Spindle Button Locking Lid for Single-Handed Container Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional beverage containers require two hands to open due to threaded connections or interference fits, limiting single-handed operation.
Innovation Solution
A vessel with a locking lid featuring a spindle button and actuator gear system that allows vertical sliding engagement, enabling one-handed operation without threaded connections, using a spring-biased mechanism to alternate locking arm positions for secure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If threaded connection or interference fit is used for lid closure, then secure sealing is achieved, but two hands are required to open
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: locking arms that engage with the container, a spindle button for actuation, and an actuator gear for motion conversion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling single-handed operation while maintaining secure sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic locking mechanism with movable locking arms that can engage and disengage. The spring-biased mechanism provides automatic return motion, creating a dynamic system that is easier to operate with one hand while maintaining reliable sealing when locked.
2Ease of operation
If spring-biased mechanism is used for automatic locking arm return, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-biased mechanism automatically returns the locking arms to the locked position after opening, without requiring manual intervention. The spring stores energy during opening and releases it to automatically re-engage the locking arms, making the system self-service and easier to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates in periodic cycles: pressing the button opens the lid, releasing it allows the spring to automatically close and lock the lid. This periodic action between manual actuation and automatic return simplifies the user interaction while managing internal complexity through rhythmic mechanical cycles.
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 single-handed opening and closing of the container while maintaining a fluid-tight seal, enhancing user convenience and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is wrapped around the spindle body and biases the spindle body upwardly
Data Source
AI summary
A vessel with a locking lid has a spindle button. The spindle but has downwardly facing button teeth. The lid frame receives the spindle button in a vertical sliding configuration. The actuator gear is mounted under the spindle button in the lid frame. The actuator gear engages the downwardly facing button teeth. The spindle button is configured to move the actuator gear by one step when the spindle button is pressed down. A lid frame inside surface has an upper engagement and a lower engagement. The actuator gear is configured to alternate between the upper engagement and the lower engagement when the actuator gear moves by one step. A spindle body abuts and is biased upwardly against the actuator gear. The spindle body actuates locking arms mounted on locking arm pivots formed on the spindle body.