Split Wall Cap Closure with Partial Threading and Locking Notches
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bottle closures are bulky and aesthetically unattractive due to their large size, which is necessary to accommodate 360-degree threading, and lack effective child-resistant mechanisms that are easy for adults to open but difficult for children.
Innovation Solution
A cap closure system with split arcuate walls and partial threading, featuring locking notches and protrusions that allow secure attachment to the bottle neck while enabling a smaller cap size, and a child-resistant mechanism that requires squeezing to unlock for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If 360-degree threading is used to secure the cap to the bottle, then the locking arrangement is secure and reliable, but the cap size becomes large and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous 360-degree threading is segmented into two separate partial threading sections (first and second partial threading) positioned at different locations on the cap. This segmentation allows the cap to achieve secure locking through distributed engagement points without requiring a large overall diameter, thus reducing cap size while maintaining locking reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of uniform threading distribution around the entire cap circumference, the threading is concentrated in specific localized regions (partial threading sections). This local quality approach allows the cap to engage securely with the bottle at critical points while minimizing the overall cap dimensions, resolving the contradiction between locking security and compact size
2Ease of operation
If a simple snap-on cap is used, then the cap is easy to open, but it lacks child-resistant properties and is difficult for elderly users
Solution Approach 1:
The cap incorporates a preliminary action mechanism where the user must first perform a squeezing motion to disengage the locking protrusions from the locking notches before the cap can be removed. This preliminary action creates a barrier that prevents accidental or unauthorized opening by children while still allowing intentional opening by adults who can apply the required squeezing force
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static snap-fit design to a dynamic system where the locking protrusions can move between engaged and disengaged states based on applied force. The flexible cap body deforms under squeezing to release the locks, then returns to its original shape to re-engage the locks automatically when normal conditions are restored, providing both ease of intentional operation and child resistance
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large cap size is used, then the opening can accommodate automated filling machines, but the container becomes bulky and aesthetically unattractive
Solution Approach 1:
The cap opening maintains its required large diameter for filling machine compatibility, while the cap body itself is segmented into a compact form with partial threading sections. This allows the functional opening size to be decoupled from the overall cap dimensions, enabling small, aesthetically pleasing cap design while preserving adaptability to automated filling equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A closure construction of the present invention includes a container with male threading on the neck thereof with a pair of locking notches. The cap includes a pair of split arcuate walls with partial threading thereon, which provides, in cooperation with each other, a threaded connection between the cap and the male threading disposed thereby releasably securing the cap to the container. A pair of protrusions are connected to and emanate inwardly from the inner surface of the outer wall. The pair of protrusions are releasably respectively seated in the pair of locking notches when the cap is threaded past a predetermined point onto the neck of the container. When the cap is squeezed in a direction generally perpendicular to a line running through the protrusions, the protrusions lift out of their respective locking notches to permit the cap to be unthreaded from the container.