Resealable Container Closure with Rocker Arm and Actuator Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container closure mechanisms fail to provide effective resealable solutions that minimize fluid leakage, necessitating improved resealable closure mechanisms for containers.
Innovation Solution
A resealable cap mechanism incorporating a cap cover with a rocker arm and actuator tab, or a push button tab with a spring and O-ring, designed to securely mate with the cap cover, minimizing leakage by using materials like rubber, plastic, or silicone for the mouthpiece plug and detents for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional closure mechanism (screw-on cap, flip cap) is used, then the container can be opened and closed, but fluid leakage occurs and resealability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism employs a dynamic rocker arm that can pivot between sealed and open positions, allowing the plug to dynamically adjust its position relative to the aperture. This dynamic movement enables effective sealing when closed while allowing easy access when opened, resolving the contradiction between reliable resealing and controlled access.
Solution Approach 2:
A rocker arm acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the actuator tab and the closure plug. This intermediary component translates user input (tab movement) into precise plug positioning, ensuring the plug reaches the correct sealed position without leakage while maintaining ease of operation.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a secure seal mechanism is implemented, then fluid leakage is minimized, but the complexity of the closure mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated closure assembly: the plug seals the aperture, the rocker arm provides both sealing leverage and positional control, and the actuator tab enables user operation. This consolidation achieves effective sealing without requiring multiple separate components, thus minimizing fluid leakage while controlling mechanism complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure plug is made from flexible materials such as rubber, plastic, soft plastic, foam, or silicone. This flexibility allows the plug to conform to the aperture shape and maintain a tight seal through elastic deformation, achieving reliable sealing with a simple plug design rather than complex mechanical sealing structures.
3Ease of operation
If a simple closure mechanism is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but effective sealing and leakage prevention are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the rocker arm geometry. When the user moves the actuator tab, the rocker arm automatically pivots and positions the plug to achieve sealing without requiring additional steps or forces. The mechanical advantage provided by the rocker arm ensures the plug reaches the sealed position reliably, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring effective sealing.
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 proposed solution effectively minimizes fluid leakage by ensuring a secure seal when closed and allowing easy access when opened, enhancing the usability and reliability of container closures.
Implementation Method 1
a spring and O-ring are positioned on the actuator post between the rocker arm and the push button tab
Implementation Method 2
a spring and O-ring are positioned on the actuator post between the rocker arm and the push button tab
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a container including a reseal-able closure mechanism having a rocker arm and a pull tab or actuator button.