Recyclable Fiber Cushioning with Transverse Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing package cushioning materials lack sufficient rigidity transverse to their longitudinal axis, which can lead to inadequate protection against impact and vibration during shipment, and they are not recyclable like expandable polystyrene (EPS).
Innovation Solution
A package cushioning design featuring a base member with a downwardly open half-tube structure and hump-shaped support members forming an upwardly open channel section, made from waste paper fiber material, where the low point inside the channel is spaced greater than the wall thickness from the high point, enhancing transverse rigidity without increasing cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional package cushioning materials are used, then cushioning function is provided, but rigidity transverse to longitudinal axis is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a three-dimensional channel section structure within the cushioning body, creating internal spatial geometry that increases transverse rigidity. The channel section extends through the cushioning element, providing structural reinforcement in the transverse direction without adding external complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushioning element incorporates a channel section that creates a porous or hollow internal structure within the fiber material. This internal geometry enhances rigidity while maintaining the cushioning function, as the channel section resists transverse deformation without compromising the material's ability to absorb impact.
2Strength
If rigid structural elements are added to increase transverse rigidity, then protection improves, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The channel section is integrated directly into the cushioning element during manufacturing, combining the cushioning function and the structural reinforcement function into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate rigid elements and reduces assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the internal geometry parameters of the cushioning element by introducing the channel section with specific dimensions and positioning. This changes the structural properties to enhance transverse rigidity while maintaining compatibility with existing manufacturing processes for fiber-based cushioning materials.
Data Source
AI summary
A package cushioning for padding an article to be packaged in an outer box includes a base body in the form of a downwardly open half tube. On the outside thereof are attached opposing hump-shaped support members, which protrude beyond the half-tube on the upper side of the base body. Opposing surfaces of the support members and their transitions each form an upwardly open channel section on the package cushioning. The entire package cushioning is made in one piece with an average wall thickness W from a waste paper fiber material. A low point on the inside of the upwardly open channel section is spaced by the distance from the high point on the inside of the downwardly open half tube, the distance being greater than the simple wall thickness.