Foldable hang tab

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hang tabs for merchandise display are not versatile enough to accommodate both hanging and shelf/table display options, and often require inclusion in merchandise packaging, limiting merchant flexibility and recyclability.

Innovation Solution

A foldable hang tab configuration that can be erected from a flat blank of paper, paperboard, or polymer board, featuring a hook and base design with interlocking mechanisms and adhesive options, allowing for attachment to merchandise or containers, and made from recyclable materials to match the container.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional hang tab is included in merchandise packaging, then hanging display is enabled, but versatility for both hanging and shelf display options is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay option versatilityVSAvoidpackaging structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hang tab is separated from the merchandise packaging as a distinct, removable component. The packaging includes a slot that receives the hang tab, allowing the tab to be detached and used independently for hanging display, while the packaging itself can be used for shelf display without the tab.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hang tab serves multiple functions: it enables hanging display when attached to packaging, can be used independently on merchandise without packaging, and the packaging can function independently for shelf display. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing versatility without requiring complex integrated structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a hang tab is included in merchandise packaging, then hanging display is enabled, but recyclability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay option versatilityVSAvoidrecyclability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the hang tab from the packaging, both components can be independently recycled according to their material types. The tab can be made from one material (e.g., paperboard) and the packaging from another (e.g., plastic or different paper type), allowing each to be processed in appropriate recycling streams without contamination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable hang tab design allows the tab to be detached and recovered separately from the packaging. This enables the tab to be recycled or reused independently, and the packaging to be recycled without the tab attached, improving overall material recovery rates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Adaptability or versatility

If a foldable hang tab structure is used, then versatility and recyclability are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay option versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The hang tab incorporates fold lines that allow it to transition from a flat 2D blank to a 3D erected structure. This dynamic transformation enables the tab to be manufactured as a simple flat piece that automatically forms the functional hanging structure through folding, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The foldable design changes the geometric parameters of the hang tab from a flat configuration to an erected 3D configuration with vertical and horizontal portions. This parameter change allows the same material to achieve different functional states without requiring complex manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Strength

If adhesive is used to attach the hang tab, then attachment strength is improved, but ease of removal and reusability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidremoval ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using adhesive over the entire attachment surface, the design uses adhesive only at specific locations (e.g., at the fold lines or at discrete points). This partial application provides sufficient attachment strength while leaving most surfaces free for easy removal and potential reuse.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The hang tab is designed as a low-cost component where minimal adhesive application is sufficient for its intended use lifecycle. The tab can be easily removed after use and discarded or recycled, making the small amount of adhesive used acceptable and not impacting overall ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS11717096B2Foldable hang tab

Publication Date: 2023.08.08 WYNALDA LITHO

AI summary

A foldable hang tab has a body that includes a hook extending from a base. The hook includes first and second hook portions disposed against one another and joined at a fold. The base includes first and second base portions that partially overlap one another or interlock. The disclosure provides a configuration wherein the base of the foldable hang tab body is configured to be adhered to merchandise or to a merchandise storage container. The disclosure also provides a configuration wherein the base is placed inside a merchandise storage container with the hook protruding through a slot defined by the container.