Vacuum Closure Device With Sliding Plate Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for creating a vacuum in packaging require complex bags with specialized sealing and vacuum creation mechanisms, which are not suitable for applications needing only a relative vacuum and are more expensive than necessary.
Innovation Solution
A closure device comprising three superimposed plates with through openings and fixing means, where the third plate can occupy two positions to allow or block gas circulation, compatible with standard vacuum cleaners and easily integrated into various packaging types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex sealing means and separate vacuum creation means are used, then a perfect vacuum can be achieved, but the bag structure becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the sealing function and vacuum creation function into a single integrated closure device. The closure device includes a closure element that seals the opening and a vacuum creation element with a valve that allows vacuum extraction through the same closure structure, eliminating the need for separate sealing and vacuum mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure device serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a seal for the bag opening, provides a pathway for vacuum extraction via the valve, and can be opened to allow refilling or access. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall bag structure while maintaining effective vacuum creation.
2Reliability
If specialized vacuum creation mechanisms are used, then a perfect vacuum is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure device uses simple, inexpensive components such as a basic valve mechanism integrated into the closure element. The valve can be a simple stopper or plug that is easily manufactured and replaced if needed, avoiding the need for expensive, complex vacuum systems while achieving sufficient vacuum for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve in the vacuum creation element can be designed to be manually operated by the user without requiring specialized equipment or complex mechanisms. The user simply opens the valve to allow vacuum extraction and closes it to seal the vacuum, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for additional costly vacuum pumps or control systems.
3Reliability
If separate opening for filling and separate valve for vacuum are used, then vacuum creation is effective, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element and vacuum creation element are merged into a single integrated closure device. The closure element seals the bag opening while the vacuum creation element with its valve is incorporated into the same structure, allowing both filling and vacuum extraction to occur through one unified mechanism rather than requiring separate openings and valves.
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
Enables the creation of a relative vacuum in a simple and cost-effective manner, compatible with multiple packaging applications, enhancing storage and transport of foodstuffs while maintaining product freshness and facilitating easy stacking and storage.
Implementation Method 1
creating a relative vacuum in the interior of the packaging
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The device has a lower plate (2) with transversal openings and fixation units (6), and an intermediate plate (3) with transversal openings superimposed with the former openings when the plates are fixed together. An upper plate (4) has a circular opening (11) and is connected with lateral longitudinal slides (8) of the plate (3) so as to occupy open and close positions. The opening (11) is not superimposed on the transversal openings in the close position to provide a sealing obstacle during gas circulation across the device which is made of plastic material.