Container Graphics via Single-Sided Blank Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for manufacturing containers with graphics require complex processes and multiple passes, leading to increased waste and labor costs, as they often necessitate separate printing and application of graphics on both sides of the container.
Innovation Solution
A method and structure for constructing containers from a single-sided blank with graphics, where the blank includes hingedly coupled panels that can be folded and secured to form an enclosure with graphics on both interior and exterior surfaces, eliminating the need for multiple printing passes by utilizing fold lines and cut lines to facilitate easy assembly and display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional methods are used to manufacture containers with graphics on both sides, then graphics can be displayed on interior and exterior surfaces, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and requires multiple passes
Solution Approach 1:
The container blank is divided into distinct panels (front, back, left side, right side, bottom, and overlap panels) with specific graphic regions assigned to each. The first side contains graphics for interior surfaces while the second side contains graphics for exterior surfaces, allowing simultaneous preparation of both sides' graphics in a single manufacturing pass.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the third dimension by folding the flat blank into a three-dimensional container structure. The overlap panels extend beyond the main panels and are folded back to form the cover, creating interior and exterior surfaces that display graphics from both sides of the original flat blank.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate printing passes are used for interior and exterior graphics, then both surfaces can be printed, but labor costs and manufacturing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process merges the printing of interior and exterior graphics into a single operation. Both the first side (for interior graphics) and second side (for exterior graphics) of the blank are prepared simultaneously during one printing pass, eliminating the need for separate printing operations and significantly improving manufacturing efficiency.
3Reliability
If conventional container structures are used, then basic enclosure is achieved, but waste and labor costs increase due to complex assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The blank is pre-configured with all necessary panels, fold lines, and graphic regions before assembly. The overlap panels are designed to extend beyond the main panels and are pre-positioned to fold back and form the cover, eliminating the need for additional trimming or modification during assembly and reducing material waste.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple printing passes are required, then graphics can be applied to both sides, but the manufacturing process becomes more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process achieves continuity by printing graphics on both sides of the blank in a single continuous operation. The blank is positioned to allow simultaneous access to both the first side (interior graphics) and second side (exterior graphics), enabling uninterrupted printing without requiring the blank to be flipped or repositioned between printing passes.
Data Source
AI summary
A container is formed from a blank that has a first side and a second side. The first side can have one or more graphics. The container can include a base portion forming an enclosure and first and second overlap panels that collectively form a cover panel that can enclose the enclosure. Methods of constructing the container include forming the cover panel by securing the first and second overlap panels together.