Hinge-Lid Package Rounded Edges Groove Pattern Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hinge-lid packages for rod-shaped smoking articles have angular edges that do not fit well in the hand and lack aesthetic appeal, even when modified with rounded edges.

Innovation Solution

A package design featuring a box body with rounded edges formed by a groove pattern on the inner surface, creating a unique outer design and flexibility, along with reinforcing patches to maintain structural integrity and ease of opening/closing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If rounded edges are formed by notch lines on the inner surface, then the package fits well in the hand, but the appearance becomes plain and simple

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehand fitVSAvoidappearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different groove patterns to different local regions of the rounded edge. Specifically, it uses a first groove pattern in a first region and a second groove pattern different from the first in a second region, creating local variations in texture and design while maintaining the overall rounded shape for comfortable handling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The rounded edge is divided into multiple regions (first region and second region), each with distinct groove patterns. This segmentation allows different portions of the same rounded edge to have different aesthetic characteristics while collectively providing both comfort and visual appeal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If angular edges are used, then the package structure is simple, but it does not fit well in the hand

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehand fitVSAvoidedge structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces angular edges with rounded edges that have arc-like cross-sections. This curvature transformation improves hand fit and comfort while the groove patterns added to the rounded surfaces provide structural definition without requiring complex three-dimensional forms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Shape

If groove patterns are formed only in the inner surface of rounded edges, then the outer surface remains smooth, but the structural integrity may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesmooth outer surfaceVSAvoidedge strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The groove patterns formed in the inner surface of the rounded edges create flexible zones that allow the thin package material to bend and conform to the rounded shape while maintaining structural integrity. The grooves act as stress distribution features that prevent cracking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS10059505B2Package of rod-shaped smoking articles and a blank for the package

Publication Date: 2018.08.28 JAPAN TOBACCO INC

AI summary

A hinge-lid package has a box body (8) and a lid (6) which are formed from a blank. The box body (8) and the lid (6) have rounded edges (16 and 18) as longitudinal edges thereof. The rounded edge (16 and 18) has an arc-like shape created by a groove pattern formed only in the inner surface of the rounded edge. The groove pattern makes the corresponding lattice design (F) appear in the outer surface of the rounded edge (16 and 18).