Quick-Fastening Applicator Closure With Multi-Start Thread
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cosmetics applicator closures require multiple turns to secure tightly, making it difficult to ensure the applicator is properly fixed and sealed, especially when the container is subjected to shocks during transport.
Innovation Solution
A quick-fastening applicator closure system featuring a multi-start, steep-pitch threaded portion and additional retaining elements, such as latching projections and friction-enhancing wedges, allowing for secure fixation with a short rotary movement and preventing inadvertent opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fine threaded portion is used to secure the cover firmly onto the container neck, then the cover is securely retained and no cosmetic leaks out, but the user must perform multiple turns to screw the cover on, making it inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded portion is divided into multiple start threads (typically two or more) that are arranged circumferentially. This segmentation allows the cover to engage with the container neck through shorter rotational movements, reducing the number of turns required while maintaining secure retention through the distributed thread engagement points
Solution Approach 2:
The thread pitch and lead angle are optimized to create a steep-pitch threaded portion with a lead angle of at least 5 degrees. This parameter change reduces the rotational distance required for engagement while maintaining sufficient friction and mechanical interlocking for secure retention
2Reliability
If a long threaded portion is used to ensure firm screwing, then the cover is securely fastened, but the applicator cannot be positioned precisely and may rotate too far relative to the container
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple-start threaded structure creates discrete engagement points that limit the rotational movement of the applicator. Each thread start engages at specific angular positions, preventing excessive rotation while maintaining secure fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The user receives tactile feedback through the multi-start thread engagement, feeling distinct engagement points during rotation. This feedback mechanism allows the user to stop rotation at the appropriate position, ensuring precise applicator alignment while maintaining firm fastening
3Reliability
If additional retaining elements are added to prevent inadvertent opening, then the closure is securely retained under shock conditions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining elements are integrated into the existing closure structure, combining the sealing function with the retention function in a unified design. This reduces overall device complexity while maintaining security under shock conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining elements are designed to engage before shock conditions can cause inadvertent opening. The latching mechanism is positioned to prevent reverse movement or loosening that could occur during transportation shocks
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
Enables secure and convenient closure with minimal effort, ensuring the applicator remains fixed and sealed even under shock conditions, such as during transport in handbags or backpacks.
Implementation Method 1
a multi-start, preferably double-start, or in some cases even a triple-start short threaded portion is provided on at least one of the closure members. This is designed in such a way that the two closure members can be brought from a position in which the threads of the short threaded portion grip for the first time into a fully closed position with a rotary movement of less than or equal to a 3/8 rotation
Implementation Method 2
the friction between the threaded portion of the cover and of the container neck is sufficiently strong to ensure that the cover is not loosened inadvertently
Implementation Method 3
additional retaining elements are provided which hold the two closure members firmly against each other, once they have reached their fully closed position, in addition to the thread friction that is present anyway
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a quick-fastening applicator closure comprising a cap-side closure member and a container-side closure member which are twisted relative to one another in order to fix the applicator on the storage container associated with it. A multi-start, preferably double-start, short-threaded portion is provided on at least one of the closure members, whose threads are designed in such a way that the two closure members can be brought from a position in which the threads of the short threaded portion grip for the first time into a fully closed position with a rotary movement less than a ⅜ rotation relative to one another, with additional retaining elements being provided which hold the two closure members firmly against each other in addition to the thread friction that is present anyway, once they have reached their fully closed position.