Over-Center Closure Latch for Leak-Proof Liquid Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current closure mechanisms for liquid containers, such as push/pull spouts and flip tops, are not secure and tend to leak over time due to reliance on friction, making them inadequate for outdoor activities where spillage is a concern.
Innovation Solution
An integrated over center latching assembly with pivot mounts and linkage mechanisms that pivot, rotate, or translate to create a sealed position, using pressure and compression to secure the cap over the spout, providing a secure and leak-proof seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If push/pull spouts or flip top mechanisms are used for selective dispensing, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to insufficient sealing under pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is divided into functionally independent segments: a spout assembly for dispensing and a separate over-center latching mechanism for sealing. This segmentation allows the spout to remain open for easy dispensing while the latching mechanism independently provides reliable sealing by engaging with the container neck, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and sealing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure employs a dynamic over-center latching mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The latch engages with the container neck to provide secure sealing when closed, and can be easily disengaged by applying force to the tab for opening. This dynamic state change allows the closure to maintain high reliability when sealed while remaining easy to operate when opening.
2Device complexity
If friction-based sealing mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability worsens due to leakage over time from component wear
Solution Approach 1:
The closure separates the sealing function from the dispensing function. The over-center latching mechanism provides a mechanical interlock between the closure and container neck, independent of friction-based seals. This segmentation allows a simple structural design to achieve high reliability through positive mechanical engagement rather than relying on friction that degrades with wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The over-center latching mechanism creates a self-reinforcing locked state where the latch engages deeply with the container neck. This dynamic engagement provides a mechanical advantage that maintains secure sealing even under pressure or during extended use, preventing the reliability deterioration seen in static friction-based systems.
3Ease of operation
If friction-based outlet mechanisms are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates as components wear and leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure divides the outlet function from the sealing function. The spout provides easy access for dispensing while the over-center latching mechanism independently maintains consistent sealing. This segmentation ensures that wear on the spout components does not compromise sealing reliability, as the latching mechanism provides a separate, durable sealing path.
Solution Approach 2:
The over-center latching mechanism transitions to a self-reinforcing locked state that maintains consistent sealing pressure. This dynamic engagement compensates for component wear by providing a mechanical interlock that maintains sealing force, preventing the increasing leakage that occurs in static friction-based systems over time.
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 over center latching assembly ensures a secure and leak-proof seal, preventing spillage even under pressure or impact, and allows easy access to the contents without completely removing the closure.
Implementation Method 1
includes a biasing spring to maintain the open position
Implementation Method 2
over center leverage system... uses pressure and compression to hold the cap in place
Implementation Method 3
lever mechanism... over center latching assembly
Data Source
AI summary
Closures having an integrated over center latching assembly including an end wall, a skirt wall depending from the end wall, an outlet opening associated with the end wall and an over center latching assembly are disclosed. The over center latching assembly includes a link pivotally coupled to the closure at a first pivot point, a lever pivotally coupled to the link at a second pivot point, a closing member pivotally coupled to the closure at a third pivot point and pivotally coupled to the lever at a forth pivot point and a biasing spring coupled between the first pivot point and the fourth pivot point. The link and the lever are configured to move the over center latching assembly between a first position and a second position and the closing member is configured to close the outlet opening when the over center latching assembly is moved to the second position.