Collapsible Bulk Solid Container with Rod Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bulk solids containers pose safety risks and health hazards during discharge, are prone to tears and leaks, require significant storage space, and cannot be reused, while rigid silos create static electricity issues and are difficult to move and store efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A flexible bag supported by a base and rods, allowing safe and healthy discharge of bulk solids without bag collapse, with the entire container being collapsible and reusable, enabling efficient storage and transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible bag is used to store bulk solids, then the container becomes collapsible and reusable, but the bag is prone to tears and leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into two functional parts: a flexible collapsible bag for storage and a rigid frame structure for support. The rigid base and rods provide structural integrity and prevent bag collapse during discharge, while the bag maintains its flexibility for collapsing when empty. This segmentation allows each component to excel at its specific function without compromising the other.
2Strength
If rigid silos are used to support the bag, then structural stability is improved, but static electricity issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a completely rigid structure, the patent applies rigidity only where needed - at the base and along vertical rods for structural support. The bag itself remains flexible throughout, which prevents static electricity generation while the localized rigid elements provide necessary stability. This selective application of rigidity resolves the contradiction between structural strength and static electricity prevention.
3Productivity
If the bag is allowed to collapse during discharge, then material flow is improved, but the bag structure fails and creates safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid frame structure acts as an intermediary between the flexible bag and the discharge process. It provides the necessary structural support to prevent bag failure while allowing the bag to collapse inward during discharge. The frame absorbs and distributes the stresses that would otherwise cause bag rupture, enabling safe and efficient material flow.
4Strength
If non-collapsible containers are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The container transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where the bag can change volume. When full, the bag expands to provide structural support; when empty, it collapses to minimize storage space. The rigid frame remains constant but provides the boundary within which the dynamic bag operates, maintaining structural integrity while enabling volume reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
A bulk solids container can include a bag to hold the bulk solid, a rigid base to support the bag, and rods extending up from the base to the top of the bag. The rods provide vertical structural integrity to the sides of the bag. The base can include a sloped upper surface sloping down towards a discharge opening located near the center of the base and aeration openings that inhibit or prevent the bulk solids from clogging the discharge opening during removal of the bulk solids from the bag. When the bag is empty, the bag and the rods can be collapsed and fit on top of the upper surface of the base. The container can be transported back to a fill facility to be reused.