Pivoting Clamp Closure for Flexible Bag Reclosure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure devices for flexible bags used in microbial and fungal cultivation are difficult to use, prone to loss, and lack the ability to be easily reopened and resealed, especially when sterilization is required.
Innovation Solution
A reusable closure device with elongated clamp members that can be sterilized, featuring a U-shaped upper clamp and a flat lower clamp that pivot together to securely close the open end of a flexible bag, allowing for easy access and reclosure without the need for a sealing machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heat or ultrasonic welding is used to seal the bag opening, then the seal is effective, but the bag cannot be reclosed and requires a sealing machine
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is divided into two separate clamp members that can be independently manipulated. One clamp member remains attached to the bag while the other is removed and reused for reclosure, enabling the bag to be opened and closed multiple times while maintaining seal integrity
Solution Approach 2:
One clamp member is temporarily discarded (removed from the bag) to allow access to the bag contents, then recovered and reused to reclose the bag. This allows the seal to be broken and reformed multiple times without requiring a sealing machine
2Reliability
If a cylindrical rod or tubing with C-shaped clamp member is used, then the bag can be closed, but insertion and removal of the rod is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp members are designed to pivot from a closed position (where they clamp the bag) to an open position (where they release the bag). This dynamic movement allows easy insertion and removal without forcing the rod through the clamp, improving operability while maintaining secure closure
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device is segmented into two separate clamp members connected by a hinge, allowing one member to pivot independently. This enables the clamp to open and close smoothly without requiring forceful insertion or removal of a rigid rod
3Ease of operation
If two separate clamp members are used, then the closure can function, but one piece may become lost or separated
Solution Approach 1:
The two clamp members are merged into a single integrated unit through a hinge connection. This ensures that both clamp members remain attached to each other and cannot become lost or separated, while still allowing them to function independently in the closing action
4Reliability
If a sealing machine is used to seal the bag, then the seal is effective, but the sealing machine must be located at the bag position
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp members themselves perform the sealing function by mechanically clamping the bag opening shut. This self-service closure mechanism eliminates the need for a separate sealing machine, reducing device complexity while maintaining effective closure
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp members act as intermediaries between the user and the bag closure. Instead of requiring a complex sealing machine at the bag location, the simple clamp members provide the closure function, reducing the need for specialized equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A closure device for a flexible bag includes an elongated first clamp member having a channel and an elongated second clamp member that is configured as a blade that is receivable within the channel. The clamp members are pivotally coupled at a proximal end the clamp members to be pivoted between open and closed positions in a scissor-like fashion. The lower end of the second clamp projects a distance from the opening of the channel when the second clamp member is fully received within the channel when the closure device is in the closed position. The closure device facilitates closing the opening of the flexible bag by folding the open end of the flexible bag around at least the upper end of the second clamp member when the closure device is in the open position. The closure device is moved to the closed position so that the open end of the flexible bag is retained in the folded position when the closure device is in the closed position to effectively close off the opening of the flexible bag.