Push Tab Vial Assembly Child-Resistant Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pill containers with child lock capabilities are not sufficiently secure against access by children, as they can be easily opened by young children due to lack of robust locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A push tab container assembly with a locking member featuring a ramped surface and tapered locking edges, combined with a lid having internal and external threads and a locking lug, which requires a coordinated effort to unlock, providing a child-resistant mechanism that is harder to defeat than prior art locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple lid and container combination is used, then ease of operation is improved, but child resistance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states through dynamic movement of the locking member along the ramped surface. The push tab assembly dynamically changes the position of the locking member from engaged with the locking lug (locked) to disengaged (unlocked), providing both security and ease of opening when proper force is applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking edge geometry is changed from a simple edge to a tapered surface that transitions from radially outward to radially inward. This parameter change in the locking edge geometry creates a ramped surface that requires specific force application (pushing the tab while rotating) to overcome, providing child resistance while remaining operable by adults.
2Reliability
If a robust locking mechanism with tapered edges and ramped surfaces is implemented, then child resistance is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and threading functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The locking member with its tapered locking edge works in conjunction with the threaded engagement between lid and container. The push tab assembly combines both the actuation function and the locking member actuation, reducing the need for separate complex components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member serves multiple functions: it provides the locking engagement with the locking lug, creates the ramped surface for controlled disengagement, and works with the threaded engagement system. The push tab assembly simultaneously provides user engagement surface and actuates the locking member, reducing overall device complexity through multi-functionality.
3Reliability
If dual threading (internal and external) is used on the lid, then reliability of locking is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The threading is segmented into two distinct systems: internal threads on the lid that engage with external threads on the container, and the separate locking mechanism with the locking member and locking lug. This segmentation allows each threading system to be optimized independently for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing approach.
Data Source
AI summary
A push tab container assembly includes a container and a lid configured to mate with the container in an unlocked state and in a locked state. The container includes a push tab assembly having a locking member defining a ramped surface and ending at a locking edge. The locking edge is vertically oriented with respect to the ramped surface and is tapered as it extends radially inwardly. The container has exactly one external container thread positioned on an external surface and at least one internal thread positioned on an internal surface. The lid has at least one locking lug positioned on an internal surface of a second skirt. The locking lug has a lug edge that tapers as it extends radially inwardly. When the lid is operably oriented relative to the container in the unlocked state, the external lid thread is mated with the internal container thread. When the lid is operably oriented relative to the container in the locked state, the internal lid thread is mated with the exactly one external container thread, while the locking edge of the locking member is engaged against the lug edge of the locking lug. The push tab assembly is actuatable to release the locking edge of the locking member from the lug edge of the locking lug to permit disengagement of the lid from the container.