Push-Turn Closure System for Child-Resistant Container Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closures do not effectively provide a child-resistant mechanism that requires multiple user inputs for opening, making them unsafe for storing hazardous materials accessible to children.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece closure system comprising an inner and outer shell, where the outer shell is movable between a disengaged and engaged position, requiring a downward push and rotational motion to open, ensuring that the inner shell is securely attached to the container, providing a child-resistant push-and-turn mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple closure is used, then ease of operation is improved, but child resistance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is divided into two functional segments: an outer shell that rotates and an inner shell that threads. This segmentation allows the closure to require two distinct operations (rotation followed by threading) to open, providing child resistance while maintaining ease of operation for adults who can perform both steps sequentially
Solution Approach 2:
The closure transitions from a static single-step design to a dynamic multi-step design where the outer shell rotates independently before the inner shell can be threaded. This dynamic sequence of movements ensures that children cannot simply pull or twist the closure open, as the mechanical steps are designed to be too complex for small hands while remaining manageable for adults
2Reliability
If a child-resistant mechanism requiring multiple inputs is implemented, then child resistance is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The inner shell is nested within the outer shell, with the inner shell containing the threading mechanism and the outer shell containing the rotation mechanism. This nesting allows both functional elements to be integrated into a single compact closure unit, providing child resistance through multi-step operation without creating excessive device complexity or requiring separate components
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 closure system effectively prevents accidental opening by children by requiring two distinct user inputs, ensuring the container remains secure until intentional and correct operation, thereby safeguarding contents within.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one petal may be deformed when subject to the first user input
Data Source
AI summary
A closure for a container, and more specifically a closure that is selectively openable and/or lockable providing, for example, one or more child resistant opening features is disclosed.