Shielded Container Lid With Translational Snap-Lock
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation-protective containers for transporting and storing radioactive substances have complex locking mechanisms that require operators to firmly hold the container body during opening and closing, exposing them to negligible but non-zero levels of radiation.
Innovation Solution
A shielded container design featuring a lid that can be quickly locked and unlocked via a translational movement along the axis of the opening, utilizing retractable protruding lugs that snap into place and are deactivated using a magnetic handle or mechanical handle, allowing for easy operation without prolonged handling of the container body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking means are used to secure the lid on the container body, then the container provides reliable radiation protection, but the locking mechanism becomes complex and requires operators to firmly hold the container body during operation, increasing radiation exposure time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into independent retractable protruding lugs that can be individually activated. Each lug engages with a corresponding recess in the container body, allowing the locking function to be distributed across multiple simple components rather than requiring a complex integrated mechanism. This segmentation enables the lid to be locked securely through simple translational movement while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static, complex multi-component system to a dynamic system where protruding lugs can be rapidly deployed and retracted through translational movement of the lid. The lugs move between engaged and disengaged states, providing reliable locking when needed while allowing quick release when the deactivation means is activated, thereby reducing operator exposure time.
2Reliability
If traditional locking means are used, then the container remains secure, but the operator must maintain firm contact with the container body for extended periods, increasing radiation exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding lugs are pre-positioned on the lid such that when the lid is placed over the container body, the lugs automatically align with and engage the recesses through simple translational movement. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for complex manual manipulation during locking, allowing rapid securement and reducing the time operators are exposed to radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical locking systems with a simpler system based on geometric engagement between protruding lugs and recesses. The locking action is achieved through translational movement rather than multiple mechanical steps, significantly reducing the time required to secure or open the container and thereby minimizing operator radiation exposure.
3Device complexity
If the lid is simply placed on the opening without locking means, then the container structure is simple, but the lid may become dislodged, compromising radiation protection
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding lugs are designed with asymmetric geometry that allows easy engagement in one direction (translational movement of the lid) but prevents disengagement without specific deactivation action. The lugs feature a cam surface that guides them into the recesses during closing, while the deactivation means must apply force in a specific direction to retract them, providing secure retention while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding lugs are nested within the lid structure, and the recesses are nested within the container body opening. When the lid is closed, the lugs engage with the recesses in a nested configuration that provides secure mechanical interlocking. This nested arrangement achieves reliable lid retention through simple geometric features without adding external complexity to the overall container structure.
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 solution simplifies and speeds up the locking process, reduces operator exposure to radiation, and enhances safety by requiring additional action to open the lid, while maintaining effective radiation protection through a nested structure of tungsten and lead with a plastic outer shell for added durability and protection.
Implementation Method 1
the deactivation member can be maneuvered into the deactivation position, corresponding to the retracted position of the hooks, by application by the operator of a magnetic field generated by means of a magnetic handle attached to said cover
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to a container for transporting a receptacle (2) containing a radioactive substance for medical use. This container (1 ) comprises on the one hand a shielded body (3) made up of a belt of side walls (3a) connected to a base element (3b) and defining a top opening (4), and on the other hand a shielded closing lid (5) attachable to said top opening (4) by locking means (1 1 ). In accordance with the invention, the locking means (1 1 ) are shaped so as to be activated by a translational movement (22) of the lid (5) in the top opening (4), this being termed the "locking movement" and taking place along the axis of said opening (4) and towards the opposing base element (3b); and this lid (5) is further equipped with means (16) for deactivating said locking means (11 ) in order to enable it to be separated from said container body (3). In one advantageous embodiment, the lid (5) has a plurality of retractable projecting studs (11 ) designed to fit by a snap-action type phenomenon into at least one complementary housing (21 ) formed in the opening (4) of the container body (3) during the locking movement.