Threaded Caps and Adapters for Resealing Non-Threaded Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers for liquids, gels, and adhesives lack resealing mechanisms and compatibility with other systems, leading to excess waste and limited application due to their design, which often includes frangible caps that cannot be reattached and lack threaded features for attachment.
Innovation Solution
Development of caps and adapters with threaded designs that can securely attach to containers without pre-existing threads, featuring a plug and angled receptacle for interference fit, allowing resealing and integration with external systems through passageways and dispensing features like nozzles or luer fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If frangible caps are used to seal containers, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to re-seal the container is lost and waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap system is divided into two separate components: a frangible cap for initial sealing and a reusable cap with threading mechanism for resealing. This segmentation allows the container to maintain low manufacturing costs while enabling multiple uses and reducing waste.
Solution Approach 2:
Threads are introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the cap and container neck, enabling the cap to be repeatedly attached and detached. This intermediary feature transforms a single-use sealing system into a reusable system without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
2Ease of operation
If frangible caps with break lines are used, then the container can be initially sealed and opened, but no mechanism exists for re-securing the container
Solution Approach 1:
The cap transitions from a static frangible design to a dynamic reusable design with threading capability. The threading mechanism allows the cap to be repeatedly engaged and disengaged, providing both ease of operation and reliable resealing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap design incorporates threading parameters (thread pitch, diameter, depth) that enable secure engagement with the container neck. This parameter change transforms the cap from a single-use sealing element to a reusable closure mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If containers are designed with minimal features to reduce cost, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to other systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cap with threading mechanism serves multiple functions: initial sealing, resealing, and providing an attachment interface for various dispensing systems. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without requiring complex container designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded cap acts as an intermediary interface between the simple container and various external systems (dispensing mechanisms, storage systems, application tools). This intermediary enables versatility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity of the container itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A cap may include a top and a sidewall depending from the top. A plug may also extend from the top, spaced from the sidewall. Threads are formed either on an internal surface of the sidewall, i.e., generally facing the plug, or on an external surface of the plug, i.e., generally facing the sidewall. The spacing between the sidewall and the plug generally defines a receptacle configured for receiving an open end of a container. The sidewall and the plug may be angled relative to each other, such that the receptacle has a cross-section that is generally V-shaped.