Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closures for vessels are complex to clean and assemble, and often lack mechanical stability, especially in reusable designs.
Innovation Solution
A closure system comprising a ring-shaped base element and a rotatable rotating element with a locking mechanism that uses a movable section of a locking element within through-openings, allowing for self-locking and frictional resistance to maintain the closed position, and optionally featuring a membrane or cords for sealing, with guide elements for ease of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple components is used to ensure mechanical stability, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases and ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides locking through its engagement with the rotating element, guidance through its positioning within the through-opening, and structural support through its connection between the base element and rotating element. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it acts as a locking mechanism, a guide for the rotating element, a structural connector, and a component that defines the closure opening. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, simplifying the overall device.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with external components is used, then reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is positioned within the through-opening of the base element, and the movable section is contained within the first and/or second through-hole. This nesting arrangement protects the locking mechanism from external contamination while allowing it to function reliably, and also makes the closure easier to clean as there are no external complex mechanisms exposed.
3Ease of operation
If the movable section is positioned outside the through-opening for ease of operation, then ease of operation improves, but reliability deteriorates due to external influences
Solution Approach 1:
The movable section of the locking element is positioned within the first and/or second through-hole, protecting it from external influences such as contamination, damage, or interference. This nested positioning maintains reliability while the through-openings are designed to allow necessary operational movement.
4Ease of manufacture
If a simple closure design is used, then ease of manufacture improves, but reliability deteriorates due to lack of mechanical stability
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element combines multiple critical functions in a single component, achieving reliable mechanical stability without requiring multiple separate parts. This integration maintains ease of manufacture while ensuring the closure remains mechanically stable during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-sufficient. The locking element automatically engages and disengages with the rotating element through its movable section, providing reliable mechanical stability without requiring complex external locking devices or additional assembly steps.
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 closure provides a mechanically stable, easy-to-clean, and durable sealing mechanism that is self-locking, reducing assembly complexity and enhancing wear resistance, while maintaining liquid-tight integrity.
Implementation Method 1
Self-locking means that the rotating element and the base element are secured against reverse rotation or snapping back by frictional resistance.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a closure for a vessel, comprising a ring-like basic element (4) extending along a longitudinal axis (3) and having a first through opening (9), and a ring-like rotary element (5) which is operatively connected to the basic element (4) and is rotatable with respect thereto about the longitudinal axis (3) and has a second through opening (10), and at least one closing element (6, 29). The closing element has a first and a second end (7, 8), wherein the closing element (6, 29) is operatively connected at the first end (7) to the basic element (4) and at the second end (8) to the rotary element (5), and, in a rotated state of the rotary element with respect to the basic element (4), the closing element (6, 29) at least partially closes a closure opening (11).