Magnetic Closure Hold-Open Mechanism for Hands-Free Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices for storage devices lack a mechanism to hold the closure in an open position without constant user intervention, complicating the introduction and removal of objects or liquids.
Innovation Solution
A closure device with magnetically interacting first and second closure parts that can be displaced into an open position and locked via a hold-open mechanism, which counteracts closure without manual force, and assists in automatic closure via magnetic and spring-assisted forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a magnetic closure device is used to close an opening, then the closure can be easily operated, but the closure parts cannot be held in the open position without constant user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The hold-open mechanism is activated in advance when the closure parts are opened, automatically engaging the locking elements to maintain the open position without requiring continuous user effort. This preliminary action prepares the system to hold the state automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device serves itself by using the hold-open mechanism to automatically maintain the open position once activated. The locking elements and holding forces work autonomously to keep the closure parts open without needing constant user intervention, making the system self-sustaining in the open state.
2Ease of operation
If a hold-open mechanism is added to maintain the open position, then the introduction of objects is facilitated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hold-open mechanism is merged with the existing magnetic closure device structure. The locking elements are integrated into the closure parts, and the holding forces are combined with the magnetic forces, creating a unified system rather than separate independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure parts serve multiple functions: they provide magnetic closure, enable manual opening, activate the hold-open mechanism, and maintain the open position through locking elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Productivity
If magnetic forces are used to assist automatic closure, then the closing action is enhanced, but the force required to initially open the closure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure process is segmented into distinct phases: the initial opening phase where user force overcomes magnetic attraction, and the subsequent closure phase where magnetic forces assist automatic closure. This segmentation allows optimization of force requirements for each phase independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device exhibits periodic action with distinct states: held open by the hold-open mechanism, transitioning to closed position with magnetic assistance, and potentially returning to open state. This periodic operation allows the system to leverage magnetic forces during the closure phase without requiring excessive force during opening, as the hold-open mechanism compensates during the open state.
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
Facilitates easy opening and closing of storage devices by maintaining the open position without user effort and ensuring secure closure through magnetic and spring-assisted forces, enhancing user convenience and device operability.
Implementation Method 1
The first closure part and the second closure part interact, in a magnetically attracting manner, in such a way that the opening is closed in a closed position of the closure device
Implementation Method 2
The first closure part and the second closure part are locked in the open position via at least one hold-open mechanism, which counteracts a displacement of the first and second closure parts into the closed position by means of a holding (open) force
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a closure device for closing an opening havingat least one first closure part and at least one second closure part interact, in a magnetically attracting manner, in such a way that the opening is closed in a closed position of the closure device, andfor releasing the opening the first closure part and the second closure part are displaceable into an open position, counter to a magnetic force applied by the first and second closure parts.The closure device includes at least one hold-open mechanism, via which the first and second closure parts are locked in the open position, and which counteracts a displacement of the first and second closure parts into the closed position, by means of a holding force.