Variable-Size Mailing Bag Packaging with Adhesive Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging machines are unable to efficiently package products of different sizes and shapes, particularly flexible items, using paper-like packaging material, as they require inherent rigidity and cannot adapt to varying dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A method and packaging machine that measures the dimensions of products, cuts and adjusts the packaging material accordingly, and uses a banderole-shaped packaging approach with machine-made closure seams to enclose items of varying sizes and shapes, ensuring minimal waste and efficient use of material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing packaging machines use conventional packaging methods with plastic films or opaque films, then packaging of flexible products is possible, but the packaging material cannot be easily opened and resealed, and sustainability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of closure mechanism from permanent thermal bonding (plastic films) to reversible mechanical fastening (adhesive strips with peel-off capability). This allows the packaging to maintain security during transport while enabling easy opening and resealing for returns or inspections.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging combines paper-based mailing bag material with removable adhesive strip material, creating a composite structure that leverages the sustainability and rigidity of paper while incorporating the controlled adhesion properties of the adhesive strips for secure yet reversible closure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If packaging machines are designed for rigid products only, then packaging process is simple, but flexible products of various sizes and shapes cannot be packaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities to the packaging machine, including variable web feed rates, adjustable cutting positions, and programmable sealing parameters. This allows the machine to adapt to different product dimensions and packaging requirements without requiring complete redesign for each product type.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging machine is designed with multi-functional capabilities to handle various product types (rigid, flexible, different sizes) using a single device. The system incorporates adjustable parameters and programmable controls that enable it to perform multiple packaging functions across different product categories.
3Loss of substance
If packaging material is cut to exact product dimensions, then material waste is minimized, but packaging precision and alignment become more difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system incorporates automatic measurement and adjustment mechanisms that self-correct for alignment variations. The machine measures the actual product dimensions and automatically adjusts the cutting and sealing positions, eliminating the need for manual precision alignment while minimizing material waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors and measurement devices to monitor packaging material positioning and product dimensions in real-time. This feedback is used to dynamically adjust cutting and sealing parameters, ensuring precise alignment and minimal waste without requiring pre-calibrated manual settings.
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
Enables the automatic packaging of products with different dimensions in a chaotic sequence, reducing material waste and providing a sustainable, rigid packaging solution that can be easily opened and closed, with the option for resealing, while allowing for direct address printing on the packaging.
Implementation Method 1
The connection of the packaging material web ends on the upper side can take place by means of a glue, in particular hot glue or an adhesive
Implementation Method 2
the packaging is transported further and then closed on the open long sides with a closing seam that is made by machine using a thread
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 4~4E
AI summary
For the automated production of a shipping bag (17) of variable size containing a packaged item (3) of variable size, the packaged item (3) is transported horizontally to a vertical packaging material web (10') and moved in the transport direction (4) of the packaged item (3) into the packaging material web (10') perpendicular to the transport direction (4), so that the packaged item (3) comes to lie on the packaging material web (10') during further transport. Subsequently, a first lower packaging material web end (27) is arranged above the packaged item (3) in the transport direction (4), and a second upper packaging material web end (28) is placed on top of the first lower material web end (27), or vice versa, and joined together, so that a band-shaped packaging material wrapper (23) with two opposing open longitudinal sides pointing transversely to the transport direction (4) is created.and the packaging material envelope (23) is transported further with the packaged goods (3) and then sealed at the open longitudinal sides with a sealing seam (21). Excess packaging material (10) is cut off on both sides of the sealing seam (21) on the side facing away from the packaged goods (3), parallel to the sealing seam (21). (Figure 1)