Lidded Container Segmented Locking and Sealing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers with lid members coupled by a hinge require excessive force to close due to radial displacement and expansion, leading to potential sealing issues and design compromises, as the sidewall and inner ring increase the outer diameter of the lid member, causing air path narrowing and pressure buildup.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a cylindrical body with a lid member having an inner ring and a projected part with an outer peripheral surface projection that slides over an inner peripheral surface projection on the container body, allowing easier locking and sealing without increasing the lid member's outer diameter, and a flange for improved alignment and reduced friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the inner ring is fitted to the inner wall of the opening portion to enhance sealing properties, then sealing performance is improved, but a large force is needed for closing the lid member
Solution Approach 1:
The lid member is divided into two functional components: the inner ring responsible for sealing and the projected part responsible for locking. The inner ring fits into the first recess to provide sealing, while the projected part engages with the second recess to lock the lid. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function independently, reducing the closing force required.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted from the inner ring and transferred to a separate projected part. By removing the locking function from the sealing component, the inner ring can fit into the opening portion without requiring excessive force, while the projected part provides the locking mechanism through engagement with the second recess.
2Reliability
If the sidewall and inner ring are provided to the lid member to enable closing and sealing, then sealing function is achieved, but the outer diameter of the lid member is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is nested within the lid member structure, fitting into the first recess of the container body. The projected part is positioned on the top surface of the lid member, concentric with the inner ring. This nested arrangement allows the sealing and locking components to be integrated within the lid member's footprint without increasing its outer diameter.
3Reliability
If the lid member is closed tightly to improve sealing, then sealing performance is enhanced, but the air path is narrowed and inner pressure rises causing lid floating
Solution Approach 1:
The projected part acts as an intermediary mechanism between the lid member and container body. By providing a dedicated locking engagement with the second recess, it secures the lid in the closed state without requiring excessive compression force. This prevents over-compression that would narrow the air path and build up inner pressure, while still maintaining reliable sealing through the inner ring's engagement with the first recess.
Data Source
AI summary
In a container having a lid member coupled to a container body by a hinge, the lid member includes a top surface, an inner ring formed on the top surface, and a projected part is formed on the top surface concentrically with the inner ring and which has an outer peripheral surface provided with an outer peripheral surface projection along the circumferential direction. The container body has a sidewall with a first inner peripheral surface having an inner peripheral surface projection formed along the circumferential direction, and a second inner peripheral surface having an inner diameter different from that of the first inner peripheral surface. When the lid member is closed, the inner ring seals the container body by being fitted to the second inner peripheral surface. The outer peripheral surface projection contacts and slides over the inner peripheral surface projection to lock the lid member the container body.