Inset Closure System for Prying-Resistant Container Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing container systems are vulnerable to being opened by determined individuals, as the lids or closure systems can be easily pried off when they snap onto the container body without secure threading, posing a security risk and aesthetic issue.

Innovation Solution

The container system features a closure system that is inset relative to the rim of the container body, hiding the terminal edge and making it difficult to pry off, with a locking system positioned inwardly to prevent accidental disengagement, and allowing for additional 'billboard' space and improved aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the closure system is inset relative to the rim of the container body, then security against prying is improved, but accessibility for legitimate users may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against pryingVSAvoidaccessibility for legitimate users
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system is nested within the rim of the container body, with the terminal edge of the closure system positioned inside the rim. This nesting configuration hides the terminal edge from external access while maintaining the closure function, thereby improving security against prying without completely eliminating accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking system acts as an intermediary mechanism between the closure system and the container body. It provides controlled access through a locking mechanism that can be engaged and disengaged, allowing legitimate users to open the container while preventing unauthorized access through prying or other manipulation of the closure edges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the locking system is positioned inwardly from the rim, then accidental disengagement is reduced, but ease of operation for opening may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprevention of accidental disengagementVSAvoidease of opening
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking system incorporates feedback mechanisms through audible or tactile indicators that provide user confirmation when the locking mechanism is engaged or disengaged. This feedback helps users understand the state of the closure system, making the opening operation more intuitive while maintaining secure locking when closed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The locking system is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to respond to user input while maintaining stability during normal use. The locking mechanism can be easily actuated by deliberate user actions (such as pressing a button or turning a dial) while remaining stable and resistant to accidental disengagement during transport or storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Shape

If the closure system is inset relative to the rim, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but structural complexity may increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The closure system and locking mechanism are merged into an integrated assembly that functions as a unified structure. This integration allows the terminal edge of the closure system to be positioned within the rim for aesthetic purposes while the locking mechanism provides the necessary functional complexity in a coordinated manner, reducing overall structural complexity compared to separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3538450B1Container systems
Publication Date: 2021.01.27 PROCTER & GAMBLE CO
  • EP3538450B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3538450B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3538450B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Container systems (100) include a container body (200) and a closure system (110), such as a lid. The closure systems may further include locking systems (140) to prevent access by unintended users, such as children, to the contents stored in the containers.