Preform Finish Support Flange Structure for Leak-Free Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing preforms with larger finishes, particularly those made of high-density polyethylene, experience deflection of the support flange during the forming and filling process, leading to leakage and inconsistent sealing with the forming/filling head, which affects the ability to maintain pressure and definition in the container.
Innovation Solution
The preform design includes a support flange with an undersurface having a larger radial area than the upper surface, aligned opposite to the brim, providing reinforcement to prevent deformation and ensure a consistent seal with the forming/filling head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support flange with equal radial areas on upper and undersurfaces is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the support flange deflects into the mold during forming, causing leakage and inconsistent sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The support flange is designed with non-uniform radial areas: the undersurface has a larger radial area than the upper surface. This local differentiation provides enhanced support directly opposite the brim where it is needed most to prevent deflection into the mold, while maintaining simplicity elsewhere in the structure.
2Reliability
If the support flange has a larger radial area on the undersurface, then deflection into the mold is prevented and sealing consistency is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radial area parameter of the support flange is changed from being uniform (equal areas) to being non-uniform (larger undersurface area). This parameter modification prevents deflection into the mold during forming while maintaining compatibility with existing manufacturing processes for extruding and forming the preform.
Data Source
AI summary
A finish of a preform and a container formed from the preform. The finish has a brim defining an opening of the finish. The brim is configured to provide a sealing surface with a forming and filling head for forming the container from the preform and filling the container with a product. A support flange extends from an outer side surface of the finish. The support flange includes an undersurface having an inner portion that is directly opposite to the brim. The inner portion of the undersurface of the support flange is closer to an axial center of the finish than an innermost portion of the outer side surface.