Food Packaging Tray Tab Self-Centering Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food packaging with pivoting flaps requires precise insertion of extensions into slots, making the closing process time-consuming and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
The packaging features a pivoting tab with a pivoting extension that can be placed against the wall, and a self-centering holding tab and recess system that ensures the tab is securely held in the closed position, even with imperfect alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extensions are inserted into slots to hold the flap closed, then the flap can be securely held in the closed position, but the closing operation takes a relatively long time and requires very precise work
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining tab and retaining recess are designed to automatically self-align and self-center during the closing operation. When the extension is pressed against the wall, the retaining tab automatically pivots into the retaining recess without requiring precise manual alignment, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for precise work while maintaining secure holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining tab is designed to be pivotable relative to the extension, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position during closing. This dynamic movement enables the tab to automatically find and engage with the retaining recess, transforming a static precise-alignment requirement into a dynamic self-aligning process that is both rapid and reliable.
2Reliability
If extensions are inserted into slots to hold the flap closed, then the flap can be securely held in the closed position, but the closing operation requires very precise work
Solution Approach 1:
The self-centering mechanism automatically performs the alignment function that would otherwise require precise manual work. The retaining tab and recess are designed to self-align through their geometric relationship, making the operation easy and eliminating the skill requirement for precise insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The design anticipates potential misalignment by providing a self-correcting mechanism. The retaining tab is designed with sufficient travel range and the recess is positioned to accommodate variations in alignment, cushioning against the harmful effect of imprecise positioning before engagement occurs.
3Ease of operation
If the tab is easily opened for access, then users can quickly access contents, but the flap may open undesirably
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining tab and recess create a curved engagement path that provides natural mechanical advantage. The geometry of the pivoting tab engaging with the recess creates a self-latching effect that securely holds the closed position while allowing controlled release when sufficient force is applied by the user.
Data Source
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AI summary
Packaging, in particular for foodstuffs, comprising a tray (2) having at least one wall (3) and a pivotable tab (4), wherein at least one extension (5) pivotable relative to the tab (4) is provided on the pivotable tab (4), wherein the tab (4) and the at least one extension (5) are pivotable such that the at least one extension (5) can be placed against the at least one wall (3) in a closed position of the tab (4), wherein at least one retaining tab (6) and at least one retaining recess (7) are provided, wherein the at least one retaining tab (6) is arranged on the at least one extension (5) and the at least one retaining recess (7) is arranged on the at least one wall (3), or vice versa, wherein the at least one retaining tab (6) can be pivoted into the at least one retaining recess (7) when the at least one extension (5) rests against the at least one wall (3),and wherein the at least one retaining tab (6) cooperates with the at least one retaining recess (7) in the pivoted-in state such that the tab (4) is held in the closed position.