Sliding Pen Cap Assembly with Collapsible Adapter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ballpoint pen assemblies lack a cap that can easily cover and uncover the ink cartridge without being removed from the pen body, which is a feature not addressed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A pen system with a cover member and adapter that allows for a one-step assembly of a sliding, non-removable cap, utilizing a slit in the adapter to reduce its height for insertion and annular grooves and ridges to define open and closed positions, enabling the cap to be assembled inexpensively like standard pens with removable caps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional removable cap design is used, then the cap can be easily removed and reattached, but the assembly process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cap and adapter into a single integrated component that cannot be separated. The adapter is permanently attached to the cap, eliminating the need for separate cap removal and reattachment operations. This integration simplifies the overall assembly process while maintaining the functional benefit of cap mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic sliding mechanism where the cap can move along the pen body between extended and retracted positions. The annular grooves and ridges create discrete positional states (open and closed) that allow the cap to slide smoothly while maintaining controlled positioning, providing ease of operation without complex assembly.
2Device complexity
If a sliding non-removable cap is implemented, then assembly becomes simpler and more cost-effective, but the cap cannot be completely removed from the pen body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides dynamic movement capability through the sliding mechanism, allowing the cap to transition between extended (protruding from pen body) and retracted (inserted into pen body) positions. This dynamic positioning satisfies the need for cap accessibility while maintaining a simplified integrated assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The pen assembly is segmented into functional zones: the cap can slide to different positions (extended vs. retracted) relative to the pen body, creating distinct operational states. The annular grooves and ridges create discrete positioning segments that maintain structural integrity while allowing controlled movement and adaptability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the adapter height is reduced for easier insertion, then assembly becomes easier, but the adapter structure becomes more complex requiring a slit and collapse mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates a dynamic collapse mechanism that allows it to transition between expanded and compressed states. The slit in the adapter wall enables the material to flex and collapse during insertion, reducing the effective height temporarily. Once inserted, the adapter returns to its expanded stable configuration, providing ease of manufacture without permanent structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter's height parameter is dynamically changed during the insertion process. The slit allows the adapter to compress (reduce height) for insertion, then expand back to its original height after insertion. This temporary parameter change facilitates easier assembly while maintaining the structural integrity and form factor of the adapter in its operational state.
Data Source
AI summary
A pen system comprising a cover member joined to an adapter having an anterior end of an ink cartridge disposed therein is disclosed. A pen housing covers the ink cartridge and is sealed via a plug. In one embodiment, a slit divides a surface of the adapter to allow a collapse of the adapter, thus narrowing a height of the adapter, to allow insertion of the adapter into the cover member. A first and second annular groove are disposed at a center of the adapter, where each annular groove interfaces with a cover member annular ridge to define an open and closed position of the pen. In an alternate embodiment, an annular washer having an annular ridge is disposed in the cover member, in place of the cover member annular ridge, to interface with the first and second annular groove thus defining the open and closed positions of the pen.