Modular box assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Packaging for temperature-sensitive contents faces challenges such as spoilage, destabilization, freezing, melting, or evaporation due to temperature extremes during storage or shipping, and existing insulated packages are often bulky, specialized, and non-recyclable, leading to inefficiencies and environmental issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular box assembly with insulated panels and a carrying accessory that can maintain temperature for hot, chilled, or frozen goods, featuring a collapsible design for space-efficient storage and transportation, and using recyclable materials to reduce waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional insulated packages are used to maintain temperature for sensitive goods, then temperature protection is provided, but the packages become bulky and difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The insulated package is divided into separable components: an insulated container and a removable insulation insert. The insulation wrap can be detached from the container, allowing the container to be stored in a compact state while the insulation component can be stored separately or reused for other purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The package transitions from a rigid, bulky form when assembled to a collapsible, compact form when disassembled. The side panels can fold inward and the top panel can be removed, transforming the three-dimensional insulated structure into a flat, space-efficient configuration for storage.
2Temperature
If specialized insulated packages are used for different temperature applications (hot, chilled, frozen), then appropriate temperature protection is provided, but shippers must maintain large stocks of specialized packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The insulated container is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate different types of insulation wraps and inserts. The standardized opening and attachment mechanisms allow the same container to be used with insulation appropriate for hot, chilled, or frozen goods, eliminating the need for separate specialized packages for each temperature application.
Solution Approach 2:
The package allows dynamic reconfiguration by removing and replacing insulation components. The same container can be adapted for different temperature requirements by swapping the insulation wrap or insert, providing versatility without requiring multiple specialized containers.
3Temperature
If traditional insulated packages are used, then temperature protection is provided, but the packages cannot be recycled and are disposed of in landfills
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation wrap and insert are designed to be separable from the container, allowing the insulation components to be recovered and reused for future shipments. The container can be reused multiple times with different insulation, reducing the need to discard entire packages after single use and minimizing landfill waste.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the reusable container from the insulation components, the design enables selective recycling and reuse. The container can be returned to service while insulation materials can be recovered for other uses, improving overall recyclability and reducing environmental impact compared to disposable insulated packages.
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
The modular box assembly effectively maintains temperature for sensitive goods, reduces storage and transportation bulk, and promotes recyclability, addressing the inefficiencies and environmental concerns of traditional packaging solutions.
Implementation Method 1
the channel tab frictionally engaging the first sub-shoulder and the second sub-shoulder to secure the support bracket within the shoulder channel
Implementation Method 2
the insulation wrap comprising an insulation batt; a first sheet; and a second sheet, the insulation batt encapsulated between the first sheet and the second sheet
Data Source
AI summary
A handle top includes a top panel defining a first side edge and a second side edge disposed opposite from the first side edge; a side panel, an inner edge of the side panel hingedly attached to the top panel at the first side edge; and a handle loop comprising a handle portion and a base portion, the base portion secured to the side panel.