Valve Carrier Ring Snap-Fit Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing carrier ring assemblies for container closures require additional substances like talc for assembly, which can cause machinery issues and slow down the manufacturing process, or necessitate additional processing steps, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A valve carrier ring assembly that uses a snap-fit system with a flexible, elastomeric valve and carrier ring, where the valve is molded with a retention portion that allows for easy assembly without talc, utilizing a design with intersecting slits and a thin skirt for pressure-actuated dispensing, and a carrier ring with retaining beads and spaces for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If talc is used to aid assembly of the valve into the carrier ring, then the valve can be inserted into the carrier ring, but the machinery requires disassembly, cleaning and/or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the harmful substance (talc) from the assembly process entirely by designing a snap-fit system where the valve's retention portion engages with retaining beads on the carrier ring, eliminating the need for lubricating substances that contaminate machinery
Solution Approach 2:
The valve and carrier ring are designed with self-aligning features where the retention portion and retaining beads automatically engage during insertion, allowing the components to assemble themselves without external aids like talc or additional processing steps
2Object-generated harmful factors
If less talc is used, then machinery contamination is reduced, but an additional processing step is required where a portion of the carrier ring is pressed over the top of the valve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retention function and the assembly function into a single integrated snap-fit mechanism, where the retention portion and retaining beads work together to both secure the valve and guide its assembly in one continuous motion without separate pressing steps
3Reliability
If an additional processing step is used to press the carrier ring over the valve, then the valve is retained in the carrier ring, but the manufacturing process slows down
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining beads are pre-positioned on the carrier ring during manufacturing, and the retention portion is pre-formed on the valve, allowing both components to be ready for immediate snap-fit assembly without requiring additional forming or shaping steps during the assembly process
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 solution minimizes the use of talc and additional processing steps, enhancing manufacturing efficiency by allowing for easy assembly and secure retention of the valve within the carrier ring, while maintaining a fluid-tight connection to prevent leaks.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible, elastomeric valve
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A carrier ring assembly (102, 202, 202A) is provided for use with a closure (36) of a container. The carrier ring assembly (102, 202, 202A) includes a carrier ring (100, 200, 200A) and a valve (60, 260). The carrier ring (100, 200, 200A) includes at least one retention bead (112, 212, 212A) and at least one retention space (114). The valve (60, 260) is located at least partially within the carrier ring (100, 200, 200A) and has a retention portion positioned within the retention space.