Carton Reinforcing Panel V-Shape Automated Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging carriers struggle with automated assembly and efficient article retention, particularly for items like bottles, due to complex manual loading processes and material wastage, while also lacking aesthetic appeal for marketing purposes.
Innovation Solution
A carton design featuring a bottom panel, side panels with strategically placed apertures, and a reinforcing panel that folds into a 'V' shape, allowing for automated assembly and secure article retention with a handle strap for easy carrying, while maintaining minimal material usage and aesthetically appealing shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a carrier with oblique and zig-zag retaining sections is used to securely hold articles, then article retention is improved, but automated assembly becomes difficult and manual loading is slow and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining sections are pre-formed with apertures positioned and oriented to guide articles into place during automated loading. The oblique and zig-zag configuration is established in advance in the blank, so that when the carrier is assembled, the articles can be automatically fed through the apertures without complex manual manipulation, enabling both secure retention and automated assembly
2Strength
If traditional multi-packs are formed to securely transport articles, then strength and suitability for holding large weights is improved, but material wastage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is designed as a single integrated blank that is segmented into functional zones (base panel, side panels, retaining sections) rather than using separate components. This segmentation of the blank into purpose-specific areas allows the structure to achieve the required strength for holding large weights while using minimal material, as each zone contributes to the overall structural integrity without redundant material
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier utilizes the inherent properties of the blank material and transforms it through folding and forming operations to create a strong, weight-bearing structure. By changing the physical parameters of the material through forming (creating rigid retaining sections from flexible blank material), the carrier achieves high strength-to-material-ratio, minimizing wastage while maintaining the ability to hold large weights
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional carrier designs are used for packaging, then functional requirements are met, but aesthetic appeal and marketing quality are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The blank is designed to simultaneously fulfill multiple functions: structural support, article retention through oblique and zig-zag sections, automated assembly guidance via aperture positioning, and aesthetic presentation. The integrated design ensures that the same structural elements that provide functional benefits also create an attractive, modern appearance suitable for marketing, eliminating the need to compromise between function and form
Data Source
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AI summary
A carton includes a bottom panel (12/22), and first (14/16) and second (side panels (24/26) each having upper (16, 26) and lower (14, 24) portions. The first side panel has first (32a, 32b) and second (30a, 30b) apertures. The first side panel (14/16) is arranged to be disposed on opposing sides of an article B while the second side panel (24/26) is arranged to be disposed on opposing sides of a second article B. The carton includes a reinforcing panel (20a, 20b, 20c, 20d) coupling the first and second side panels together. The reinforcing panel is disposed in face contacting relationship with the upper portions (16, 26) of the first and second side panels so as to substantially 'V' shaped.