Integrated Unfoldable Separator for Packaging Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers with separators require separate manufacturing processes and are not optimally integrated, leading to inefficient compartmentalization and handling in packaging applications, especially in fruit and vegetable distribution.
Innovation Solution
A container design that integrates an unfoldable separator made from a single sheet, featuring an 'L'-shaped strip with strategically placed fold lines, allowing it to be folded and unfolded to create independent compartments without affecting stacking or nesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separators are made as independent elements from one or more sheets with cuts and fold lines, then compartmentalization is achieved, but manufacturing process complexity increases and integration with container is not optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The separator is integrated directly into the container structure as a single unified element obtained from one sheet, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing and assembly processes. The sheet contains both the container walls and the separator folds, allowing automatic assembly where the separator becomes an inherent part of the container during formation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separators are independent elements attached to container inside, then compartmentalization is provided, but handling efficiency decreases and stacking becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The separator is designed with fold lines that allow it to be dynamically collapsed into a compact configuration during stacking of empty containers, and then unfolded when needed for compartmentalization. This dynamic transformation enables the separator to adapt between two states: compact for storage/stacking and expanded for functional use.
3Ease of manufacture
If separators are integrated from single sheet with fold lines, then automatic assembly is enabled, but structural complexity of the sheet increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single sheet is segmented into distinct functional zones: container wall sections and separator sections, separated by fold lines. This segmentation allows the sheet to be automatically formed into three-dimensional container structures with integrated separators through controlled folding and joining operations, enabling automatic assembly while maintaining manageable sheet design.
Data Source
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Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Container with integrated separator, characterised in that the separator comprises an "L"-shaped strip (6) arranged attached to the inside of the container, in a folded position in which the vertical branch (3) thereof is arranged on one of the side walls thereof and it extends along the bottom, in which the horizontal branch (4) thereof is arranged with the end thereof fixed to the bottom. An end zone (13) of the vertical branch (3) is fixed to the side wall of the container, establishing an unfoldable wall by means of fold lines (8, 9, 10 and 11) from the folded position to an unfolded position forming adjacent compartments. This configuration enables the empty container to be stacked, and makes it possible to unfold the separator, providing product storage compartments to individualise objects that are the same or different, or to sectorise the content in a more uniform and regular manner.