Flexible Container Segmentation for Bulk Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for chemical-pharmaceutical solids are expensive and inflexible, particularly during internal and external transport, storage, and complex mixing processes, necessitating a need for improved handling and containment solutions.
Innovation Solution
A flexible container with integrated containment interfaces and a handling frame that allows for easy unfolding, filling, and folding, featuring fastening means, special wall structures, and a stable framework with movable engagement elements for secure positioning during mixing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional containers are used for chemical-pharmaceutical solids, then containment is provided, but handling is complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into an outer supporting fabric structure and an inner foil bundle (liner), allowing the rigid containment function to be separated from the flexible storage function. This segmentation enables simple handling of the outer structure while maintaining safe containment through the inner liner.
Solution Approach 2:
The container uses a flexible outer supporting fabric with integrated fastening means that can be easily unfolded and folded, combined with a thin inner foil liner for containment. This flexible shell design eliminates complex rigid structures while maintaining containment integrity for hazardous substances.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional mixing processes are used, then mixing is achieved, but the process is expensive and inflexible
Solution Approach 1:
The container design allows dynamic adaptation between different states (folded for transport, unfolded for filling, open for mixing). The fastening means enable the container to be easily configured for different operations including mixing, eliminating the need for complex dedicated mixing systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible container with containment interface can serve multiple functions: transport container, storage vessel, and mixing system. The integrated design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment, providing universal applicability across different operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If rigid containment structures are used, then safety is maintained, but handling and folding is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The containment system is segmented into a flexible outer structure with fastening means and a separate inner foil liner. The outer structure provides easy folding and handling, while the inner liner maintains containment safety for hazardous substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The container combines different materials with complementary properties: an outer supporting fabric material that is flexible and foldable, and an inner foil material that provides impermeable containment. This composite structure achieves both handling ease and containment safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a flexible container (1, 1', 1", 1'') which, in the open state, is intended to assume a cubic and/or one- or two-sided pyramidal shape, suitable for receiving, transporting and storing bulk materials, with at least three side surfaces (11, 11', 11", 11'') which together enclose a filling space around a filling axis (F), which filling space is closed or can be closed at the top and bottom by a base surface (12'), an interface (10) or by a point collision of the side surfaces (11, 11', 11", 11''), at least one edge connecting element (6.1') is attached to at least one side and/or base surface (12') of the container (1') per side edge (6.1') and at least one internal connecting element (9') is attached in the interior area (4'), and/or extends along at least one longitudinal line (6.2) at least two opposite side surfaces (11) of the container (1), extending completely or intermittently over their at least approximately complete edge lengths, have extension connecting means as suspensions, and connecting means are provided which firstly serve to be able to attach the container (1, 1', 1", 1"') in the open state to a frame (15), and/or secondly serve as a pulling means to bring the still empty, flattened container (1, 1', 1", 1"') into the open state with a single movement, and/or to bring the emptied, still open container (1, 1', 1", 1"') back into a flattened state with a single movement, wherein a folding structure (26) is incorporated into at least one of the side surfaces (11, 11', 11", 11"').