Self-Supporting Suspension Loops for Flexible Bulk Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
The handling of large flexible bulk containers is hazardous due to the need for human intervention in hooking and unhooking suspension loops, which can lead to accidents, especially at heights, and requires specialized equipment for lifting and compressing.
Innovation Solution
A flexible storage device with self-supporting suspension loops and a connecting means that allows for automatic hooking and unhooking by a single lifting system, eliminating the need for human intervention and ensuring compatibility with press packaging devices while maintaining compressibility and recyclability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional suspension loops are used with multiple chains and carabiners, then the lifting function is achieved, but the operation complexity increases and safety risks arise due to manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple suspension loops and multiple lifting chains into a single integrated system. The container has four corner loops that are simultaneously engaged by a single lifting beam with four hooks, which is then lifted by one hydraulic/motorized chain system. This merging eliminates the need for separate carabiners and manual hooking operations for each loop.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system is designed to automatically engage with the container's suspension loops without requiring manual intervention. The hydraulic/motorized chain system self-activates to lift the container, and the suspension loops are positioned and shaped to automatically align with the lifting beam hooks, eliminating the need for operators to manually hook chains and carabiners.
2Productivity
If manual hooking and unhooking operations are performed at height, then the container can be loaded and unloaded, but the risk of accidents increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical hooking/unhooking operation with an automated hydraulic/motorized lifting system. The chain system is controlled remotely or automatically, eliminating the need for operators to physically reach high positions to manipulate chains and carabiners. The lifting action is performed by powered mechanisms rather than human force.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting beam acts as an intermediary device between the container and the lifting chain system. It provides a safe intermediate platform that distributes the lifting force to multiple points on the container simultaneously, eliminating the need for operators to work at height with individual chains and carabiners.
3Volume of moving object
If the container is compressed for transport, then the storage space is optimized, but the suspension loops must maintain structural integrity under compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different structural qualities to different parts of the suspension system. The suspension loops are made from high-strength, stiff material (such as steel wire or rigid plastic) that can withstand compression forces, while the lifting chains use flexible high-strength links. The corner reinforcement zones where loops attach to the container are locally strengthened to prevent deformation under compression.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension loops are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to flex and adapt during compression while maintaining their load-bearing capacity. The loops can deform elastically under compression forces and return to their original shape, preventing permanent damage while maintaining structural integrity during the compression process.
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 solution simplifies handling operations, reduces the risk of accidents, and maximizes storage capacity by enabling quick and automatic connection/disconnection of suspension loops, ensuring safe and efficient handling and compression of the containers.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element, slender, in semi-rigid material rigid, extending in length along the strap and of stiffness such that said elastic element cooperates with said strap in order to maintain the suspension loop in the self-supporting position
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a storage device (1), for the packaging of bulk materials comprising: - a flexible container (2), defined at least by a bottom wall (20) and side walls (21, 22, 23, 24), forming a material storage volume, - flexible suspension loops (3, 4), in the upper part of the container intended for lifting, said storage device (1) being flexible and able to move from a storage position, substantially folded flat to a position of use substantially in volume. According to the invention, said suspension loops (3, 4) have a stiffness such that the suspension loops are self-supporting, in said position of use in volume of the container, by extending in projection above the flexible container.