Recyclable Jar Assembly With Hidden Threads and Detachable Parts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current consumer product jars, such as those for makeup, creams, and emulsions, are difficult to recycle due to their complex construction, often involving multiple materials like PET plastic, glass, and metal, leading to increased environmental impact from improper disposal.
Innovation Solution
A jar assembly comprising an aluminum base and lid assembly with mating threads hidden from view, allowing for easy detachment and recyclability, with optional plastic components that can be easily removed, and coated or anodized surfaces for aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If jars are constructed with multiple materials (PET plastic, glass, metal) to achieve aesthetic appeal and functionality, then the jar appearance and performance are improved, but the recyclability deteriorates due to difficulty in separating materials
Solution Approach 1:
The jar is divided into separate components (lid assembly and jar assembly) that can be easily detached from each other. Each component is made from a single material type, allowing them to be separated for recycling. The lid assembly includes an outer cap and inner cap that can be removed independently, while the jar assembly includes a base and inner cup that are also separable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the threading mechanism from the visible exterior and places it on removable inner components (inner cap and inner cup). This allows the aesthetic outer surfaces to be smooth and simple while maintaining functional threading capabilities through the extracted inner components that can be easily removed and recycled separately.
2Reliability
If jars use complex multi-material construction to maintain functionality and appearance, then product performance is improved, but the ease of recycling deteriorates as consumers default to trash disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The jar is segmented into distinct functional components that can be separated: the lid assembly (outer cap, inner cap, liner), the jar assembly (base, inner cup), and sealing elements. Each segment maintains its functionality when separated, allowing consumers to easily detach and recycle individual components according to material type without compromising the product's protective and containment functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables easy discarding of specific components (inner cup, liner, inner cap) that come into contact with products, while the durable outer components (outer cap, base) can be recovered and reused. The threading mechanisms are designed to allow straightforward separation, facilitating the discarding of contaminated inner components and recovery of clean outer components for recycling or reuse.
3Reliability
If jars are designed with visible threads and complex structures to ensure secure sealing, then sealing reliability is improved, but the aesthetic appeal deteriorates due to visible mechanical features
Solution Approach 1:
The threading mechanism is extracted from the outer visible surfaces and relocated to the inner components (inner cap and inner cup). The outer cap and base have smooth, aesthetically pleasing surfaces without visible threads, while the functional threading is contained within the removable inner components that are not visible when the jar is assembled and in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner cap and inner cup are nested within the outer cap and base respectively. The threading mechanisms are nested within the inner components, which are themselves nested within the outer aesthetic components. This nested structure allows the functional elements to be hidden within the aesthetic elements, maintaining both sealing reliability and visual appeal.
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
Enhances recyclability and aesthetic appeal while maintaining functionality, reducing environmental impact by simplifying the recycling process and promoting proper disposal.
Implementation Method 1
the strip of material is formed into a hoop/ring structure with the first and second ends engaging each other, and then bonded to the interior surface of the cylindrical sidewall of the outer cap
Implementation Method 2
coating the interior surfaces of the jar assembly and/or anodizing an exterior surface of the jar
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to readily recyclable jars and lid assemblies for jars. The lid assembly may include an outer lid and either an inner lid or a hoop provided within the outer lid. A thread may be provided on the inner lid or hoop. A liner or seal may be provided.