Rotary Plug Cap with Integrated Snap Fit to Reduce Container Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing caps for containers, particularly those with retention tabs, increase the overall height of the container, making them inconvenient to carry and prone to deformation or breakage due to weak retention tabs.
Innovation Solution
A cap design featuring a rotary plug element with snap fit structures and a threaded coupling that allows switching between open and closed positions without removal, reducing the overall height and enhancing structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If retention tabs are arranged at the lower end of the plug structure to prevent loss, then the cap can be retained on the container, but the overall height of the container increases making it inconvenient to carry
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the retention function into the threaded coupling structure itself. The retention tabs are integrated with the plug structure's threading mechanism, allowing the same structural elements to perform both retention and height-reduction functions simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the retention mechanism from a vertical extension (tabs hanging down) to a radial integration (tabs within the threaded structure). This dimensional reorganization allows retention functionality to be achieved without increasing the container's overall height.
2Ease of operation
If retention tabs are made longer to ensure proper mounting and opening adapter size, then the mounting convenience is improved, but the strength of the retention tabs decreases making them easily deformed or broken
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded coupling structure provides preliminary mechanical engagement that pre-positions and supports the retention tabs during the mounting process. This preliminary action from the threads prevents the tabs from bearing excessive load before they are fully engaged, reducing deformation risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention function is segmented and distributed across multiple structural elements including the threaded coupling and integrated tabs. This segmentation allows the load to be distributed rather than concentrated on single long tabs, improving their strength while maintaining mounting convenience.
3Reliability
If a lid is separately arranged on the opening adapter to seal the opening, then the sealing function is improved, but the height of the container increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the sealing function into the cap's plug structure and threaded coupling mechanism. The seal is integrated into the cap body rather than being a separate lid component, allowing sealing functionality to be achieved without additional height.
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 cap design enables convenient pouring without removal, provides visual and tactile feedback, and reduces the container's height, making it more practical for carrying and use.
Implementation Method 1
the first snap fit structure and the second snap fit structure form a snap fit
Implementation Method 2
The rotary plug element is arranged in the body and forms a threaded coupling with the body
Data Source
AI summary
A cap and a container are provided. The cap includes a body and a rotary plug element. The rotary plug element is threadedly coupled in the body. The rotary plug element is provided with first threaded protrusions. The first threaded protrusions are each provided with a first snap fit structure. The body is provided with second threaded protrusions and second snap fit structures. The first snap fit structure and the second snap fit structure form a snap fit. The first snap fit structure is arranged at the first threaded protrusion.