Symmetric Hinge Locking Mechanism for Deformation-Resistant Container Seals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking mechanisms for containers and lids are inadequate as they fail to provide a secure seal when the container or lid is deformed, are difficult to engage and disengage, and do not clearly indicate if the lid has been opened intentionally, posing a risk of food contamination.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism with symmetrically positioned coupling portions featuring a first hinge portion with a cutting broken line, second engaging protrudes, and connecting portions that ensure secure engagement and easy detection of lid opening, utilizing tapered cylindrical designs and reinforced structures for enhanced security and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional engagement pieces are used to couple the lid with the container, then the lid can cover the container, but the lid cannot firmly cover and couple with the container when the lid or container is pressed and deformed
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge portion is designed to be flexible and deformable, allowing it to adapt when the container or lid is pressed. The hinge portion can bend and deform elastically to maintain engagement under pressure, then return to its original shape to provide firm coupling. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between firm coupling and deformation resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge portion's physical parameters (flexibility, elasticity) are specifically designed to change under pressure. When pressed, the hinge portion temporarily changes its deformation state to maintain engagement, and then returns to its original state to provide secure coupling. This parameter change capability allows the system to maintain reliability under varying mechanical conditions.
2Reliability
If conventional engagement mechanism is used, then the lid can be coupled with the container, but the user cannot tell whether the lid has been opened by intentional persons
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator piece changes its visual state (color, position, or appearance) when the lid is opened. This visual change provides clear information to the user about the lid's opening state, preventing information loss and enabling security monitoring. The indicator piece transitions from one visual state when closed to another when opened, making intentional opening detectable.
3Reliability
If conventional engagement mechanism is used, then the lid can be coupled with the container, but the engagement and disengagement process is time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism is divided into multiple functional components: the hinge portion for flexible coupling, the indicator piece for opening detection, and the engagement protrusion for secure locking. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve reliable engagement through coordinated action of multiple segments rather than a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge portion is designed to automatically engage and disengage through its own elastic deformation capabilities. When the lid is placed on the container, the hinge portion automatically bends and locks into place without requiring additional user action. Similarly, opening the lid automatically engages the indicator piece to show the opening state, reducing the time and effort needed for operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for container and lid thereof may include a container and a lid, and the peripheral edge of the upper opening of the container has a first periphery edge. At least two first coupling portions, which are located at symmetric positions, and at least two second coupling portions, which are located at symmetric positions, outwardly protrude from the first periphery edge respectively. The lid comprises a second peripheral edge at the outer periphery thereof, and the inner surface of the second peripheral edge is configured to couple with and cover the first peripheral edge of the container. At least two first connecting portions respectively protrude from the second peripheral edge at symmetric positions, and at least two second connecting portions, which are located at symmetric positions, outwardly protrude from the second periphery edge respectively.