Paper Packaging Perforation for Recyclable Tear-Off Edges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current paper packaging solutions, such as those using plastic tear threads, are not recyclable and do not allow for easy opening or re-closure, which is a challenge in the mail order sector where packaging needs to be easily accessible and undamaged for return shipping.

Innovation Solution

A method for producing paper packaging that introduces perforations adjacent to the closure seam using a perforation tool, allowing for easy opening and minimizing waste, while eliminating the need for plastic tear threads by creating a straight tear edge and enabling the packaging to be re-closed for return shipping.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If plastic tear strips are used in paper packaging, then the packaging can be easily opened, but the recyclability of the packaging deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of openingVSAvoidrecyclability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical structure of the paper packaging by creating perforations with specific patterns (e.g., zigzag, straight, or curved lines) adjacent to the closing seam. These perforations alter the mechanical properties of the paper, enabling easy tearing along predetermined paths without requiring plastic components, thus maintaining recyclability while improving ease of opening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If perforations are created adjacent to the closing seam, then the packaging can be easily opened with a straight tear-off edge, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of openingVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the perforation creation function with the existing closing device. The perforations are created during the same operational cycle as the closing seam formation, using integrated or adjacent tools that utilize the same mechanical movement and control systems already present in the packaging machine, thereby avoiding significant increases in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The perforations are created in advance during the packaging process, before the packaging is used. By pre-creating the perforation patterns adjacent to the closing seam, the packaging is prepared for easy opening without requiring additional tools or actions at the point of use, simplifying the overall system while improving user convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If the perforation is applied along the entire length of the closure seam, then the entire side of the packaging can be opened, but the waste from side edges increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of openingVSAvoidwaste
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies perforations locally at specific positions adjacent to the closing seam rather than uniformly across the entire packaging. The perforations are strategically placed to enable controlled tearing that minimizes waste while still allowing access to the contents. This localized approach creates tear paths that optimize the balance between ease of opening and material preservation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4455030A1Method and sealing device for producing a paper package for a product
Publication Date: 2024.10.30 HUGO BECK MASCHINENBAU GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4455030A1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4455030A1 patent drawingFigure 2~5
  • EP4455030A1 patent drawingFigure 6~10

AI summary

Method for producing a paper packaging (17) for a packaged item (3), in which a band-shaped packaging covering (11) surrounding the packaged item (3) is produced with at least one paper layer (10), which comprises two opposing open sides (21, 22), in which side edges (23, 24) of the open sides (21, 22) are closed with a closing device (18), and through which a sealing seam (27) is introduced into the superimposed side edges (23, 24) with at least one thread (42), wherein at least one perforation (31) is introduced adjacent to the sealing seam (27) with at least one perforation tool (34) (see Figure 5).