Tamper-Evident Container Lock With Deflected Reclosure Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tamper-evident features in storage containers are easily circumventable and lack a clear distinction between the unopened and opened states, making it difficult to quickly identify if the container has been previously opened.
Innovation Solution
A container design with interlocking tabs and a frangible portion that visibly indicates reopening by deflecting a tab when the container is reclosed, providing a clear distinction between initial and subsequent closed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing tamper-evident features are used, then the container can indicate opening, but the indication is easily circumventable and not readily identifiable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual color changes in the tamper-evident feature. The indicator changes from a hidden or subtle state to a clearly visible state when tampering occurs, making detection immediate and unambiguous. This resolves the contradiction by providing both reliable tamper indication and easy detectability through obvious visual cues.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions the tamper indication from a two-dimensional subtle mark to a three-dimensional visible protrusion or structural change. The indicator physically rises or changes form when tampered with, creating a tangible, easily detectable signal that cannot be easily circumvented, thus improving both reliability and detectability.
2Device complexity
If simple tamper-evident features are used, then the container structure remains simple, but the features are easily circumventable
Solution Approach 1:
The tamper-evident feature is segmented into distinct functional components: a base structure, an indicator element, and a triggering mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while maintaining overall structural simplicity. The indicator element can be a separate piece that becomes visible or changes position when tampered with, providing reliable indication without complex overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tamper-evident feature is designed to be self-actuating, where the act of tampering itself triggers the indication mechanism. No additional power source, control system, or complex activation mechanism is needed—the structural change caused by tampering directly produces the visible indicator, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable detection.
3Shape
If subtle tamper indicators are used, then the container appearance remains clean, but the previous opening is not readily identifiable
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator employs stark color changes or high-contrast visual elements that are immediately noticeable against the container's clean appearance. When tampering occurs, the indicator transitions to a highly visible state through color change, ensuring the container remains aesthetically pleasing in its normal state while providing unmistakable tamper evidence when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator transitions from a flat, two-dimensional surface feature to a three-dimensional protruding element when tampered with. This dimensional change creates a visible and tactile signal that does not compromise the clean appearance of the container in its normal state, as the indicator remains hidden or flush until activation.
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes a base and a lid configured to selectively move between an open position and a closed position. A storage volume of the container is defined by and between the base and the lid in the closed position. The container also includes a first tab on the base, a second tab on the lid, a first locking member, and a second locking member. The second locking member is configured to interlock with the first locking member such that the base and the lid are retained in the closed position when the first locking member and the second locking member are interlocked. The container also includes a bump projecting from one of the first tab and the second tab, such that at least a portion of the second tab is deflected when the lid and the base are in the closed position.