Hinged-lid packaging with external resilient mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hinged-lid packaging for consumer goods, such as cigarette containers, requires users to grip the lid for access, which can be difficult due to resilient hinges, and existing solutions like spring members inside the box reduce storage space, cause item deformation, and complicate manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A container design with a hinged connector and resilient mechanism that moves the lid away from the open end without requiring users to grip the lid, allowing one-handed operation and maintaining storage space, using an integral articulated structure that biases the connector away from the box, enhancing manufacturing simplicity and aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring member is attached inside the box to push the lid away, then the lid can be opened easily, but the storage space is reduced and items may be deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member is extracted from the interior space of the box and repositioned to attach to the exterior surface of the box. This extraction eliminates the space occupation and deformation risk inside the storage area while preserving the lid-opening function through the external spring's biasing force.
2Ease of operation
If a spring member is attached inside the box, then the lid can be opened easily, but manufacturing complexity increases due to adhesion requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member, box, and lid are merged into a single integral structure formed from one continuous blank material. This integration eliminates the need for separate adhesion processes, reduces manufacturing steps, and ensures robust structural connection without relying on glue strength.
3Volume of stationary object
If an external spring member is used, then the internal storage space is maintained, but the external appearance is degraded and manufacturing machines may jam
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member is nested within the structural framework of the box itself, with the spring's coils and components integrated into the box's wall structure. This nesting allows the spring to function externally for lid biasing while being visually concealed within the box's geometric form, maintaining aesthetic appearance.
4Strength
If the hinge is made durable and sturdy, then the connection strength is improved, but the biasing force increases making operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge connection is segmented into two distinct functional zones: a durable hinge joint for structural strength and connection, and a separate spring member for providing controlled biasing force. This segmentation allows the hinge to be sturdy while the spring's mechanical properties can be optimized for ease of operation with lower resistance.
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
Enables easy access to contents without gripping the lid, maintains storage capacity, and simplifies manufacturing by integrating components without adhesives, while providing reinforcement and promotional space without affecting the container's appearance.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient mechanism arranged between the box and the connector such that, during lid opening, the resilient mechanism causes relative movement of the box to the connector
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a container for consumer goods. The container comprises: a box for receiving goods, the box comprising an open end; a lid rotatable between open and closed positions for respectively opening and closing the open end of the box; a hinged connector that connects the lid to the box, where the hinged connector is connected to the lid at a connector-lid hinge line and connected to the box at a connector-box hinge line; and, a resilient mechanism arranged between the box and the connector such that, during lid opening, the resilient mechanism causes relative movement of the box to the connector.