Openability of consumer packaging is becoming a major issue as the demographics of society are changing and society is getting older. Sadly, ageing brings with it many issues, not least a loss of strength and dexterity. In order to design effective packaging, understanding the ability of aged consumers is crucial. This paper outlines the development of a torque-measuring device and the results obtained to date.
Understanding and improving openability is becoming more and more important in the packaging industry. Specific tests or focus groups can be used to determine whether users have problems with packaging; however, these are both time consuming and expensive. This paper outlines a method by which it is possible to predict openability for any kind of closure by utilizing simple and quick tests, and by mathematically adapting strength test data. The method is demonstrated on wide mouth closures, and shows that there are optimum values for jar diameter and friction for containers of this type to enable increased openability. The data indicates that the optimum diameter for a jar lid is around 73 mm, and therefore lids of this diameter are the easiest for consumers to open. The process outlined can be used to improve openability of packaging while keeping costs to a minimum.
For many years the standard engineering design approach has been to design for the most common size or ability and hence ensuring that your product is applicable to the broadest proportion of society. Recently, however, this approach has been seen to be flawed, particularly with regards to consumer packaging (although there many examples in other industries, such as transport). This paper outlines a new approach to packaging design that has been termed 'inclusive' design.
SUMMARYThe ease with which a container can be accessed or its 'openability' is becoming more of an issue for manufacturers and consumers as the average age of the population increases. Ageing brings with it a range of issues including a loss of strength and reduced dexterity. This paper aimed to look at the relationship between diameter, torque and age for standard consumer closures using a torque-measuring device.The results of the investigation show that larger-diameter jars (85 mm) require much higher opening forces than smaller ones (75 mm and below). Smaller jars require lower opening torques, although the force required to open many jars is still higher than many elderly people are able to generate.
This study expands on a previous work by the authors where it was shown through the use of ethnography and finite element models that a link exists between the choice of grip and joint stresses. Further finite element models are created to investigate the relationship between joint stresses and hand dimensions. This is an important area of research for inclusive design, since some of the most vulnerable members of society, such as elderly women, often exhibit extremes of physical dimensions.
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