shaped metal wires often result in irregular sealing, require excessive pressure, and lead to heavy, expensive, and environmentally impactful lids, while also preventing stacking due to increased wire length and stress on the metal wire.
Innovation Solution
A closure mechanism formed by a shaped metal wire with three regions, where the first region is supported on two opposite points on the lid's front side, applying uniform pressure and reducing the need for thick lids, allowing for easier opening and closing with less material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a convex lid with a central support point is used to apply pressure, then sealing pressure is achieved, but the lid becomes very thick and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism is segmented into multiple functional regions: a first region for supporting on the lid, a second region with symmetrical portions for applying pressure, and a third region for articulation. This segmentation allows pressure to be applied directly at the sealing perimeter rather than through a convex central structure, eliminating the need for a thick heavy lid.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the dimensional approach by moving the pressure application point from the central vertical dimension to the peripheral horizontal dimension. The symmetrical portions of the second region apply pressure directly at the sealing interface, allowing a flat thin lid design instead of requiring convex central thickness.
2Force
If a convex lid with central support is used, then pressure can be applied, but the metal wire length increases and stresses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The metal wire is divided into three distinct regions with specific functions. The first region is short and supports on the lid surface, the second region connects symmetrical portions for pressure application, and the third region handles articulation. This segmentation minimizes the total wire length compared to a single long wire spanning from central support to peripheral articulation points.
Solution Approach 2:
The first region acts as an intermediary element that transfers force from the articulation mechanism to the sealing perimeter without requiring a long direct connection. This intermediary structure reduces the overall wire length and the bending moments it must withstand.
3Reliability
If excessive pressure is applied to assure sealing, then sealing is achieved, but the lid must be very thick to withstand the stress
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism applies pressure locally and directly at the sealing perimeter where it is most needed, rather than applying excessive global pressure through a convex central structure. The symmetrical portions of the second region concentrate force at the critical sealing interface, achieving reliable sealing with a thin flat lid that does not require excessive thickness to distribute stress.
4Strength
If the metal wire is made stronger to withstand increased stresses, then wire strength is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the wire into three regions with different functional requirements allows optimization of wire gauge and material properties in each region. The first region can use thinner wire since it only supports on the lid, while the second and third regions can be strengthened only where needed for pressure application and articulation, reducing overall material cost compared to a uniformly strong wire.
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 solution achieves a more uniform hermetic seal with reduced pressure requirements, resulting in a lightweight, cost-effective, and ecologically friendly container design that can be stacked.
Implementation Method 1
a second region formed by two symmetrical portions arranged on diametrically opposite sides of the mouth of the receptacle, each connected to a different end of the first region and configured for being under elastic stress, when in the closed position, attracting the first region to the mouth of the receptacle
Data Source
AI summary
The container with a hermetic closure has a receptacle having a receptacle opening surrounded by an annular mouth surface, a lid having a front side and a back side intended for being oriented towards the outside and the inside of the receptacle, respectively, a sealing ring arranged between the annular mouth surface of the receptacle and an annular perimetral flange of the lid, and a closure mechanism formed by a shaped metal wire defining a first region coupleable to the lid, a second region being under elastic stress in a closed position and a third region coupleable to the receptacle. The front side of the lid has at least two opposite supporting points in an area coinciding with or adjacent to the annular flange, and the first region of the closure mechanism is configured for being supported, in a closed position, on said at least two opposite supporting points.