Hinge-Lid Container With Interrupted Conductive Trace
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for consumer articles with integrated sensors or electronic components require complex semiconductors and special formats, making it difficult to easily energize these components and fabricate the containers using high-speed techniques with minimal modifications.
Innovation Solution
A hinge-lid container with a weakening line on the outer surface acting as a hinge, and an electric conductive trace that forms a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position and an open circuit when closed, allowing for simple and reliable activation of sensors or components by rotating the lid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex semiconductors or special formats are used to integrate sensors or electronic components in containers, then the sensors or components can be activated and connected to an energy source, but the manufacturing complexity increases and existing high-speed fabrication techniques cannot be used with minimal modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex semiconductor-based electronic switching systems with a simple mechanical hinge mechanism. The hinge's movement between closed and open positions mechanically controls the electrical connection, eliminating the need for complex semiconductors or special formats while maintaining reliable activation of sensors or electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism automatically controls the electrical connection based on its position. When the hinge is in the closed position, the conductive trace is interrupted and the circuit is open; when the hinge is in the open position, the conductive trace is connected and the circuit is closed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external control systems or complex formatting.
2Use of energy by moving object
If complex semiconductors or special formats are used to integrate sensors or electronic components, then the components can be energized, but the ease of manufacture decreases and existing high-speed fabrication techniques require significant modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex semiconductor-based electrical switching with a simple mechanical hinge system that naturally opens or closes the electrical circuit based on its position. This allows existing high-speed fabrication techniques to be used without significant modifications, as the hinge and conductive trace can be integrated into standard manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge serves multiple functions: it provides the mechanical connection between container parts and simultaneously acts as the electrical switch. The conductive trace on the hinge performs dual roles as both a structural element and an electrical conductor. This multi-functionality simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate components and processes required.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple hinge mechanism is used, then the ease of manufacture increases and existing fabrication techniques can be used, but the reliability of electrical connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive trace acts as an intermediary element that bridges the mechanical hinge and the electrical circuit requirements. By placing the conductive trace on the hinge surface, the patent ensures reliable electrical connection while maintaining the simplicity of the mechanical hinge mechanism. The trace conforms to the hinge's movement and maintains consistent contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies conductive material specifically to the hinge surface where electrical connection is needed, rather than making the entire hinge electrically conductive. This localized application of conductivity ensures reliable electrical connection at the critical interface while maintaining the simplicity and ease of manufacture of the overall hinge mechanism.
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 container enables easy energization of sensors or electronic components by rotating the lid, utilizing existing high-speed fabrication techniques with minimal modifications, and ensures reliable electrical contact through the conductive trace.
Implementation Method 1
the electric conductive trace forms a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position and the electric conductive trace forms an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge-lid container for consumer articles is provided, the hinge-lid container defining an inner surface and an outer surface and including: a box configured to house the consumer articles; a lid hinged to the box along a hinge and being moveable between a closed position and an active position about the hinge, the hinge including a weakening line realized on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width between 0.1 millimetre and 1 millimetre; and an electric conductive trace provided on the outer surface, the weakening line passing through and interrupting the electric conductive trace, the electric conductive trace forming a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position and forming an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position. A method of forming a hinge-lid container for consumer articles is also provided.