Pump Refill Packaging Ring for Secure Yet Removable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetic packaging devices with refill systems face challenges in maintaining aesthetic appeal while ensuring easy and reliable replacement of refills without accidental detachment, particularly when handling the pump dispenser.
Innovation Solution
A packaging device with a temporary joining mechanism using an intermediate ring with deformable projecting elements that provide frictional retention, allowing easy insertion and removal of refills, while preventing accidental release, and featuring a pump dispenser system with a movable pushbutton.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a temporary joining mechanism is used to allow easy removal of the refill, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of retention deteriorates (risk of accidental detachment)
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediate ring is introduced as a mediator component between the refill and the case. This ring features an internal friction grip zone that actively retains the refill through friction forces, while the external surface provides a smooth interface for user handling. The intermediary ring thus decouples the retention function from the handling function, allowing easy removal when intentionally pulled while maintaining reliable retention during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate ring is designed with differentiated local qualities: the internal surface possesses high friction characteristics through a friction grip zone with deformable projecting elements, while the external surface maintains smooth aesthetic qualities. This local differentiation allows the same component to simultaneously provide strong retention forces internally while presenting a user-friendly external interface, resolving the contradiction between easy operation and reliable retention.
2Ease of manufacture
If the case is designed to be reusable and aesthetically appealing, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the device complexity increases (need for reliable temporary joining mechanism)
Solution Approach 1:
The joining mechanism is segmented into distinct functional zones within the intermediate ring: a friction grip zone with deformable projecting elements for active retention, and smooth external/aesthetic zones for appearance and handling. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized for its specific function while being manufactured as an integrated ring component, balancing complexity with manufacturability.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate ring utilizes parameter changes in material properties through its deformable projecting elements that can elastically deform under compression to engage the refill, then maintain constant friction forces during retention. This elastic deformation capability allows the ring to adapt to the refill dimensions while providing consistent retention forces, simplifying the overall joining mechanism design.
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 device ensures reliable retention of the refill, maintains aesthetic appeal, and facilitates easy handling and replacement, reducing the risk of accidental detachment during use.
Implementation Method 1
the intermediate ring having on its radially inner face at least partially deformable projecting elements able to interact with an external holding surface of the refill
Implementation Method 2
in the insertion position, the refill is held by friction by the intermediate ring
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging device, of longitudinal axis, is for a cosmetic product refill fitted with a pump dispenser system. The device includes a case provided with a cavity for accommodating the refill. The refill can be removably fixed to the open end of the case by a temporary joining mechanism between an insertion position and a taken-out position. The temporary joining mechanism includes an intermediate ring having on its radially inner face at least partially deformable projecting elements able to interact with an external holding surface of the refill.