PET Closure Deformation for Fluid-Tight Container Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging systems require cooperating screw threads or equivalent mechanisms for attaching closure elements to containers, which can be inefficient and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A packaging system using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) components with shape- and size-adapted attachment means that deform permanently by punching or rolling to create a secure, fluid-tight connection between the container and closure, potentially combined with ultrasonic sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw threads or equivalent mechanisms are used for attaching closure elements to containers, then the attachment can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes inefficient and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical screw thread systems with a deformation-based attachment system. The closure element is permanently deformed (by punching or rolling) to create an interference fit with the container opening, eliminating the need for threaded mechanisms and achieving both high reliability and assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the closure element through permanent deformation. By applying localized deformation (punching or rolling) to specific regions of the closure, the material properties are altered to create a secure mechanical interlock with the container, improving both attachment reliability and assembly speed.
2Strength
If permanent deformation by punching or rolling is applied to create secure attachment, then strong connection is achieved, but material cracking or whitening may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies deformation only to local regions of the closure element rather than the entire structure. By concentrating the punching or rolling operation on specific attachment zones, the closure achieves sufficient attachment strength while minimizing the risk of widespread material cracking or whitening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses controlled partial deformation of the closure element. The deformation is applied to the extent necessary to create a secure mechanical interlock, but is carefully limited to avoid excessive action that would cause material failure, cracking, or whitening in non-critical areas.
3Ease of manufacture
If the groove wall is made thin to facilitate deformation, then ease of deformation is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates local variations in wall thickness, making the groove wall thinner only in the regions where deformation is required for attachment. The rest of the closure structure maintains sufficient thickness to preserve overall structural integrity while enabling easy deformation at the attachment zones.
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 deformation method provides a strong, permanent attachment that prevents detachment under mechanical stress, equivalent in security to heat sealing, while avoiding material cracking or whitening by maintaining thin, flexible deformation.
Implementation Method 1
at least the second attachment means are made of PET or PEN and adapted in shape and size to deform permanently by punching or rolling to link both attachment means
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a packaging (1) comprising a container (2) with a container body (5), and a container opening (6) having an upper edge (7), and a closure (4) for closing said container, the container (2) and the closure (4) being made out of polyethylene terephtalate (PET), polyethylene naphtalate (PEN), or a combination thereof, said container and said closure comprising respectively first (8) and second (9) attachment means, characterized in that: (i) the attachment means (8, 9) are adapted in shape and size to cooperate with each other, and (ii) at least the second attachment means (8) is made of PET or PEN and adapted in shape and size to deform permanently by punching or rolling to link both attachment means, and create a permanent, preferably fluid-tight, arrangement between said container (2) and said closure (4).