Integrally-Molded Spout Cap with Tamper Strip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional welded-in spout dispensers for flexible containers and pouches require multiple separate pieces, including a spout and cap, which can lead to loose plastic waste and environmental sustainability issues. Additionally, these designs often lack integrated tamper-evidence features that remain affixed to the fitment.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece, integrally-molded spout and cap assembly with automatic directional alignment and a tamper-evident strip that remains affixed to the cap, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly of multiple components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If conventional threaded caps are used to seal the fitment, then the sealing function is achieved, but multiple separate plastic parts are created leading to loose plastic waste
Solution Approach 1:
The cap and spout are merged into a single integrally-molded piece, eliminating the need for separate cap and spout components. This single-piece construction reduces plastic waste by preventing loose parts while maintaining the sealing function through the integrated design where the cap forms an integral part of the spout assembly.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate manufacturing processes are used for spout and cap, then manufacturing flexibility is maintained, but production complexity and tooling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spout and cap are manufactured in a single integrally-molded process, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing processes and tooling for each component. This reduces production complexity while maintaining manufacturing flexibility, as the single-piece design can be produced using standard injection molding techniques.
3Reliability
If tamper-evident features are added to conventional fitments, then tamper evidence is provided, but additional separate plastic parts are created
Solution Approach 1:
The tamper-evident feature is integrated into the single-piece spout and cap assembly, eliminating the need for separate tamper-evident rings or components. The frangible bridge is formed as an integral part of the molded assembly, providing reliable tamper evidence while preventing additional loose plastic parts from being created.
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 solution reduces plastic waste by eliminating separate cap and spout components, provides reliable self-alignment for easy use, and maintains tamper-evidence without creating additional plastic parts, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
Implementation Method 1
Heat is applied to melt and adhere the layered sheet to the fitment so as to create a heremtic or leak-proof seal
Implementation Method 2
Heat is applied to melt and adhere the layered sheet to the fitment
Data Source
AI summary
A unitary plastic closure system, including tamper evident and sealing features in the form of a flip-top cap with a tamper evident strip that remains connected to the closure, is described. This closure is particularly amenable for use with heat-sealed bags and pouches, insofar as it includes a a fitment with a base member and a conduit sealed by a pivoting cap.