Multipackage Applicator Indexing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for applying flexible carriers to groups of containers are time-consuming, inconsistent, and often require expensive, large, and unwieldy equipment, making them unsuitable for low-volume, hand-operated applications in retail environments.
Innovation Solution
A device with a base and indexing pins that allows flexible carriers to be easily applied to containers by inserting them into pockets, eliminating the need for stretching the carrier over the containers, which reduces the stretch requirement and simplifies the process with a passive applicator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional hand-operated devices (pencil-sized shoe horn device) are used to stretch individual apertures of flexible carriers into engagement with individual containers, then the carrier can be applied to containers, but the process is time-consuming and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple aperture stretching operations into a single unified action. The base simultaneously holds multiple containers while the flexible carrier is stretched across all apertures at once, combining what were previously sequential individual operations into one synchronized action, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary positioning of containers in the base before carrier application. Containers are prearranged in specific positions within the base, and the flexible carrier is pre-stretched across all apertures before engagement, eliminating the need for sequential stretching operations during the actual application process
2Ease of operation
If table-top fixtures with large pivoting cantilevered handles are used to stretch the carrier into position, then the carrier can be applied to containers, but the fixtures are large, expensive and unwieldy
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the carrier stretching function into a compact base structure with integrated container holders. Instead of one large cantilevered handle system, the stretching action is distributed across multiple smaller container-holding positions in the base, each contributing to the overall carrier engagement, thereby reducing overall device complexity and size
Solution Approach 2:
The containers are nested within pockets of the base structure, which itself is nested within a compact footprint. The flexible carrier encompasses both the base and containers, creating a nested arrangement where the carrier stretching action occurs within a confined space, eliminating the need for large external handles
3Ease of operation
If flexible carriers are stretched significantly to engage with containers, then the carrier can be applied to containers, but the stretch requirement increases operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The device changes the geometric parameters of the base and container positioning to reduce the required stretch distance. By optimizing the spacing between container pockets and the aperture positions in the flexible carrier, the design minimizes the elastic deformation needed, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining effective carrier engagement
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 device enables efficient and consistent unitization of containers with lower carrier stretch, reducing operational complexity and costs, while allowing for customizable packaging options for retailers and consumers.
Implementation Method 1
Flexible plastic ring carriers may be used to unitize groups of four, six, eight, twelve or other suitable groups of containers into a convenient multipackage
Data Source
AI summary
A device for applying a flexible carrier to a plurality of containers includes a base with a plurality of pockets and an indexing means and a carrier having a series of indexing features that correspond with the indexing means for placement of the carrier relative to the base, wherein a container may be inserted into one of the plurality of pockets of the base for desired alignment within the carrier.