Lockable Lidded Container Closure Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closure devices are not cost-effective, difficult to manufacture, and lack a simple yet robust locking mechanism for secure closure.
Innovation Solution
A closure device comprising an engagement element and a clasp with a hinge element and retaining portions that provide a friction fit, combined with a locking mechanism featuring a lock body and button, allowing for secure and easy assembly using moulded plastics materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a traditional closure device is used, then the container can be closed, but the manufacturing cost increases and assembly becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into separate functional components: a clasp body with engagement portion, a hinge element with retaining portions, and a locking element. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using moulded plastics, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining secure closure functionality through the coordinated action of these modular parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The clasp body, hinge element, and locking element are combined into a single integrated closure device that operates together to secure the container. The engagement portion of the clasp body combines the functions of latching and securing, while the hinge element integrates the pivot mechanism and retaining features, creating a unified closure system that is simpler to manufacture than traditional separate components.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple closure mechanism is used, then manufacturing is easier, but the locking mechanism becomes less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge element incorporates a partially cylindrical portion that extends around the pivot portion, creating a curved retention path. This curved geometry provides robust locking by guiding the retaining portions through a defined arc within the locating aperture, ensuring positive engagement while maintaining simple moulded plastics construction. The cylindrical curvature adds structural strength without complicating manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element changes its position from a fixed state to a movable state, engaging with the retaining portions to lock them in the locating element. This parameter change from static to dynamic positioning provides robust locking capability. The locking element can be moved into engagement with the retaining portions, creating a secure locked state that prevents accidental opening while remaining simple to manufacture as a moulded plastics component.
3Reliability
If multiple components are used, then the locking mechanism is more secure, but assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is designed to assemble itself through the inherent geometric relationships of its components. The retaining portions of the hinge element fit into the locating aperture of the locating element, and the locking element automatically engages with the retaining portions when moved into position. This self-assembling characteristic reduces the need for complex assembly procedures while maintaining secure locking through the coordinated engagement of multiple components.
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 provides a cost-effective, simple, and robust closure mechanism for containers, ensuring secure engagement and easy assembly, suitable for containers like suitcases, while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the hinge element is of resilient material, and is arranged such that the first and second retaining portions thereof are biased to diverge from one another, thereby providing a friction fit within the locating element
Implementation Method 2
the hinge element is of resilient material, and is arranged such that the first and second retaining portions thereof are biased to diverge from one another
Data Source
AI summary
A container (1) has first and second body portions, (2,3) and a closure device operable to hold the first and second body portions (2,3) in a closed 5 position. The closure device comprises an engagement element (5) which extends from the first body portion (2) of the container, and a clasp (6) attached to the second body portion (3) of the container (1), and releasably engageable with the engagement element, thereby to hold the second body portion (3) in position with respect to the first body portion (2).