Spring-Guided Container Lid Connectors for Faster Locking

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lid and container systems require time-consuming manual operations for opening and closing, which is inefficient, especially in industrial settings with tight time cycles.

Innovation Solution

A lid with movable connectors on opposite lateral edges, guided by a structural element with a spring mechanism, allowing for quick and easy operation by enabling the lid to be closed with a single manual operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms (hooks, tension straps) are used to secure the lid to the container, then the lid can be reliably fixed and protect contents from external influences, but the opening and closing operations become time-consuming and require multiple manual steps

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelid fixation reliabilityVSAvoidopening and closing time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed with movable elements that allow dynamic transition between locked and unlocked states. The connector can be quickly moved between positions to engage or disengage from the container, enabling fast opening and closing operations while maintaining secure fixation when closed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking function is segmented into discrete connector elements positioned at specific locations on the lid. Each connector operates independently to provide localized securing points, allowing the lid to be quickly engaged or disengaged from the container without requiring manipulation of the entire lid structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If multiple connectors are used on opposite lateral edges to secure the lid, then the lid can be firmly attached to the container, but the handling effort and complexity of operation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelid attachment strengthVSAvoidhandling effort

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple connectors are merged into an integrated assembly where several connecting elements are combined into a single handleable unit. This allows the user to operate multiple connectors simultaneously with one hand, reducing handling effort while maintaining firm attachment strength through the combined action of all connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

An intermediate structural element serves as a mediator between the user's hand and the multiple connectors. This intermediary component provides a common interface for actuating all connectors, simplifying the operation by allowing the user to control multiple locking points through a single grasping and moving action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The solution significantly reduces the number of manual operations required to open or close the lid and container system, enhancing efficiency and handling ease, particularly for large containers.

Implementation Method 1

a structural element with springs for easy operation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS12227346B2Lid for closing a container and system comprising a container and a lid

Publication Date: 2025.02.18 SSI SCHAFER PLASTICS GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to a lid for closing a container, wherein connectors are arranged on the lid, which are movably mounted in relation to the lateral edge and are guided through a guide, and to a system comprising a lid and a container.