Adjustable Retention Frame for Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing retention packaging systems lack the ability to efficiently adjust for packaging objects of varying sizes while maintaining efficient manufacturing processes.

Innovation Solution

A frame with movable front pieces that engage with retention flaps to tension a sheet over a central panel portion, allowing for adjustable retention of products between the sheet and panel, enhancing protection and versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing retention structures are used, then a level of protection is provided for the packaged object, but the ability to adjust for packaging objects of varying sizes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability for varying sizesVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the front pieces movable relative to the retention flaps. The front pieces can be positioned at different locations along the retention flaps to accommodate products of varying sizes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the packaging structure to adapt to different product dimensions without requiring multiple fixed-size frames, thereby improving versatility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If the sheet is tensioned to retain the product, then protection is enhanced, but the ability to accommodate different sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretention strengthVSAvoidsize accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the front retention structure into separate front pieces that can be independently positioned on the retention flaps. Each front piece can be adjusted to different locations depending on the product size, allowing the sheet to be tensioned appropriately for each configuration. This segmentation enables both strong retention (when tensioned) and size adaptability (through repositioning).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic positioning of front pieces along the retention flaps allows the system to maintain optimal sheet tension for different product sizes. By adjusting the position of front pieces, the sheet can be tensioned to provide adequate retention strength while accommodating varying product dimensions, thus resolving the contradiction between retention strength and size adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3212526B1Retention frame for a packaging assembly
Publication Date: 2019.03.27 SEALED AIR U S
  • EP3212526B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3212526B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3212526B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A frame useful for retaining a product includes a frame and a sheet. The panel includes a central portion and right and left retention flaps extending from the central portion. The panel also includes right and left front pieces moveable to an engaged position coupled with the right and left retention flaps, respectively. The sheet includes a front retaining portion extending between the right and left front pieces and a front remainder portion at least partially overlaying the central portion of the panel. The right and left front pieces in the engaged position connect the front retaining portion of the sheet to the right and left retention flaps, respectively. When the right and left front pieces are both in their engaged positions, the front retaining portion of the sheet extends over the central portion of the panel. The frame is positionable in a retained position having the right and left front pieces in their respective engaged positions and the right and left retention flap folded to extend beneath the central portion. The front retaining portion may be tensioned to retain the product between the front retaining portion and the front remainder portion of the sheet.