Peelable Resealable Membrane Without Disposable Overcaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional membranes for containers with metal ends are not resealable, leading to unnecessary waste and increased production costs due to the need for disposable overcaps to reclose the container.
Innovation Solution
A peelable and resealable membrane system comprising multiple layers, including a tacky layer and a heat seal layer, which can be permanently sealed to a metal end, allowing the membrane to be peeled back for access and resealed without an overcap, utilizing a method of coextruding layers and applying pressure to secure the membrane to the metal end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional membrane is used to close the container opening, then the container can be sealed initially, but the membrane cannot be resealable after opening, requiring disposable overcaps
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane incorporates a tacky layer with specific adhesive properties that allow it to stick to itself when resealed. The layer undergoes parameter changes in its adhesive characteristics, maintaining tackiness at use temperatures while allowing for controlled peeling and resealing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane is constructed as a composite structure with multiple functional layers: an outer layer for structural integrity, a barrier layer for protection, and a tacky layer for resealability. This composite design combines materials with different properties to achieve both initial sealing and subsequent resealing capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If a disposable overcap is used to reclose the container after opening, then the container can be reclosed, but production costs increase and waste is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane performs multiple functions: it serves as the initial closure, allows for opening and access, and then functions as a reclosure mechanism through its tacky layer. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate overcaps, reducing both cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane's tacky layer enables the membrane itself to perform the reclosing function without requiring additional components. The membrane serves itself by adhering to itself when resealed, eliminating the need for external overcaps or additional sealing mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the membrane is made peelable for initial opening, then access to the container is enabled, but the membrane loses its sealing capability after peeling
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane is divided into functionally distinct layers: an outer layer that provides structural integrity and allows for peeling, and an inner tacky layer that maintains sealing capability. The segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while working together to enable both peeling and resealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane transitions between different states: initially sealed, then peeled open, and finally resealable. The tacky layer maintains dynamic adhesive properties that allow it to transition from a sealed state to an open state and back to a sealed state, providing dynamic functionality throughout the product lifecycle.
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 membrane effectively reduces waste and production costs by allowing for multiple openings and closings without the need for an overcap, maintaining a secure seal and being applicable to various container materials and manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
The heat seal layer is permanently sealed to the metal end to close the at least one opening
Implementation Method 2
the tacky layer allows the peelable membrane to be resealable onto the metal end
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a peelable membrane for resealably closing a metal end comprising an outer layer, a tacky layer, and a heat seal layer. The heat seal layer is permanently sealed to the metal end to cover at least one opening in the metal end. The tacky layer causes the peelable membrane to be resealable onto the metal end.