Closed-Cell Foam Partition for Class A Surface Protection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dunnage partitions can damage Class A surface parts due to rigidity and lack of flexibility, and they often have sharp edges that pose safety hazards and are prone to dust contamination and fiber adhesion.

Innovation Solution

A partition made of closed-cell foam with a three-layered structure, using a lightweight, energy-absorbing inner layer and a durable outer layer, which is water-resistant and free of fibers and adhesives, allowing for curved cell formation and improved ergonomics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional rigid partitions are used to support and separate goods, then structural strength and separation capability are improved, but surface damage to Class A parts occurs due to sharp edges and lack of flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidsurface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The partition is constructed as a composite structure with an inner corrugated纸板 layer providing structural strength and an outer foam layer providing surface protection. This composite design allows the partition to maintain rigidity for structural support while the foam surface prevents damage to Class A parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

An outer layer of foam material is applied over the rigid corrugated纸板 structure. This foam shell provides flexibility and softness at the surface level, preventing direct contact between sharp edges and the parts, while the underlying rigid structure maintains structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Stability of the object's composition

If rigid dividers are used to maintain separation of goods, then compartmentalization effectiveness is improved, but worker safety deteriorates due to sharp edges

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecompartmentalizationVSAvoidworker safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The foam outer layer covers all sharp edges and corners of the rigid divider structure, creating a safe surface for worker handling while preserving the underlying structural integrity needed for effective compartmentalization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The combination of rigid corrugated纸板 for structural stability and soft foam for safety creates a dual-function partition that maintains compartmentalization effectiveness while eliminating safety hazards from sharp edges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional partition materials like cardboard and plastic are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but dust contamination and fiber adhesion occur on part surfaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoiddust contamination
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The foam outer layer replaces traditional adhesive-based bonding methods. The foam is applied as a continuous layer that cures to form a clean, adhesive-free surface that does not shed fibers or create dust contamination, while the inner corrugated layer provides the structural framework.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The foam coating creates a smooth, non-porous surface that prevents particle trapping and eliminates fiber shedding issues associated with traditional cardboard and plastic materials, providing a clean surface for Class A parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 foam partitions effectively protect Class A surface parts by providing flexible support, reducing the risk of damage and improving worker safety while being resistant to dust and chemicals, and are easily processed into dunnage sets.

Implementation Method 1

The partition is made of closed-cell foam which provides structural support and energy absorption

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBuoyancy: Archimedes' Principle (Buoyancy)

Implementation Method 2

lightweight, energy-absorbing inner layer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEnergy absorption: Damping

Implementation Method 3

water-resistant

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydrophobicity: Hydrophobe

Data Source

PatentUS10059091B2Partition
Publication Date: 2018.08.28 ORBIS CORP
  • US10059091B2 patent drawing
  • US10059091B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A partition is disclosed having a two sided lamination thereon for protecting products in containers and bins.