Panel Interlocking Arrangement with Tamper-Evident Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging solutions for multi-packs lack a tamper-evident mechanism that securely locks panels together while minimizing material usage and ensuring strength for transporting heavy articles, and they do not effectively indicate if the package has been accessed.
Innovation Solution
A panel interlocking arrangement featuring male and female locking elements with angled cuts and hinged connections allows panels to securely overlap and lock, with a tamper-evident mechanism that indicates access by altering the panel configuration upon opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a locking mechanism is added to secure panels together, then the strength and security of the package is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into discrete components: a locking element with a head and shaft portions, and a corresponding receptacle with engagement features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to secure the panels, reducing overall complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is nested within the panel structure, with the locking element positioned in a recess or cavity of the panel. The receptacle is integrated into the adjacent panel. This nesting arrangement allows the locking mechanism to be contained within the panel geometry itself, minimizing additional material and structural complexity
2Loss of substance
If material usage is minimized to reduce cost and environmental impact, then the environmental friendliness and cost are improved, but the strength for transporting heavy articles may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism applies local reinforcement at the critical stress points where panels connect and overlap. Rather than strengthening the entire package structure, the locking element and receptacle provide targeted strength enhancement only where needed to secure the panels, maintaining overall material efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes composite construction by combining different material properties within the locking element and receptacle structures. The design incorporates rigid engagement features for strength and flexible or resilient portions for secure engagement, creating a composite-like structure that optimizes both strength and material usage
3Reliability
If a tamper-evident mechanism is added to indicate access, then the security and trust are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tamper-evident feature is designed to be activated automatically upon the first opening action of the package. The locking element or receptacle incorporates a visual indicator that transitions from a locked state to an unlocked state, providing preliminary evidence of tamper attempts without requiring additional active components or complex mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A panel interlocking arrangement for securing a pair of panels together comprising: first and second panels for placement in an overlapping position. The first and second panels are disposed at least in part in a face-contacting arrangement. A pair of locking elements are provided for locking engagement with each other to secure the first and second panels in the overlapping position. The pair of locking elements comprises a male locking element and female locking element. The female locking element is formed in the second panel and the male locking element is connected to the first panel.