Cushion Bumper With Multi-Directional Deforming Protrusions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing protective devices for packaging objects during shipment do not provide adequate protection, exposing packaged objects to high G-forces during impact events, which can cause damage or breakage.

Innovation Solution

A cushion bumper with a base member, a cavity to receive an object, and a protrusion extending from the base member into the cavity, designed to deform in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions upon application of a compressive force, thereby extending the deceleration event and reducing G-forces experienced by the object.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing protective devices are used, then the packaging structure is simple, but the packaged objects are exposed to high G-forces during impact events causing damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprotection effectivenessVSAvoiddevice structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protective device is segmented into multiple functional components: a base member with a cavity to receive the object, and multiple protrusions extending into the cavity. Each protrusion is configured to deform in specific directions (X-, Y-, and Z-directions) under compressive force, allowing distributed protection across multiple deformation zones rather than a single monolithic structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The protrusions are designed with geometric shapes that enable dynamic deformation behavior during impact events. The protrusions can deform in multiple directions (X-, Y-, and Z-directions) based on the application of compressive force, adapting to the direction and magnitude of impact forces to extend the deceleration event and reduce peak G-forces on the packaged object.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If a rigid protective structure is used, then the device provides structural support, but it transmits high impact forces to the packaged object

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural supportVSAvoidG-forces on object

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The geometric shape of the protrusions is specifically configured to change their deformation characteristics under load. The protrusions are designed to deform in X-, Y-, and Z-directions when compressive force is applied, transforming the rigid structural support into a controlled deformation mechanism that extends the deceleration event and reduces peak forces transmitted to the packaged object.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The device converts the harmful impact force into beneficial controlled deformation of the protrusions. During impact events, the compressive force that would normally damage the packaged object is instead absorbed and distributed through the geometric deformation of the protrusions in multiple directions, extending the deceleration time and reducing peak G-forces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

3Loss of energy

If a soft cushioning material is used, then the device absorbs impact energy, but it cannot provide adequate structural support

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimpact energy absorptionVSAvoidstructural support

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The protective device combines structural and cushioning functions within an integrated geometry. The base member and protrusions form a composite-like structure where the rigid base provides structural support while the geometrically configured protrusions provide controlled deformation for energy absorption. This eliminates the need for separate rigid and soft components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The geometric shape of the protrusions is designed to change their effective stiffness and deformation characteristics under load. During normal handling, the protrusions maintain structural integrity, but during impact events, they deform in X-, Y-, and Z-directions to absorb impact energy while still providing structural support through the base member and cavity configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

The cushion bumper effectively reduces the G-forces experienced by objects during impact events, thereby minimizing the risk of damage and extending the deceleration of the object, as demonstrated by a reduction in G-forces of up to 35% in sequence drop tests.

Implementation Method 1

a protrusion extending from the base member into the cavity and having a geometric shape configured to deform in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions based on the application of a compressive force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Implementation Method 2

deforming the protrusion in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions based on the application of a compressive force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS20250058954A1Product protection device

Publication Date: 2025.02.20 VERITIV OPERATING CO

AI summary

A cushion bumper may include a base member, a cavity sized to receive at least part of an object; and a protrusion extending from the base member into the cavity and having a geometric shape configured to deform in the X-, Y-, and Z-directions based on the application of a compressive force.