Twist and Flip Closure with Integrated Tamper-Evident Band
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tamper-evident polymeric closures for containers are environmentally problematic due to separation into two components, which hinders recycling and increases waste.
Innovation Solution
A twist and flip polymeric closure that remains integrated after opening, featuring a locking tab and arms with grooves, allowing for secure sealing and easy recycling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tamper-evident polymeric closure is designed to separate into two components after opening, then tamper evidence is provided, but recycling becomes difficult and environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is segmented into a first closure portion and a second closure portion that are detachably connected. The first closure portion can be separated from the second closure portion through frangible connections, allowing tamper evidence while the second portion remains on the container for recycling. This segmentation enables the tamper-evident function to be achieved without completely separating the closure into unrecyclable components.
2Reliability
If a tamper-evident closure separates into two components, then opening indication is provided, but the closure structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tamper-evident band is merged with the second closure portion through frangible connections, creating an integrated structure that provides opening indication. When the frangible connections break, the tamper-evident band separates to provide visual indication of opening, while the overall closure structure remains relatively simple and manageable.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to maintain closure position, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism utilizes dynamic elements including resilient arms that can flex between locked and unlocked positions, and a tab that rotates to engage with the container neck. This dynamic design provides secure locking functionality while maintaining ease of operation through simple rotational and flexing motions rather than complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage through the user's natural twisting and flipping actions. The resilient arms automatically lock into position when the closure is twisted, and the tab automatically engages with the container neck, eliminating the need for separate locking actions or complex control systems.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
A twist and flip closure (10) includes first (12) and second closure portions (14). The first closure portion (10) includes a top wall (portion (22) and a skirt portion (32). The second closure portion (14) includes a tamper-evident band (34), and first (50) and second (60) frangible connections. The first frangible connection (50) extends around the closure circumference. The second frangible connection 60 has first (62) and second (64) sections. The second frangible connection (60) is spaced from the first frangible connection (50). At least a portion of the second frangible connection (60) is located further from the top wall portion (22) than a portion of the first frangible connection (50). The second frangible connection (60) defines an area adapted to form a tab (70). The closure (10) is adapted to be opened by twisting to break the frangible connections (50, 60) and expose the tab (70) and then flipping the first closure portion (50) from the second closure portion (60) via the exposed tab (70). The closure (10) is adapted to be locked when flipped.