Foamed Hot Melt Adhesive for Container Pack Bonding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hot melt adhesive compositions face challenges in achieving a reliable bond between containers while also allowing for easy separation, especially under cold and wet conditions, and preventing adhesive run-down on containers.
Innovation Solution
A foamed hot melt adhesive composition is used, comprising a thermoplastic polymer, tackifying resin, and optional wax and plasticizer, applied as a foam to containers, which provides a strong bond and easy separation due to its reduced density and improved gap filling properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a higher adhesive force is used to provide a reliable bond between containers, then the bond strength is improved, but the ease of separation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical state of the adhesive from liquid to foam form. This changes the density, volume, and application characteristics of the adhesive, allowing it to provide sufficient bond strength while enabling easy separation through controlled foaming and expansion properties
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transitions by employing a foamed adhesive that expands after application. The adhesive transitions from a dense liquid state during application to a expanded foam state during bonding, creating a bond that is strong yet allows for easy separation through the unique properties of the foamed structure
2Strength
If a hot melt adhesive is applied to containers, then bonding is achieved, but adhesive run-down occurs on the container surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the adhesive by converting it to a foamed state. This reduces the density and viscosity of the adhesive during application, preventing run-down while maintaining bonding capability through the expanded foam structure that adheres to the container surface
Solution Approach 2:
The foamed structure acts as an intermediary between the adhesive and the container surface. The foam bubbles provide a structure that distributes the adhesive evenly, prevents excessive flow, and maintains bonding effectiveness without causing run-down issues
3Adaptability or versatility
If adhesive is applied under cold and wet conditions, then bonding can proceed, but bond reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using a foamed adhesive with modified physical properties that are less sensitive to temperature and moisture variations. The foam structure provides insulation and maintains adhesive effectiveness across a wider range of environmental conditions, ensuring reliable bonding even in cold and wet environments
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 foamed adhesive composition ensures a reliable bond between containers while allowing for easy separation, even under cold and wet conditions, and prevents adhesive run-down, enhancing the bonding process for container packs like six-packs.
Implementation Method 1
a foamed hot melt adhesive composition is used, comprising a thermoplastic polymer, tackifying resin, and optional wax and plasticizer, applied as a foam to containers
Implementation Method 2
Hot melt adhesive compositions are well known in the art. Such hot melt adhesives are typically solid at room temperature and are applied to a substrate when molten
Implementation Method 3
The adhesive cools and hardens to form a bond between the substrates
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a container pack comprising a plurality of containers, wherein the containers are bonded to each other with a foamed hot melt adhesive composition. In addition, the present invention also relates to the use of a foamed hot melt adhesive composition for bonding bundles of containers into packs.