Discrete Container Handle With Segmented Load-Bearing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handles for paperboard or corrugated containers often detach or 'zipper' when engaged, failing to distribute engagement forces effectively and providing inadequate support, leading to handling issues and potential contamination.
Innovation Solution
The development of discrete handles comprising a load-bearing element and a base element, where the load-bearing element is constructed with a unity piece of tear-resistant material and a strap that can be secured to the base element using adhesives or welding, allowing the strap to be lifted for gripping while preventing particles or fluids from entering the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plastic strap is glued between layers of web, then the handle can be attached to the container, but the handle detaches or zippering occurs when engaged
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into two separate elements: a base element that remains attached to the container and a load-bearing element that provides the gripping surface. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function, preventing the zippering issue while maintaining attachment reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element and load-bearing element are combined through adhesive bonding to form a unified handle structure. The adhesive layer connects the two elements while allowing them to function independently, resolving the contradiction between attachment reliability and engagement strength.
2Strength
If the handle is made with unity construction, then the handle provides adequate support, but the handle may allow particles or fluids to enter the container
Solution Approach 1:
An adhesive layer is introduced as an intermediary between the base element and the load-bearing element. This adhesive layer acts as a barrier that prevents particles and fluids from penetrating through the handle construction into the container, while still allowing the handle to provide adequate support.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle construction uses different materials and properties in different locations: the base element provides structural support while the adhesive layer provides contamination barrier functionality. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between support capability and contamination prevention.
3Ease of manufacture
If the strap is folded along its length, then the handle can be secured flush with the container surface, but the exposed portion becomes detached and difficult to grip
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the handle into a base element for mounting and a load-bearing element for gripping, the design allows the base element to be secured flush with the container surface while the load-bearing element extends outward to provide an ergonomic gripping surface, resolving both manufacturing ease and gripping ease.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed discrete handle articles comprise a load bearing element and a base element. The load bearing element of the discrete handle has a unity construction to distribute engagement forces along a broad area of the handle and the associated container and to prevent the handle from zippering the container. The base element of the discrete handle provides a support and can also provide sift proof surface to the load bearing element of the discrete handle.