Packaging Gussets for Container Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packages for holding containers lack efficient retention and shaping features to securely accommodate containers of various shapes and sizes, leading to suboptimal protection and display.
Innovation Solution
A package design featuring a top panel with receptacles, foldable side and end panels, and gusset panels that facilitate secure enclosure and conform to the shape of containers, with retention features like tabs and slits to support and retain containers, and adhesive for secure assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional panel structures are used without gusset features, then the package structure is simpler, but the ability to conform to containers of various shapes and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The package structure is divided into separate functional components: top panel, side panels, end panels, and gusset panels. Each segment serves a specific purpose - the gusset panels provide conformability to various container shapes while the main panels provide structural support, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Gusset panels are added as an additional dimensional element connecting the top and side panels. These panels extend in a direction perpendicular to the main panels, creating a three-dimensional conforming structure that adapts to container shapes without requiring complex modifications to the basic panel design.
2Reliability
If retention features are added to secure containers, then the retention capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Retention features such as tabs and receptacles are pre-formed as integral parts of the blank during manufacturing. The tabs extend from the top panel and receptacles are formed in the side panels before assembly, allowing containers to be retained through simple insertion and engagement without requiring additional assembly steps or complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention features are designed to self-engage during assembly. Tabs automatically engage with receptacles when panels are folded into position, and the friction fit between containers and receptacles provides automatic retention without requiring additional fastening operations, maintaining ease of manufacture while improving reliability.
3Ease of operation
If foldable side panels are used for enclosure, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Gusset panels are pre-positioned at the corners where side panels connect to the top panel. These gusset features provide reinforcement before the side panels are folded into place, creating a strengthened joint that maintains structural integrity while allowing the foldable assembly process to proceed easily.
Solution Approach 2:
The package structure combines multiple panel types (top panels, side panels, end panels, and gusset panels) into a composite structure. Each panel type contributes specific properties - side panels provide foldability for ease of assembly while gusset panels provide reinforcement for structural strength, together resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and strength.
Data Source
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AI summary
A package for holding a plurality of containers. The package has a top panel, end panels and side panels. The package has retention features for retaining the containers. The package has gussets for positioning the end panels and side panels around the containers.