Integrated Corner Lock Assembly for Linear Component Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional protective material applications are often time-consuming and require excessive manpower, making them inefficient for packaging and shipping processes, especially in high-speed packaging environments and for individuals moving frequently.
Innovation Solution
The development of integrated corner locks formed from a unitary blank that can be efficiently installed without adhesives, using a foldable material like corrugated cardboard, which includes slots and flaps to retain linear components, providing a retention force and ensuring secure placement without additional locking features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional protective material application techniques are used, then protection is provided, but installation is time-consuming and requires excessive manpower
Solution Approach 1:
The protective material is divided into modular components including corner locks, linear components, and adhesive pads that can be independently assembled and applied to different sections of the item, enabling parallel installation by multiple workers and reducing overall installation time
Solution Approach 2:
The corner locks are pre-formed with integrated adhesive pads and retention features during manufacturing, eliminating the need for on-site assembly or additional fastening operations during installation, thereby reducing manpower requirements and installation time
2Reliability
If conventional protective material application techniques are used, then protection is provided, but the process is difficult to apply
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into discrete components (corner locks, linear components, adhesive pads) that are individually easy to handle and apply, reducing the complexity of the installation process compared to applying large sheets of conventional protective material
Solution Approach 2:
The corner locks incorporate self-retaining features including flaps that apply retention force and integrated adhesive pads that automatically bond to surfaces, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, adhesives, or complex fastening procedures during installation
3Reliability
If adhesive or locking features are used to secure protective material, then retention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive pad and retention features are merged into a single integrated corner lock component, eliminating the need for separate adhesives, fasteners, or locking mechanisms while maintaining secure attachment and retention of the protective material
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
This solution allows for rapid and cost-effective installation of protective assemblies, reducing the need for extensive labor and minimizing the risk of accidental disassembly during transit or handling, enabling efficient packaging and shipping processes.
Implementation Method 1
The integrated corner lock may include one or more flaps that may apply a retention force on the one or more linear components
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a packaging assembly that may include a blank for forming a corner lock. The blank for forming the corner lock may include a first body panel foldably connected to a side panel, a second body panel foldably connected to the side panel, where the first and second body panels may be foldable about the side panel to form a slot within the corner lock in an assembled position. The blank may further include a first and second locking panel foldably connected to the first body panel, and a third and fourth locking panel which may be foldably connected to the second body panel.