Flexible Carrying Case With Gusseted Non-Shrinkable Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current paper-based packaging formats, such as shrink-wrapped trays and paperboard cartons, suffer from aesthetic issues, difficulty in handling, and poor moisture resistance, leading to potential tearing and spillage of contents, especially in outdoor or wet environments.
Innovation Solution
A thermoplastic flexible package design featuring non-shrinkable and shrinkable panels with gusset seals and handle perimeters, allowing for secure containment and easy handling of items while maintaining aesthetics and moisture resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shrink-wrapped paper-based trays are used for packaging, then items can be contained and displayed, but the shrink film causes distorted graphics and makes the package difficult to carry and read
Solution Approach 1:
The package is divided into multiple panels (front, back, sides, top, bottom) that are separately formed and then joined together through sealing. This segmentation allows each panel to be optimized for its specific function while avoiding the distortion problems of shrink-wrapping the entire package.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible thermoplastic panels instead of rigid paper-based materials with shrink film. These flexible panels can be sealed together to form a durable package that maintains its shape and graphics without distortion, while still providing containment and being easy to handle.
2Reliability
If paperboard cartons are used for packaging, then items can be contained and displayed, but the graphics are interrupted by folds and edges and the carton may tear when carried
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible thermoplastic panels that can be sealed to form a continuous surface without the folds and edges inherent in paperboard cartons. This eliminates graphic interruptions while maintaining containment strength and improving handleability.
Solution Approach 2:
The package uses composite thermoplastic materials that combine the benefits of flexibility, strength, and moisture resistance. These composite materials allow for seamless sealing and continuous graphics while providing durability against tearing during handling.
3Reliability
If paperboard cartons are used in outdoor environments with moisture, then items can be contained, but the carton does not withstand moisture well and can tear unexpectedly allowing contents to spill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite thermoplastic materials that inherently resist moisture while maintaining flexibility and strength. These materials do not degrade when exposed to moisture, preventing unexpected tearing and ensuring reliable containment in outdoor and wet environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters from paper-based (moisture-sensitive) to thermoplastic (moisture-resistant). This parameter change in material composition fundamentally improves the package's ability to withstand moisture without tearing while maintaining its containment function.
Data Source
AI summary
A thermoplastic flexible package includes a first non-shrinkable panel, an opposing second non-shrinkable panel, a first shrinkable panel and an opposing a second shrinkable panel. The panels are connected longitudinally with panel seals. The first non-shrinkable panel and the second non-shrinkable panel each forms a gusset. A first seal connects the first shrinkable panel and the second shrinkable panel in the transverse direction at or near the upper edges. A second seal that opposes the first seal connects the first and second non-shrinkable panels and the first and shrinkable panels in the transverse direction at or near the lower edges.