Stackable Bulk Bin Base Corner Shock Absorber

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bulk bin containers are prone to damage due to high horizontal forces from impacts when stacked, as the current design concentrates stress at the corners of the lower container, leading to breakage during movements and stacking.

Innovation Solution

Integration of shock absorbing elements, such as L-shaped elastomeric materials or structures with holes, at the base corners of the container to distribute and absorb impact forces, reducing stress on the corners of the lower container.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If containers are stacked with recessed bases to align and prevent sliding, then stacking stability is improved, but corner stress concentration occurs during impacts leading to breakage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestacking stabilityVSAvoidcorner strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary shock-absorbing element positioned between the upper container and the lower container's sidewall. This element absorbs and distributes impact forces, preventing direct transmission of high stresses to the corner regions, thereby resolving the contradiction between stacking stability and corner strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The shock-absorbing element is pre-installed at the base corner of each container before stacking occurs. This beforehand cushioning prepares the structure to absorb future impacts, protecting the corners from breakage while maintaining stacking stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Strength

If shock absorbing elements are added to distribute impact forces, then corner strength is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorner strengthVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the base corner geometry by adding a recessed portion that accommodates the shock-absorbing element. This parameter change in the base structure allows integration of the protective element without requiring additional external components, thus improving corner strength while minimizing increases in device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The shock absorbing elements effectively reduce or prevent damage to the containers by distributing and absorbing impact forces, enhancing the durability and stability of stacked bulk bin containers.

Implementation Method 1

The shock absorbing elements can be formed from an elastomeric material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9708097B2Bulk bin with integrated shock absorber

Publication Date: 2017.07.18 ORBIS CORP

AI summary

A stackable bulk bin container having shock absorbing elements is provided. The bulk bin container includes a base portion and four collapsible sidewalls. The base includes feet extending downward. The feet are connected by stringers forming four corner portions. Shock absorbing elements are positioned proximate the corner portions in the base of the container. The shock absorbing elements absorb energy from impacts when the container is stacked on like containers.