Thermoformed Container Locking Lug and Recess Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermoformed containers lack a secure locking mechanism that can be easily opened, posing challenges in shipping, storage, and serving of food items.
Innovation Solution
A thermoformed container design featuring a base and lid with a locking lug and recess system, where the lid is configured to move between closed and open positions, utilizing a cantilevered lug ledge and opposing recess ledge with engaging surfaces and a lug stop, allowing for secure closure with minimal force and easy opening with greater force, while maintaining structural integrity even with reduced web thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to thermoformed containers, then security during shipping and storage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lug and locking recess are integrated directly into the container walls during thermoforming, merging the locking mechanism with the container structure itself. This eliminates separate locking components while providing secure interengagement between nested containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes controlled variations in web thickness and material properties to create the locking lug and recess features. By changing local material parameters during forming, the patent achieves reliable locking without adding mechanical complexity.
2Loss of substance
If web thickness is reduced to save material, then loss of substance decreases, but strength and locking capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates localized variations in web thickness, forming thicker regions for locking lugs and recesses where strength is needed, while maintaining thinner web elsewhere to reduce material usage. This local quality differentiation allows reduced overall material consumption without compromising locking strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct lug and recess features formed from the web, allowing independent optimization of material distribution. Critical locking areas receive concentrated material while non-critical areas use minimal material.
3Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then reliability during transportation is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates dynamic characteristics through the interplay of elastic deformation and geometric constraints. The locking lug flexes during engagement and disengagement, providing secure locking during transport while allowing easy manual operation when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Thermoformed locking assembly comprising a first web portion including locking lug having lug undercut defining a cantilevered lug ledge having lug engaging surface, second web portion including locking recess having recess undercut defining an opposing recess ledge having recess engaging surface and a lug stop opposite the recess undercut. Locking recess configured to receive locking lug and lug stop configured to position locking lug in locking recess with the lug engaging surface in engagement with the recess engaging surface when first web portion is moved towards second web portion.