Snap Closure System With Integrated Wedge Seal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap closure systems for containers require two operations to close and open, involving a locking device and a seal, with the entire locking element needing destruction to open, limiting reuse and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A snap closure system featuring a locking element, support element, and a bracket-shaped spring element with a wedge-shaped projection and a receiving opening for a seal, allowing simultaneous closing and opening by utilizing a bow-shaped spring element and a seal with a predetermined breaking point for secure hold and easy separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device and seal are used separately requiring two operations for closing and opening, then the sealing and locking functions are achieved, but the operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element and seal are merged into a single integrated closure component. The locking element includes a locking protrusion that engages with a locking recess, while the seal is positioned such that its free end extends beyond the container rim. This integration allows the locking and sealing operations to occur simultaneously in one action, eliminating the need for separate operations required by traditional separate locking devices and seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is pre-positioned within the closure element before the locking action. The seal's free end is already extended beyond the container rim in a ready state, so when the closure is actuated, the sealing action occurs automatically as part of the locking process, eliminating the need for a separate sealing operation after locking.
2Reliability
If the entire locking element must be destroyed to open the sealed and locked lid, then the seal cannot be removed, but the locking element cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is segmented into functional components: the locking element with locking protrusion, the seal with predetermined breaking point, and the support element. The seal is designed with a predetermined breaking point that allows it to be separated from the locking element through controlled fracturing. This segmentation enables the locking element to be reused after the seal is replaced, as only the seal needs to be destroyed at the predetermined breaking point, not the entire locking element.
3Reliability
If the seal is inserted through aligned bores in lid and container rim, then secure hold is provided, but the seal may slip through the hole
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is designed with a predetermined breaking point and the locking element includes a locking protrusion that engages with a locking recess. The seal's free end extends beyond the container rim, creating a mechanical stop that prevents slipping. The locking protrusion and recess work together to prevent the seal from being pulled through the aligned bores, providing preliminary anti-action against the harmful effect of seal slipping before it can occur.
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
Enables secure closure and single-operation opening, preventing seal slipping and ensuring efficient use of the closure system, with the ability to ship contents securely and open at the customer's end without damaging the locking element.
Implementation Method 1
a bracket-shaped spring element (4) connecting the locking element (2) and the support element (3)
Implementation Method 2
the locking element (2) has a projection (5) tapering in the shape of a wedge, which is seated on a shaft (6)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The fastener (1) has a locking element (2) for connecting a cover and an edge of a box, and a support element (3) attached at the cover. A clamp-like spring element (4) connects the locking element and the support element, where the locking element has a wedge-shaped projection (5) that projects in a direction of the support element. The support element has a retaining opening (12) for an anchor-shaped seal, where the opening is arranged such that the opening is aligned with a continuous borehole in the cover and the edge of the box when the box is closed.