Bicycle Frame Transport Container with Segmented Spacers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing packaging methods for bicycle frames, which rely on bubble wrap and adhesive tape, are time-consuming and do not adequately represent the high quality of the product, while also being necessary to prevent damage during transport.
Innovation Solution
A transport container with a receiving element and spacers that allows the bicycle frame to float inside, eliminating the need for bubble wrap and ensuring secure positioning and protection through fixing elements and a designed receiving element that prevents shifting during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bubble wrap and adhesive tape are used to package the bicycle frame, then the bicycle frame is protected from damage during transport, but the packaging effort and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is divided into separate functional elements: a receiving element with fixing elements for securing the bicycle frame, and spacers for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring time-consuming wrapping operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving element and spacers are pre-assembled in the outer container before the bicycle frame is placed inside. The fixing elements are positioned in advance to match the bicycle frame geometry, so that when the frame is inserted, protection is immediately established without requiring subsequent wrapping or taping actions.
2Reliability
If bubble wrap and adhesive tape are used to package the bicycle frame, then the bicycle frame is protected from damage during transport, but the unpacking process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system uses discrete, easily separable components: the bicycle frame is secured by individual fixing elements that can be quickly released, and the spacers are separate pieces that can be easily removed. This segmentation eliminates the need to cut through adhesive tape or unwrap multiple layers of bubble wrap.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective function is extracted from the traditional wrapping approach and embodied in the receiving element and spacers. The bicycle frame is held protected by these extracted components rather than being enveloped in bubble wrap, making removal straightforward by simply taking out the spacers and unfastening the fixing elements.
3Reliability
If traditional bubble wrap packaging is used, then the bicycle frame is protected, but the product appearance and quality perception are diminished due to extensive packaging materials
Solution Approach 1:
The protective function is extracted from bulky wrapping materials and implemented through the receiving element and spacers. This extraction allows the bicycle frame to be protected while remaining visible and accessible, presenting a clean, professional appearance that reflects product quality rather than being hidden under layers of bubble wrap.
Solution Approach 2:
Protection is applied locally at specific contact points between the bicycle frame and the packaging system (through the receiving element and spacers) rather than enveloping the entire frame in bubble wrap. This local quality approach provides adequate protection while maintaining a sleek, minimal packaging aesthetic.
4Reliability
If spacers are used to make the bicycle frame float inside the outer container, then the bicycle frame does not touch the inner walls and is protected from impact forces, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacers act as intermediary elements between the bicycle frame and the outer container walls. These simple mediating components create the necessary distance to prevent direct contact and impact force transmission, while the receiving element serves as an intermediary structure to hold and position the bicycle frame securely.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacers are thin, simple elements that effectively create protective spacing without adding significant structural complexity. They function similarly to thin protective films, providing the necessary separation and cushioning with minimal material and design complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The container has an outer container i.e. outer cardboard, and a support element (20) arranged at the outer cardboard. A fixing element connected with the support element fixes bicycle frames i.e. racing bicycle frames, at the support element. Distance pieces i.e. plates (30, 32), hold the bicycle frames at a distance to inner walls. The pieces are partially connected with the support element. The support element is made of a cardboard box, and edges of the cardboard box are partially rolled to form the distance pieces. The fixing element comprises a block-shaped base body made of paper.