Clamshell Package Assembly Automated Separation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for dispensing seed sample aliquots are labor-intensive and not suitable for automated handling, as they require manual opening and closing of paper coin envelopes, which are not easily reusable or re-openable.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for handling package assemblies with first and second portions that apply a force to separate these portions, allowing for automated release of seed aliquots, using compressive forces or opening tools, and identifying package labels using machine readers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If paper coin envelopes are used to package aliquots, then the aliquots can be contained and transported, but the envelopes require manual opening and are not suitable for automated handling

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated handlingVSAvoidmanual opening required

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The package assembly is divided into first and second portions that can be automatically separated. The first portion includes a container and the second portion includes a cover, allowing automated mechanisms to selectively separate these portions for aliquot dispensing without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical opening with automated mechanical systems including opening tools, compressive forces, and robotic handling devices that can automatically separate package portions and dispense aliquots without human operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional package assemblies are used, then aliquots can be contained, but the packages cannot be easily closed and re-opened or re-used

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvere-usabilityVSAvoidclosing and re-opening difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The package assembly incorporates flexible elements and movable portions that allow dynamic opening and closing operations. The second portion can be flexed outwardly from the first portion about a flexure axis, enabling repeated access to aliquots while maintaining containment when closed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The package assembly is designed to be reused multiple times with aliquots being selectively dispensed and the package closed afterward. The portions can be separated for access and then reassembled for storage, extending the service life of the packaging system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Productivity

If automated force application is used to separate package portions, then handling efficiency improves, but the force must be precisely controlled to separate portions while maintaining container integrity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling efficiencyVSAvoidforce control precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces opening tools and intermediate mechanical elements that mediate the force application between the automated system and the package portions. These intermediaries distribute and control the separating force to effectively separate portions while preventing damage to the container and its contents.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The package assembly is pre-configured with flexure axes, hinge portions, and geometric arrangements that determine how forces are applied and distributed. This preliminary structural design ensures that automated forces separate portions efficiently while maintaining container integrity through predictable deformation paths.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables efficient, automated handling and separation of seed aliquots, reducing manual labor and facilitating re-use of package assemblies while ensuring accurate identification of aliquot contents.

Implementation Method 1

applying a compressive force to opposing sides of the package assembly to flex the second portion outwardly from the first portion about a flexure axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Implementation Method 2

flex the second portion outwardly from the first portion about a flexure axis

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

inserting an opening tool between the first and second portions of the package assembly such as to allow re-use of the package assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2167388B1Method of handling clamshell containers containing a particulate aliquot

Publication Date: 2012.04.11 PIONEER HI BREED INTERNATIONAL INC

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

A method for handling package assemblies in an automated aliquot and/or dispersal processes is provided. Embodiments of the present invention include, but are not limited to, a method of handling a package assembly containing a particulate aliquot (such as a selected type of agricultural seed) that includes first and second portions which cooperate to contain the aliquot, the method including receiving the package assembly in a package assembly handling device (50), and applying a force to the package assembly using the package assembly handling device so that the first and second portions at least partially separate in response to the force.