Paper Cushion Structure for Shock Absorption and Cost Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods for fragile goods, such as using styrofoam to fill empty spaces in boxes, lead to environmental pollution and increased costs due to material and manufacturing complexities, necessitating a more sustainable and cost-effective shock absorption solution.
Innovation Solution
A cushion structure made from materials like corrugated paperboard, pulp modeled board, or honeycomb paperboard, with a design featuring a bearing part, buffer parts, and supporting parts that form specific angles to absorb shocks and distribute forces evenly, reducing the need for increased box rigidity and buffer space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If styrofoam is used to fill empty spaces inside the box, then shock absorption is improved, but environmental pollution increases and recyclability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from styrofoam to paper-based materials (corrugated paperboard, pulp molded board, honeycomb paperboard) that provide equivalent shock absorption through different structural mechanisms, eliminating environmental pollution while maintaining protective functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite paper-based structures with multiple layers and configurations (such as corrugated layers, honeycomb patterns, and molded pulp combinations) to achieve shock absorption performance comparable to styrofoam while being environmentally friendly and recyclable
2Reliability
If the rigidity of the box is increased to prevent damage, then protection is improved, but material costs and occupied spaces increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protection function into two parts: the box provides structural containment while the inserted cushioning structure provides shock absorption. This allows the box itself to use less material while the specialized cushioning components handle the protective function, reducing overall material cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cushioning structure made of paper-based materials that acts as a mediator between the box and the goods. This intermediary absorbs shocks and forces, allowing the box to maintain lower rigidity and material usage while still providing adequate protection
3Reliability
If buffer spaces inside the box are increased to absorb shock, then protection is improved, but occupied spaces and delivering costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible, compressible paper-based cushioning structures that can deform and compact under shock forces. These structures provide effective buffer zones that occupy minimal space when not in use, yet expand to provide adequate protection when needed, reducing overall volume requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The cushioning structure is designed to be dynamic rather than static - it compresses and deforms in response to applied forces, allowing it to provide shock absorption in a compact form factor. The structure transitions from a compact state during storage to an expanded protective state during shock events, optimizing space utilization
4Reliability
If the packing structure is strengthened to protect goods, then protection is improved, but manufacturing complexity and fabrication costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the packing system into simple, standardized components: the box and separate cushioning elements. These segmented components can be manufactured independently using simple processes and assembled easily, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining protective effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The cushioning structure is designed with universal features that can be applied to various box sizes and product types. The standardized design allows for simplified manufacturing processes and tooling, reducing fabrication complexity and costs while providing adaptable protection across different applications
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 solution effectively absorbs shocks, protects fragile goods without increasing box rigidity or material costs, while being environmentally friendly and easy to recycle, thus reducing packaging and delivery expenses.
Implementation Method 1
The two buffer parts are joined with two sides of the bearing part to form a first angle and a second angle. The two supporting parts are joined with opposite sides to the sides of the buffer parts joined with the bearing parts to form a third angle and a fourth angle.
Implementation Method 2
a cushion structure made from materials like corrugated paperboard, pulp modeled board, or honeycomb paperboard... to absorb shocks and distribute forces evenly
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a cushion structure, which includes a box, a holding structure and a first cushion therein. The first cushion includes a bearing part, two buffer parts and two supporting parts. The buffer parts are joined with two sides of the bearing part to form a first angle and a second angle. The supporting parts are joined with opposite sides to the sides of the buffer parts joined with the buffer parts to form a third angle and a fourth angle. The cushion structure further includes a second cushion disposed parallel to the first cushion between the box and the holding structure. Alternatively, the second cushion can be disposed opposite to or superimposed over the first cushion between the first cushion and the holding structure. Both the first and second cushions can be formed as one-piece.