Tubular Case Cap Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tubular cases with U-like supporting rods require high operating force to detach the cap due to a short distance between the force application point and the fulcrum, leading to accidental detachment and inefficient cap release.
Innovation Solution
A tubular case design with a peripheral member rotatably supported at two points, featuring force apply points symmetrically located away from the rotation center, allowing for reduced operating force and stable cap detachment through a closed loop or C-like shape, with a stopper mechanism to prevent accidental operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a U-like supporting rod with cam is used to release cap engagement, then the cap can be detached from the case, but the operating force required is large and the working point must be largely projected in the radial direction
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member transitions from a U-like shape (2D planar structure) to a peripheral member forming a closed loop (3D circumferential structure). This dimensional change allows the force apply points to be positioned symmetrically away from the rotation center, creating a more effective lever arm without requiring large radial projection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the operating mechanism by positioning force apply points at symmetrical locations away from the rotation center. This parameter optimization increases the moment arm length, reducing the operating force required while maintaining compact radial dimensions.
2Force
If the working point side of the supporting rod is largely projected in the radial direction to reduce operating force, then the operating force is reduced, but the cap may be accidentally released from engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral member features localized force apply points positioned symmetrically away from the rotation center, concentrating the release action at specific locations. This localized force application provides sufficient operating force reduction while maintaining stable engagement at other locations, preventing accidental release.
Solution Approach 2:
The symmetrical positioning of force apply points creates a balanced force distribution that prevents unintended cap release. The design inherently resists accidental operation by requiring deliberate symmetrical force application, while still enabling easy intentional detachment.
3Force
If a peripheral member with force apply points symmetrically located away from the rotation center is used, then the operating force is reduced and cap release is stable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member integrates the peripheral member forming a closed loop with the force apply points and rotation support structure into a single unified component. This merging reduces the number of separate parts compared to a multi-component U-like mechanism with cam, achieving force reduction without proportional complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The peripheral member serves multiple functions: it provides the rotation support structure, defines the force apply points, forms the closed loop geometry, and enables the cap release mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
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 design reduces the operating force required for cap detachment, ensures stable cap release, and prevents accidental detachment by dispersing force evenly and maintaining a non-contact area between force apply points, allowing for easy mounting and reliable cap engagement.
Implementation Method 1
the peripheral member has a shape that substantially encloses the periphery of the case and includes force apply points for imparting a force in a direction where the cap is released from the engagement, the force apply points are located at symmetrical positions away from the rotation center
Data Source
AI summary
A cylindrical case receives a stick in a reciprocating manner so through an opening of the case. A cap is arranged to engage with the opening of the case. Engagement release of the cap is carried out by rotating an operating member. The operating member includes a peripheral member and an operating force imparting portion continuous with the peripheral member mounted on an upper portion of the case. When the operating force imparting portion is pressed downward, force apply points opposite to the operating force imparting portion impart a push-up force to the cap thereby releasing the cap from the engagement with the case.