Hinged Container Cap Locking Rib for Reliable Open Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closing systems for containers, such as those with a cap and spout, are either difficult to open or fail to maintain the cap in an open position reliably, leading to unintentional closure.
Innovation Solution
A closing system with a cap and spout where the cap is attached to a support ring via a hinge, allowing rotation around a central axis, and features a locking tab with a rib that engages with a retaining protrusion on the spout to securely maintain the cap in an open position, facilitated by materials with differing tensile moduli for easy opening and closing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tongue is dimensioned to bear against the neck during tilting, then the cap can be opened, but it becomes too hard to open or does not hold open properly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the locking mechanism by introducing a locking tab with a rib that engages with a retaining protrusion on the spout. This geometric modification creates a reliable mechanical interlock that maintains the cap in the open position without requiring excessive opening force, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability of holding open.
2Strength
If the cap is made rigid to maintain structure, then it holds shape well, but it becomes difficult to open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing a hinge connection between the cap and spout that allows rotational movement. The hinge creates a localized flexible joint while the rest of the cap maintains its rigid structure. This enables the cap to be easily opened through rotation while preserving its structural strength and shape when closed.
3Ease of repair
If the support ring is made removable for cleaning, then maintenance is easier, but the cap can be accidentally detached
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by designing the support ring with an internal skirt that preliminarily engages with the spout structure before use. This pre-engagement mechanism ensures the cap remains securely attached during normal operation while still allowing intentional removal for cleaning, thus maintaining both reliability and maintainability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The closing system (4) for a container includes a spout (8) and a cap (6) attached to the spout with a hinge, screwed on the spout and switchable between a closed position, in which a central axis (X6) of the cap is coincident with a central axis (X8) of the spout, and an open position, in which an opening angle (α) is comprised between 90° and 150°. The cap is equipped with a locking tab (28), and the spout is equipped with a retaining protrusion (24) which is provided on an outer side (8A) of the spout. The locking tab has a rib (30) that extends radially from the locking tab outwards. When the cap is in the closed position, the locking tab is not in contact with the retaining protrusion (24), and when the cap is in the open position, the rib is in abutment against the retaining protrusion and prevents the cap from closing.