Oval Cross-Section Multi-Serve Container Blow Molding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-serve containers with rectangular cross-sections face limitations in the blow molding process due to physical constraints on preform diameter, leading to larger thread finishes and increased material usage, which affects material weight and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The development of multi-serve polymeric containers with an oval cross-section and a finish diameter of 38 mm or less, formed through a two-step blow molding process, allowing for reduced preform diameter and material usage while maintaining a volume capacity of 59 oz to 96 oz.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a rectangular cross-section is used in multi-serve containers, then the container can be formed with sufficient structural integrity, but the preform diameter must be large enough to reach the far corners during blow molding, resulting in larger thread finishes and increased material usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by transitioning from a rectangular cross-section to an oval cross-section for the container body. This curved geometry eliminates the far corners problem in rectangular designs, allowing the preform to be stretched more efficiently during blow molding without requiring excessive preform diameter or resulting in thick material at corners.
2Reliability
If the preform body diameter is increased to accommodate rectangular cross-section blow molding, then the container can be formed without material failure, but the thread finish diameter increases and material weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The oval cross-section with curved surfaces allows for more uniform stress distribution during blow molding, maintaining process reliability without requiring oversized preforms. The curved geometry eliminates stress concentration at corners, enabling the use of smaller preform diameters that directly translate to smaller thread finishes and reduced material weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the container cross-section from rectangular to oval, which fundamentally alters the blow molding process requirements. This parameter change allows for optimized preform dimensions that reduce both thread finish size and overall material consumption while maintaining forming reliability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rectangular cross-section is used, then the container provides stable stacking and storage, but the corner areas require excess material thickness to prevent failure during stretching
Solution Approach 1:
The oval cross-section with continuously curved surfaces eliminates the corner regions that require excess material in rectangular designs. The curved geometry distributes stretching forces uniformly throughout the container wall, allowing for consistent, reduced material thickness throughout the structure while maintaining structural integrity and stacking stability through the overall container form.
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
This design results in lighter containers with reduced material weight, smaller thread finishes, and improved labeling flexibility, enabling easier orientation during conveying processes and reduced material thickness.
Implementation Method 1
When a preform is blow molded into a multi-serve container it must be stretched radially as it is formed into the final container shape of the blow mold
Implementation Method 2
blow molding a PET preform against a mold heated to a temperature of approximately 250° F.-350° F. (approximately 121° C.-177° C.), and holding the blown container against the heated mold for approximately two (2) to five (5) seconds
Implementation Method 3
Thermal processing involves heating the material (either amorphous or semi-crystalline) to promote crystal growth
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-serve polymeric container having a finish defining an opening of the container, a body, and a base. The body and the base have a substantially oval shape in cross-section, which enables the use of smaller finishes and provides for lighter weight containers.