Extensible Frame for Measuring Container Bulge
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of industry-wide accepted methods and apparatus for accurately measuring container bulge, which affects the understanding of its impact on structural integrity and packing densities, especially when containers are aggregated on pallets.
Innovation Solution
An extensible frame with sensor assemblies is used to measure container bulge by applying a load and detecting deflections along multiple axes, with the frame designed to accommodate various container sizes and materials, and the output processed for human or machine readability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed frame is used for measuring container bulge, then the measurement structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate various sizes of containers
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed with movable and adjustable components that allow it to dynamically adapt to different container sizes. The frame can be reconfigured through movement and adjustment mechanisms, transforming from a static structure to a dynamic one that accommodates various container dimensions while maintaining measurement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into multiple independent segments or components that can be individually adjusted and repositioned. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for different container sizes, enabling the overall frame to adapt versatility without requiring complete redesign, thus balancing complexity and adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If sensor assemblies are positioned away from the container surface, then the measurement apparatus is simpler to operate, but measurement precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A platen is introduced as an intermediary component between the sensor assembly and the container surface. The platen transmits the deflection force from the container panel to the sensor, enabling accurate measurement without requiring the sensor to be in direct contact with the container. This intermediary simplifies sensor positioning while maintaining measurement precision through effective force transmission.
3Reliability
If the frame is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then measurement reliability is improved, but adaptability to different container configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates dynamic elements that allow it to change its configuration while maintaining structural integrity during measurement. The frame can be adjusted between different configurations for various container types, and during actual measurement, the rigid portions provide stability while movable portions allow adaptation, balancing reliability and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the frame have different rigidity characteristics optimized for their specific functions. Critical measurement areas maintain rigid structures for reliability, while adjustment and positioning areas use more flexible components for adaptability. This local differentiation of structural properties allows the frame to simultaneously achieve measurement reliability and configuration flexibility.
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
This solution provides precise and reproducible measurements of container bulge, enabling better understanding and evaluation of structural integrity and packing efficiency, even in palletized configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a deflection of the panel induces displacement of the platen and a sensor for converting the displacement of the platen into a signal readable by the output processing unit
Data Source
AI summary
An extensible frame adapted to receive and maintain a rectilinear container applied upon an interior ledge extensible frame. Two or more orthogonally aligned sensor assemblies are provided to measure deflection of panels forming the container when a static or dynamic load is applied upon an uppermost panel. Each sensor assembly outputs a signal corresponding to a deflection of a panel induced by the load applied upon the uppermost panel. Signals output from the sensor assemblies are received and processed by an output processing unit in either a human cognizable or machine readable format. The amount deflection measured by the sensor assemblies corresponds to an amount of bulge of a panel when a defined load is applied.