Securing Collar Segmentation for Dispenser Recycling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fixing rings for dispensers make it difficult to recycle dispenser components as they require destruction for dismantling, and there is no easy method to remove the ring without unscrewing it, which complicates the recycling process.
Innovation Solution
A fixing ring with hidden breaking means that are not functional during normal use but can be easily broken by an automated machine, allowing for controlled separation of the ring from the dispenser, enabling easy recycling without increasing component parts or complicating manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a permanent fixing ring (crimping or snap-fastening) is used to secure the dispenser, then the fixing strength is improved, but the ease of dismantling for recycling deteriorates as it requires destroying the fixing ring
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing ring is segmented into two functional parts: a strong fixing portion that provides permanent securing, and a weakened breaking portion with reduced wall thickness that allows easy separation. This segmentation enables the ring to provide both strong fixing during use and easy dismantling for recycling by applying force to the breaking portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring has non-uniform wall thickness with a localized weakened portion that has reduced thickness compared to the main body. This local quality change creates a specific breaking point that requires minimal force to separate, while the rest of the ring maintains its structural integrity and fixing strength during normal operation.
2Ease of operation
If a screw-on fixing ring is used to allow easy removal, then the ease of dismantling is improved, but the fixing strength deteriorates as it may not provide permanent securing
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing ring is segmented into a strong fixing portion that provides permanent securing through crimping or snap-fastening, and a weakened breaking portion that allows easy separation. This segmentation enables the ring to provide both strong fixing during use and easy dismantling for recycling by applying force to the breaking portion.
3Ease of operation
If the fixing ring is made completely breakable for easy recycling, then the ease of dismantling is improved, but the reliability deteriorates as accidental breakage during normal use may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The ring has non-uniform wall thickness with a localized weakened portion that has reduced thickness compared to the main body. This local quality change creates a specific breaking point that requires minimal force to separate, while the rest of the ring maintains its structural integrity and fixing strength during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The weakened portion acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the strong fixing requirement and the easy dismantling requirement. It serves as a controlled weak point that prevents accidental breakage under normal loads while allowing intentional separation when recycling is needed.
4Ease of operation
If breaking means are added to the fixing ring to enable easy separation, then the ease of dismantling is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ring has non-uniform wall thickness with a localized weakened portion that has reduced thickness compared to the main body. This local quality change creates a specific breaking point that requires minimal force to separate, while the rest of the ring maintains its structural integrity and fixing strength during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The breaking function is merged into the ring structure itself through the weakened portion, rather than adding separate breaking mechanisms. The varying wall thickness is integrated during molding to create both the fixing structure and the breaking point in a single component, avoiding additional parts.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Securing collar (3'') for mounting a dispensing member (2), such as a pump or a valve, on the neck (11) of a container (1) to constitute a dispenser of fluid product, the collar comprising: accommodating means capable fixedly of accommodating the dispensing member (2); and securing means able to engage with the neck (11), characterized in that frangible means (35) are provided between the accommodating means and the securing means so as to separate the accommodating means from the securing means so that the dispensing member (2) can be removed from the container (1).