Twist-Lock Box Closure for Reusable Tamper-Evident Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing box closure methods, such as tucking flaps under each other or using tape, lack effectiveness and durability, and existing devices do not provide a reliable and reusable solution for securing box flaps in a closed position.
Innovation Solution
A box closure device with a first piece, a second piece, and a hub, where the second piece has a blade for inserting between flaps and a glide for twisting to lock the flaps, along with engagement portions and sleeves for enhanced grip and tamper evidence, allowing for secure closure without damaging the box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tape is used to seal the box, then effective sealing is achieved, but the box is damaged upon removal and the tape is single-use only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable paper or plastic strip that is inserted between box flaps and torn by the user to lock the flaps in place. This disposable element achieves reliable sealing without damaging the box, replacing the need for reusable tape that causes damage upon removal.
2Ease of operation
If corners of flaps are tucked under one another, then simple closure is achieved, but sealing effectiveness is poor and flap integrity degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary paper or plastic strip that acts as a mediator between the box flaps. This strip is inserted between the flaps and torn to create a secure lock, providing effective sealing without requiring the flaps themselves to be bent or compromised, thus maintaining flap integrity while achieving reliable closure.
3Duration of action of moving object
If a closure device is used to fasten the box, then reusable secure closure is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device is segmented into simple, separate components: a paper or plastic strip with engagement features, and a box with corresponding receptacles. This segmentation allows for reusable secure closure while keeping each component simple in structure, avoiding the need for complex integrated mechanisms.
4Strength
If the second piece is made thick for strength, then durability is improved, but the distance between first piece and outer perimeter increases affecting compactness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite construction where the closure device combines materials of different properties - such as a rigid hub providing structural strength and durability, combined with thinner flexible arms or pieces that can bend and engage. This composite approach maintains the necessary strength for durability while minimizing the overall distance and maintaining compactness.
Data Source
AI summary
A box closure device having a first piece, a second piece, and a hub separating the first piece and second piece is provided. The first piece can have one or more engagement portions. The second piece can extend in both directions relative to the hub and is spaced from the first piece a selected amount allowing for box flaps to fit between the top piece and bottom piece. The second piece can have a blade to assist in positioning the closure device between the interior ends of two flaps. The second piece can also have a glide. In use, the user or a machine can engage the engagement portion(s) and twist the closure device so that the bottom piece is no longer aligned with a gap between the flaps thereby locking the flaps in a closed position. Lobes can be located on the ends of the second piece.