Composite Bulk Storage Container With Segmented Inner Bags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulk storage containers for flowable products face issues such as ripping, tearing, moisture absorption, and lack of handles, leading to spillage, spoilage, and handling difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A container assembly made from durable materials, featuring separable vessels with ergonomic handles, moisture and air-sealed designs, and interlocking structures for efficient dispensing and handling, allowing for easier transportation and storage with reduced spillage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If cardboard containers are used for bulk storage, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but moisture absorption occurs leading to product spoilage
Solution Approach 1:
The container uses a composite structure combining an outer cardboard container with an inner moisture-barrier bag. The cardboard provides cost-effective manufacturing and structural support, while the inner bag (made from materials like laminated plastic or foil) prevents moisture absorption and product spoilage. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by combining the advantages of both materials.
2Quantity of substance
If container size is increased for bulk storage, then storage capacity is improved, but handling difficulty increases due to weight
Solution Approach 1:
The bulk storage container is divided into multiple smaller inner bags within a single outer container. Each inner bag can be individually handled, lifted, and dispensed from, reducing the effective handling weight from 50+ pounds to much smaller portions. This segmentation allows bulk storage capacity while maintaining ease of operation through manageable individual units.
Solution Approach 2:
The container system allows dynamic reconfiguration where inner bags can be removed, emptied, and replaced independently. Handles are provided on the outer container for lifting the entire bulk storage unit, while product dispensing occurs through individual inner bag outlets. This dynamic design adapts to different handling and dispensing needs throughout the storage and usage cycle.
3Ease of manufacture
If container walls are made thinner to reduce material use, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but container integrity deteriorates leading to ripping and tearing
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs a composite structure where thin-walled cardboard provides the outer structural framework at low cost, while a separate inner bag made from high-strength, tear-resistant materials (laminated plastic, foil, or coated fabrics) provides the actual product containment. This division of functions allows thin walls for cost efficiency while maintaining integrity through the resilient inner bag material.
4Ease of operation
If handles are added to container for easier handling, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handles are integrated directly into the outer container structure during manufacturing, rather than being added as separate components. The handle structures are formed as integral parts of the cardboard container walls, combining the lifting function with the existing structural elements and minimizing additional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A container system has a plurality of separable interlocking vessels. Each of the vessels defines a separately sealed volume. Each of the vessels has an outlet. One of the plurality of the vessels is an upper vessel and one of the plurality of vessels is a lower vessel. The outlet of the upper vessel is the lowermost portion of the upper vessel and is disposed to one side of the upper vessel. The outlet of the lower vessel is the uppermost portion of the lower vessel and is disposed to one side of the lower vessel.