Multi-Part Container Interlocking Tabs for Adhesive-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manufacture of paper bottles is complex and costly due to the use of adhesives, which are affected by environmental factors and result in low manufacturing output and reduced container strength, while existing cardboard connection techniques are limited to planar surfaces and can weaken the structure.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for mechanically connecting multiple parts of a container using inter-locking features such as tabs and slits, which are formed along the edges of the container parts to create a secure locking configuration without adhesives, allowing for recyclable and compostable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If adhesives are used to join container parts, then the container can be assembled, but the manufacturing process becomes slow and costly with low output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical adhesive system with a mechanical interlocking system using tabs and slots. The tabs on one container part insert into corresponding slots on another part, creating a secure mechanical connection that eliminates the need for adhesives. This mechanical substitution speeds up assembly and increases manufacturing output while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is divided into multiple separate parts that can be manufactured independently and then assembled through the tab-slot mechanism. This segmentation allows for parallel manufacturing of individual parts, increasing overall productivity, while the interlocking features ensure easy and secure assembly of the complete container.
2Ease of manufacture
If adhesives are used to join container parts, then the container can be assembled, but the process involves significant use of adhesives and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the time-consuming adhesive application and drying process with an immediate mechanical interlocking system. The tab-insertion-into-slot action provides instant structural connection without requiring adhesive application, spreading, or drying time, significantly reducing overall assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs and slots are pre-formed as integral features of the container parts during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for additional assembly steps such as adhesive application, and the parts are designed to fit together immediately upon insertion, reducing assembly time to a simple mechanical action.
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesives are used to join container parts, then the container can be assembled, but adhesive properties are affected by environmental factors reducing container strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the adhesive bonding system with a mechanical interlocking system that is not sensitive to environmental factors such as humidity and temperature. The tab-slot connection relies on geometric fit and mechanical engagement rather than chemical bonding, ensuring consistent container strength regardless of environmental conditions during assembly or use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the joining mechanism from chemical (adhesive bonding) to mechanical (physical interlocking). This parameter change eliminates the sensitivity to environmental factors that affect adhesive properties, as the mechanical interlocking strength depends on the geometry and material properties of the tabs and slots, which remain stable under varying environmental conditions.
4Ease of manufacture
If adhesive is applied to detailed path on pulp surface, then the parts can be joined, but the adhesive may force release of pulp surface layer ceasing to perform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the adhesive application system with a mechanical interlocking system that does not require contact with or bonding to the pulp surface. The tabs and slots are formed as structural features that interlock through geometric fit, eliminating the risk of adhesive causing pulp surface layer release and maintaining the structural integrity and performance of the pulp container parts.
5Ease of manufacture
If tabs are inserted into openings during engagement, then the parts can be connected, but it is difficult to operate without folding or creasing the tab which leads to weakness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature to the tab features, designing them with rounded or curved geometries rather than sharp angles. This curvature allows the tabs to flex and bend smoothly during insertion into slots, accommodating the deformation required for engagement without creating sharp creases or folds that would weaken the structure. The curved design distributes stress more evenly and maintains structural strength after assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An inter-connecting structure is provided for connecting multiple parts of a container. The inter-connecting structure comprises a first part comprising a plurality of inter-connecting tabs and slits on an edge; a second part comprising a plurality of inter-connecting tabs and slits on an edge to be joined with the edge of the first part; wherein the inter-connecting tabs and slits share an overlapping portion and once the two parts are connected to each other, the engaged inter-connecting tabs are disposed in an internal region of the container.