Multi-Part Jar Cap Assembly for Clean Applicator Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jars with caps expose contents and applicators to the exterior, leading to contamination and require users to remove the cap to estimate remaining contents.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part cap assembly with a transparent upper cap allowing visual inspection of contents and a separable applicator to prevent contamination, featuring a lower and upper cap with a transparent lid surface and a removable applicator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cap assembly is made as a single integrated piece, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to prevent contamination and allow visual inspection is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cap assembly is divided into multiple independent components: a lower cap that attaches to the container, an upper cap that attaches to the lower cap, and an applicator that can be inserted and removed. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the lower cap provides structural support and attachment, the upper cap with its transparent window enables visual inspection, and the applicator can be sterilized separately and inserted through a dedicated opening, thereby preventing contamination while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure - the transparent window in the upper cap that acts as a mediator between the user and the container contents. This window allows visual inspection of the contents without requiring the user to remove the cap assembly, thereby preventing contamination while still providing the necessary information. The dedicated applicator opening also serves as an intermediary pathway that separates the applicator insertion function from the sealing function
2Loss of information
If the cap is removed to estimate contents, then visual inspection is possible, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparent window is built into the upper cap structure as a preliminary feature, allowing users to inspect the contents before making any decisions about usage or disposal. This preliminary visual inspection capability eliminates the need to remove the cap assembly to check contents, thereby preventing contamination while maintaining full visibility of the container contents through the integrated transparent portion
3Ease of operation
If the applicator remains exposed to the exterior, then ease of operation is improved, but contamination of contents occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is segmented from the cap assembly and designed as a separate insertable component. The lower cap includes a dedicated opening that allows the applicator to be inserted into the container contents without exposing the applicator handle or upper cap to the exterior environment. This segmentation enables the applicator to be sterilized separately and inserted through a controlled pathway, maintaining ease of operation while preventing contamination of the contents
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is extracted from the traditional integrated cap design and positioned as a separate component that can be inserted into the container. This extraction allows the applicator to be handled and sterilized separately before insertion, and the insertion pathway through the lower cap opening separates the applicator introduction function from the sealing function, thereby preventing contamination while maintaining operational ease
Data Source
AI summary
A container including a multi-part cap assembly including upper and lower caps and an applicator for applying creams, gels, ointments, powders, and/or cosmetics, and/or adapted for massaging, cleaning, and/or exfoliating the skin of a human, is shown and described.