Lockable Medicine Container with Rotating Ring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for secure medicine containers that can be accessed only by the patient or a trusted caregiver to prevent misuse of prescription medications, such as opioids and cannabis.
Innovation Solution
A lockable medicine container with a canister, lid, and locking ring mechanism that includes a tab and slot arrangement or a cam lock, and optionally a keypad with a circuit board and motor assembly, allowing secure rotation between locked and unlocked positions to prevent unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple open container is used, then ease of access is improved, but security is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into separate functional components: a canister for storage, a lid for closure, and a locking ring with locking members for security. This segmentation allows the container to provide both easy access (simple lid removal) and security (locking mechanism) through distinct parts that work together.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring is designed to be rotatable between locked and unlocked positions, and the locking members can move between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic design allows the container to transition between secure and accessible states, providing both security and ease of access as needed.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the container, then security is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring combines multiple locking members (first and second locking members) into a single rotating component. This merging allows the security function to be achieved with a unified structure rather than separate locking mechanisms, reducing overall complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ring serves multiple functions: it provides the locking mechanism through its members, it indicates the locked/unlocked state through its rotational position, and it integrates with both the lid and canister. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall structure.
3Reliability
If a keypad with motor assembly is added, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The keypad with motor assembly provides automated locking and unlocking functionality. When the correct code is entered, the motor automatically rotates the locking ring to the unlocked position, and the lid can be automatically released. This self-service mechanism reduces manual manipulation complexity while maintaining strong security through code verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A lockable medicine container includes a canister having a closed bottom end, an opposite top end defining an access opening, a surrounding wall between the bottom end and the access opening, and an interior volume within the surrounding wall. A radially inwardly extending ledge protrudes from the surrounding wall along at least a portion of a perimeter of the access opening. A lid is removably covering the access opening on the top end. A locking ring is rotatably and non-removably secured to the lid and is rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locked position is when the locking ring is engaged with the ledge to prevent removal of the lid from the canister. The unlocked position is when the locking ring is disengaged from the ledge to allow removal of the lid from the canister. A lock member is connected to the locking ring to permit selectively moving the locking ring between the locked position and unlocked position.