Child-Proof Hinged Lid Pack With Sliding Sleeve Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rigid packs of cigarettes with hinged lids are not classified as 'child-proof' as they can be easily opened by children, lacking mechanisms that require non-intuitive movements or forces to access the content.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a sliding sleeve that can be moved between a raised and lowered position to lock and unlock the lid, requiring a specific sequence of movements to open the pack, making it difficult for children to access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple hinged lid is used, then ease of operation is improved, but child-proof capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The opening operation is segmented into two distinct phases: first sliding the sleeve axially to disengage it from the lid, then rotating the lid to open the pack. This segmentation prevents children from opening the pack because they cannot perform the required sequence of movements, while adults can easily follow the intuitive sliding-then-rotating sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid assembly transitions from a static hinged structure to a dynamic system where the sleeve can move axially relative to the lid. The sleeve is designed to slide freely when disengaged from stop tabs, allowing the lid to rotate, but locks the lid when engaged with the stop tabs. This dynamic behavior enables child-proof functionality while maintaining ease of operation for adults.
2Reliability
If a sliding sleeve mechanism is added, then child-proof capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding sleeve serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a locking mechanism when engaged with stop tabs, a release mechanism when disengaged, and a guide for the opening motion. The collar also performs multiple roles by providing both structural support and engagement surfaces for the lid. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding sleeve is positioned within the container opening, nested between the container walls and the lid assembly. The collar is folded and connected to the inside of the container, partially protruding outwards to engage the lid. This nested arrangement integrates the child-proof mechanism within the existing pack structure without requiring significant additional space or external components.
3Reliability
If a sliding sleeve is incorporated, then manufacturing cost increases, but child-proof capability is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding sleeve and collar are designed with simple geometric parameters that can be directly formed from standard packaging materials such as cardboard or paperboard. The sleeve has a cylindrical shape with an internal diameter matching the container opening, and the collar has a U-shape with specific engagement surfaces. These parameter choices allow the components to be manufactured using conventional packaging machinery without requiring complex molds or specialized processes, thereby minimizing additional manufacturing costs.
Data Source
AI summary
A pack for smoking articles can include a group of smoking articles; an inner wrap, which houses the group of smoking articles; a rigid outer container which is cup-shaped, houses the inner wrap and has: an open upper end, a lower wall opposite the open upper end, a front wall and a rear wall opposite one another, and two side walls opposite one another; a lid, which is cup-shaped, is hinged to the outer container along a hinge so as to rotate, relative to the outer container, between an open position and a closed position, and has: an open lower end, an upper wall, a front wall and a rear wall opposite one another, and two side walls opposite one another; and a locking system.