Nesting Package with Protrusions and Indentations for Shock Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging solutions lack efficient nesting and shock absorption capabilities, leading to instability and increased damage during distribution and storage of items.
Innovation Solution
The design of packages with specific topographies featuring protrusions and indentations that allow for nesting and shock absorption, creating sway space to protect items from impact and prevent sliding, while also optimizing volumetric efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If packages are designed with flat surfaces for stacking, then shipping density is improved, but shock absorption capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The package surfaces feature complementary protrusions and indentations that nest together when packages are stacked. The protrusions on one package fit into the indentations of adjacent packages, creating an interlocking nested structure that enables both dense stacking and shock absorption through the deformation of these nested features during impact events.
Solution Approach 2:
The package surfaces incorporate localized topographic features (protrusions and indentations) that provide shock absorption specifically at the stacking interfaces, while maintaining overall compact dimensions. The local deformation of these features absorbs shock energy without requiring the entire package structure to be larger or less dense.
2Reliability
If packages include shock absorbing features, then item protection is improved, but nesting capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shock absorption features and nesting features are merged into a single integrated structure. The same protrusions and indentations that enable nesting also serve as the shock absorption mechanism, eliminating the need for separate features and allowing both functions to coexist without compromising nesting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The topographic features on the package surfaces serve multiple functions simultaneously: they enable nesting by fitting together like puzzle pieces, provide shock absorption through localized deformation, and create sway space for item protection. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the shock absorption features also the nesting features.
3Productivity
If packages are designed with protrusions and indentations for nesting, then volumetric efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process utilizes parameter changes in the material (from 2D sheet to 3D formed structure) to create the nesting features. Through forming, molding, or stamping processes, the flat sheet material is transformed into the desired topographic features, enabling complex geometries to be manufactured from simple starting materials without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A package for enclosing at least one item is disclosed. The package includes a first portion having a first surface including at least one protrusion, a second portion having a second surface including at least one indentation, and a hinge connecting the first portion to the second portion. The hinge is configured to allow the package to transition from an open position to a closed position. In the closed position the first portion and the second portion define an enclosed space for enclosing an item. The at least one protrusion and the at least one indentation may provide cushioning and shock absorption for the package and/or may allow the package to nest with another package stacked above or below the package.