Articulated PET Container Shoulder and Bottom for Lightweight Stacking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable plastic containers face challenges in achieving a good compromise between stability and lightweightness, particularly when produced by blow molding from PET, as reducing weight compromises rigidity and stability, and additional pressurization methods like using liquid nitrogen are not economically or ecologically viable.
Innovation Solution
A container design with an articulated shoulder and bottom that can switch between deployed and retracted positions, using a semi-rigid central dome and articulations to maintain internal pressure, allowing reduced material usage while enhancing rigidity and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the container is made lighter by reducing material quantity, then weight is reduced, but rigidity and mechanical strength deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom and shoulder are made articulated between deployed and retracted positions, transforming the container from a static structure to a dynamic one. This allows the container to adapt its shape and internal volume, creating positive pressure that reinforces the structure. The articulated bottom can be withdrawn to create pressure while maintaining sufficient material quantity for strength.
2Weight of moving object
If the container is made lighter by reducing material quantity, then weight is reduced, but stacking stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated bottom and shoulder allow the container to dynamically adjust its configuration for stacking. When stacked, the bottom can be in a retracted position creating positive pressure that reinforces the container walls, while the shoulder articulation allows proper nesting geometry. This dynamic adaptation maintains stacking stability without requiring excessive material.
3Strength
If additional pressurization methods (liquid nitrogen) are used to reinforce the container, then rigidity is improved, but economic and ecological viability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container uses its own structural components (articulated bottom and shoulder) to generate the necessary positive pressure for reinforcement. By withdrawing the bottom and articulating the shoulder, the container self-pressurizes using its filling volume, eliminating the need for external pressurization systems like liquid nitrogen. This self-service approach maintains rigidity while improving economic and ecological viability.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are containers and moulds for producing containers. The container is obtained by blow moulding or stretch blow moulding from a blank made of plastic material. The container includes a body, a shoulder extending from the shoulder, and a bottom at the lower end of said body. The shoulder is articulated between an extended position and a retracted position. The bottom is articulated to the lower end of the body between an extended position and a retracted position. When the container is filled and closed, the movement of the shoulder from the extended position into the retracted position causes the bottom to move from the retracted position into the extended position and vice-versa.