Carton Handle Offset Configuration for Stress Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Carton manufacturers face challenges in creating ergonomic handle openings that are strong enough to withstand the weight of enclosed articles while minimizing material usage, leading to a need for improved handle configurations that are both robust and efficient.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of an offset handle configuration in cartons, where the handle is positioned asymmetrically with respect to the medial plane, featuring a handle opening that is elongated and tapered, and includes a hingedly connected flap with a web structure for enhanced folding and stress relief, allowing optimal distribution of stress forces when grasping the carton.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If the handle opening is positioned symmetrically on the medial plane, then the structural strength is improved, but the material usage increases and ergonomic accessibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle strengthVSAvoidmaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The handle opening is deliberately positioned asymmetrically relative to the carton's medial plane, with the handle extending closer to one edge than the other. This asymmetric configuration allows the handle to be positioned optimally for user hand placement and gripping ergonomics, while the stress relief feature is strategically placed to distribute loading forces efficiently through the remaining material, achieving both strength and material efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Ease of operation

If the handle opening is made larger for better ergonomics, then the accessibility is improved, but the structural integrity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandle accessibilityVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

A stress relief feature is incorporated at a specific location within the handle opening structure. This localized feature strategically positions material redistribution to optimize stress distribution across the handle opening during gripping operations. By concentrating stress relief capabilities at critical locations rather than uniformly distributing them, the design maintains adequate structural integrity while preserving sufficient opening size for ergonomic hand placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If the handle is made more robust to withstand weight stress, then the strength is improved, but the material usage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight bearing capacityVSAvoidmaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The design modifies the geometric parameters of the handle opening and associated stress relief features to optimize the distribution of mechanical stresses. By carefully controlling the positioning, dimensions, and shaping of these features, the structure achieves enhanced weight-bearing capacity through improved stress distribution patterns rather than simply increasing material quantity. The asymmetric positioning and stress relief geometry work together to create an efficient load-path through the remaining material.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8733623B2Carrying handle for a carton
Publication Date: 2014.05.27 WESTROCK PACKAGING SYSTEMS LLC
  • US8733623B2 patent drawing
  • US8733623B2 patent drawing
  • US8733623B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A carton (12) includes a first wall (22) and a second wall (20). The first wall (22) includes a first edge (21) and a second edge (23) that are opposed to one another. The first wall (22) and the second wall (20) are adjoined along the first edge (21). The carton (12) includes a handle (30). The handle (30) includes a handle opening (80) that is elongated along a longitudinal axis that extends transversely to the first edge (21). The handle opening (80) is configured to be engaged no closer to the second edge (23) than to the first edge (21).