Composite Package for Beverage Containers with Load-Optimized Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods for beverage containers in multi-unit bundles are inefficient as they consist of identical sizes, leading to waste and increased costs due to mismatched consumption patterns and structural weaknesses, which are not adequately addressed by prior solutions like European Patent Application EP2096040 A1.
Innovation Solution
A composite package that accommodates varying container sizes and orientations, using interlocking mechanisms and strategic placement to distribute loads, allowing for a compact and stable bundle that optimizes storage and transportation efficiency, and includes a binding material to secure the containers as a single unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If containers of identical size are bundled together, then the bundle structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the consumer cannot match container sizes to different consumption needs, resulting in waste and extra costs
Solution Approach 1:
The bundle is segmented into different container size groups (large, medium, small containers) that can be independently selected and arranged. This allows consumers to match container sizes to different consumption scenarios while maintaining a unified bundle structure that is still easy to manufacture and assemble.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bundle are assigned different container sizes based on local consumption needs. The bundle structure provides different container sizes in specific positions or groups, allowing consumers to select appropriate sizes for different uses without complicating the overall manufacturing process.
2Device complexity
If containers are oriented to resist forces in one direction, then the bundle structure is simplified, but the bundle becomes weak when subjected to loads from multiple directions, requiring thicker containers or additional bracing
Solution Approach 1:
The bundle structure employs asymmetric container orientations where containers are arranged at different angles and positions rather than uniform alignment. This asymmetric arrangement creates mutual support relationships that enhance resistance to loads from multiple directions while avoiding the need for thicker containers or complex bracing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The container orientation strategy extends from simple one-dimensional alignment to multi-dimensional arrangement. Containers are positioned and oriented in three-dimensional space to create a stable structure that resists forces from multiple directions, transforming the structural approach from planar to spatial configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If consumers purchase multiple bundles of different sizes to meet varying consumption needs, then all consumption scenarios are covered, but the quantity purchased exceeds actual needs, creating waste and increased expenditure
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple container sizes that would traditionally require separate purchases are merged into a single composite bundle. This unified bundle contains a mix of large, medium, and small containers that together address all consumption scenarios, allowing consumers to purchase one bundle instead of multiple separate bundles, thereby reducing waste and expenditure.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite bundle serves multiple consumption functions simultaneously by incorporating different container sizes within a single package. This universal bundle can satisfy various consumption needs (home use, travel, school, etc.) in one purchase, eliminating the need for consumers to buy separate bundles for different scenarios.
4Strength
If thicker containers or additional bracing are used to strengthen the bundle, then the bundle can resist external forces better, but the manufacturing cost increases and more material is wasted when discarded
Solution Approach 1:
The containers themselves serve the dual function of holding product and providing structural support for the bundle. By strategically orienting and positioning the containers, they mutually support each other to create a strong bundle structure without requiring additional bracing materials, thereby reducing material waste when the bundle is discarded.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a composite package (8) linked together into a single unit, and comprising a plurality of individual containers (1, 2, and 3) of varying shapes and/or volumes and being assembled according to different orientations in the composite package. In the composite package are defined strong and weak containers according to their mechanical resistances on which apply external loads. According to the invention, the strong containers are arranged in their orientation along the direction(s) of external loads placed upon the composite package thereby protecting the weakest ones.