Flexible Packaging Spout Cap Retention via Rotating Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The cap of flexible packaging with a spout is often lost or improperly disposed of due to its small size, posing environmental and usability issues.
Innovation Solution
A spout assembly with a connection device featuring a rotating ring and breakable bridges, along with a flexible strap, ensures the cap remains attached to the spout even after unscrewing, facilitating easy use and proper disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cap is made small and removable for easy opening, then ease of operation is improved, but the cap may be lost or improperly disposed of
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device is divided into separate functional elements: a ring that rotates independently, breakable bridges that connect the cap to the spout, and a strap that provides continuous attachment. This segmentation allows the cap to be easily removed for opening while ensuring it remains connected through the strap, preventing loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is pre-connected to the spout through breakable bridges and a strap before use. This preliminary connection ensures that when the cap is unscrewed, it automatically remains attached via the strap, preventing loss without interfering with the initial opening operation.
2Reliability
If the cap remains attached to the spout after unscrewing, then cap retention is improved, but the cap may interfere with spout operation
Solution Approach 1:
The ring component is designed to rotate dynamically around the spout tube. When the cap is unscrewed, the ring can rotate to reposition the cap away from the spout opening, allowing product flow while maintaining the cap's attached state. This dynamic movement resolves the conflict between retention and operational interference.
3Reliability
If a connection device with rotating ring and breakable bridges is used, then cap retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection device merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: the ring provides both rotational movement and structural support, the breakable bridges provide both initial connection and tamper indication, and the strap provides continuous attachment. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while achieving reliable cap retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring component serves multiple functions: it connects the cap to the spout, allows rotational movement to prevent interference, and provides a structure for the breakable bridges. The breakable bridges simultaneously provide initial attachment and visual tamper indication. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining reliable cap retention.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c
AI summary
A closing assembly (100) for a spout (2) with tube (16) for a thin-walled flexible packaging includes a cap (4) and a connecting device (6) comprising a strap (50) and a guarantee seal provided with breakable bridges (46).