Article Carrier Handle Structure for Heavy-Load Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging systems face challenges in efficiently transporting large or heavy articles while minimizing material usage and ensuring secure containment, particularly in forming carriers with integrated handles.
Innovation Solution
A packaging apparatus and method involving an applicator device with abutment projections and suction cups to automatically apply carriers to articles, utilizing an applicator plate with specific distance configurations and suction cups to form secure handle structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a carrier is formed to transport heavy articles, then the carrying capacity and strength are improved, but the material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a modular structure with separate handle portion and base portion that can be formed from different blank configurations. This segmentation allows optimization of material usage in each section while maintaining overall strength for heavy article transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier employs varying material thickness and structural density in different regions - the handle portion has reinforced structure for strength while the base portion is optimized for article containment. This local quality variation ensures strength where needed while minimizing material usage in less critical areas.
2Productivity
If an automatic applicator device is used to apply carriers to articles, then the productivity and automation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator device extracts and utilizes the natural geometric features of the carrier blank (such as flaps and scores) to achieve automatic positioning and formation. This extraction of functional features from the blank itself reduces the need for complex positioning mechanisms in the applicator device.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier blank is designed with self-forming features including pre-scored lines and elastic flaps that automatically position and shape themselves during the application process. This self-service mechanism reduces dependency on complex mechanical positioning systems in the applicator device.
3Ease of operation
If the carrier handle structure is designed for secure gripping, then the handling capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handle portion is formed with a curved, ergonomic configuration that provides natural gripping surfaces. The curvature of the handle structure conforms to human hand anatomy, improving ease of operation without requiring complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle structure utilizes flexible flaps and thin wall sections that can deform to accommodate different grip styles and article configurations. This flexibility provides adaptability for secure handling while maintaining a simple structural design.
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 efficient and secure transportation of heavy articles with reduced material waste by forming carriers that securely engage articles, enhancing handling and containment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one suction cup for engaging an article
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure relate to a packaging system, method of packaging, apparatus, handle structure, an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, and to a blank for forming the handle structure or article carrier. The packaging system provides an apparatus for applying the handle structure or article carrier to one or more articles. The apparatus provides a component adapted to engage the blank and form the handle structure or article carrier so as to displace a first side of the handle structure or article carrier, disposed on a first side of an article retention structure to a greater extent than a second side of the handle structure or article carrier, disposed on a second, opposing, side of an article retention structure.