Multi-Format Envelope With Fold Lines and Gluing Strips

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing envelopes are limited to a single format, requiring multiple purchases for different formats, which is inefficient and wasteful.

Innovation Solution

A multi-format envelope with transverse fold lines and gluing strips that allows conversion between C4, C5, and DL formats, facilitated by fold lines and adhesive strips for easy reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple envelope formats are purchased separately, then each format is optimized for its specific use, but it increases loss of substance and requires more storage space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvelope format versatilityVSAvoidmaterial waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The envelope is designed with multiple transverse fold lines that allow a single envelope to be transformed into different formats (C4, C5, DL), making one envelope universal for multiple uses that previously required separate envelopes for each format

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The envelope incorporates multiple transverse fold lines that segment the envelope body into different configuratable sections, allowing the user to create different format configurations from the same envelope structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple envelope formats are purchased separately, then each format is available when needed, but it increases loss of time and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvelope format versatilityVSAvoidtime to select and purchase correct format
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The envelope serves multiple format functions (C4, C5, DL) through foldable configurations, eliminating the need to search for or purchase the correct format envelope, thus saving time and improving productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of substance

If a single envelope is made transformable to multiple formats, then material waste is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to fold lines and gluing strips

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial wasteVSAvoidenvelope structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The envelope is divided into sections by transverse fold lines and gluing strips, allowing complex multi-format functionality to be achieved through simple segmented structural elements rather than a completely complex design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fold lines and gluing strip positions are pre-determined and built into the envelope structure during manufacturing, so the user does not need to plan or create the transformation structure themselves, reducing the operational complexity despite the enhanced functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If fold lines and gluing strips are added to enable format transformation, then envelope versatility is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvelope format versatilityVSAvoidenvelope manufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The manufacturing process is divided into distinct steps (placing fold lines, placing gluing strips) that can be independently executed, making the complex manufacturing task more manageable and suitable for automated production lines

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fold lines and gluing strips are positioned and prepared during the manufacturing process before the envelope reaches the user, so the complexity of creating these features is transferred to the manufacturing stage where it can be handled by machinery rather than requiring complex user assembly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 a single envelope to be transformed into multiple formats, optimizing usage and reducing waste by allowing easy conversion between standard sizes.

Implementation Method 1

it comprises at least one gluing strip on the rear face for gluing the folded envelope in said second format. The gluing strip is configured to glue faces of the envelope

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive bonding: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS12428199B2Multi-format envelope, method of manufacturing and using such an envelope
Publication Date: 2025.09.30 ABOU DIWAN TONY
  • US12428199B2 patent drawing
  • US12428199B2 patent drawing
  • US12428199B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An envelope includes a front face receiving a closing fold and a rear face, the envelope being in a first format. The envelope includes at least one transverse fold line configured to enable the envelope to be folded on itself on its rear face so as to form at least one second format. The envelope includes at least one gluing strip on the rear face for gluing the folded envelope in the second format. A process, a use, and packaging based on such an envelope is also provided.