Multijointed Packaging Testing Device for Consumer Motion Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a testing device that can accurately measure the performance characteristics of alternative packaging configurations, particularly those aiming to reduce or eliminate plastic use, by simulating the forces experienced when items are separated from a packaged assembly, as existing methods often only measure linear forces and do not accurately represent consumer handling motions.
Innovation Solution
A multijointed testing device with a base and arm system, featuring pivotally connected branches and an attachment mechanism, driven by a motor, which can move in various motions (linear, circular, etc.) to mimic consumer separation actions, incorporating load cells, strain gauges, and motion capture devices to measure forces and motions accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing testing methods are used, then the testing device structure is simple, but the measurement precision is insufficient because they only measure linear forces and do not accurately represent consumer handling motions
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is divided into multiple freely pivotally connected branches (first branch, second branch, third branch) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the testing device to simulate complex consumer handling motions while maintaining a modular structure that is relatively easy to manufacture and assemble.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device transitions from a static or simply moving structure to a dynamic multi-degree-of-freedom system. The freely pivotal connections between branches allow the arm to adapt its motion path dynamically, accurately representing the variable forces experienced during consumer separation actions.
2Loss of substance
If alternative packaging configurations with less material are used, then the loss of substance is reduced, but the strength is compromised making it difficult to separate items without breaking the packaging
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device enables systematic variation and optimization of packaging parameters (material type, thickness, structural configuration) while measuring their effect on performance. This allows developers to find the optimal balance between reducing material usage and maintaining sufficient strength for consumer separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device provides quantitative feedback on packaging performance by measuring forces during separation attempts. This feedback loop allows for iterative optimization of alternative packaging designs, enabling developers to adjust material and structural parameters based on measured performance data.
Data Source
AI summary
A testing device including a base having a first joint and an arm. The arm has a first branch connected to and pivotable about the first joint, a second joint connected to the first branch, a second branch connected to and pivotable about the second joint, a third joint connected to the second branch, and a third branch connected to and pivotable about the third joint. The third branch can have an attachment mechanism. The first joint is configured to drive movement of the arm through rotation of the first joint.