Shipping Package Test Assembly Scuff and Belt Burn Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Shipping packages, especially non-rigid and flexible ones, often become worn or broken during transportation due to the rough shipping environment, leading to damage or loss of items, with existing methods failing to effectively test and validate their durability and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A shipping package test assembly comprising a scuff test sub-assembly with an inclined plane and objects, a belt burn test sub-assembly with a movable plate, and conveyors that simulate the transportation conditions, allowing for repeated testing of packages in various orientations to assess their resistance to wear, scuffs, and punctures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If shipping packages are made more durable to withstand rough transportation, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by conducting durability tests on shipping packages before they are deployed for actual transportation. The test assembly simulates rough handling conditions in advance, allowing packages to be validated for durability prior to use, thus ensuring reliability without requiring all packages to be over-engineered from the start.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying test conditions such as incline angle, object placement configurations, and conveyor speeds to comprehensively evaluate package durability. This allows optimization of package design parameters based on test results rather than using excessive protective measures in all cases.
2Reliability
If comprehensive testing of shipping packages is implemented, then reliability is improved, but time and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action through automated conveyor systems that continuously move packages through various test stations without interruption. The automated plate movement and object manipulation occur continuously as packages pass through, eliminating idle time between test phases and maximizing testing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the comprehensive durability test into distinct modular sub-assemblies: inclined plane section, object manipulation section, conveyor sections, and plate movement section. Each segment performs a specific testing function, allowing parallel processing of multiple test parameters simultaneously and reducing overall testing time.
3Productivity
If automated testing systems are used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the test assembly with multi-functional components. For example, the inclined plane serves both as a gravity feed mechanism and as a test surface for scuffing. The conveyor system simultaneously transports packages and provides a moving surface for belt burn tests. The automated plate serves multiple positions including blocking package movement and allowing conveyor contact. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate automated devices needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through gravity-fed package movement on the inclined plane, which eliminates the need for motors or actuators to push packages through certain sections. The automated plate uses simple positional changes rather than complex mechanisms to control package-conveyor interaction. Objects on the inclined plane automatically contact packages through gravity and momentum, requiring no active control systems.
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 solution validates the adequacy of shipping packages, reduces damage and loss, optimizes packaging material use, and enhances environmental safety by objectively evaluating and selecting suitable packaging for items, thereby minimizing waste and labor efforts.
Implementation Method 1
The inclined plane has a first end raised above a second end... conveying the shipping package down an inclined plane
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the conveyors includes belts... the belt can be a first belt to transport the shipping package on the ramp
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an assembly for testing a shipping package are described. The assembly includes a scuff test sub-assembly, a belt burn test sub-assembly, and multiple conveyors positioned between to the sub-assemblies to convey a shipping package through the assembly. The scuff test sub-assembly includes an inclined plane and multiple objects which extend outward from the inclined plane. The belt burn test sub-assembly includes a plate that moves over a portion of one of the conveyors. The plate moves between a first position which obstructs movement of the shipping package but permits movement of the one of the conveyors relative to the shipping package and a second position where movement of the shipping package along the conveyor is not obstructed. At least two of the conveyors meet at a junction to change an orientation of the shipping package as the shipping package is conveyed across the junction.