Pivoting Pallet Packaging System with Spacer Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing packaging systems for transport items are complex, require large installation space, and use problematic plastic foams for cushioning, which complicates logistics and disposal.

Innovation Solution

A packaging system comprising a rectangular pallet with pivotable side walls and a closure hood, featuring U-shaped spacing elements and recesses for efficient arrangement and protection of goods, made from easily disposable materials like cardboard.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If plastic foams are used for cushioning transport goods, then sufficient cushioning protection is provided, but the installation space required increases and disposal becomes problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecushioning protectionVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces rigid plastic foam cushioning with a flexible cardboard box structure that provides protection through its collapsible nature. The box can be compressed during transport to reduce volume while maintaining protective function, and is easily disposable after use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The packaging system uses side walls that can pivot between packaging position and transport position, allowing the structure to adapt dynamically. During transport, the side walls are in transport position providing protection with minimal space, while during packaging they pivot to packaging position for easy goods insertion.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If complex packaging systems with multiple components are used, then sufficient protection is provided, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveprotectionVSAvoidpackaging system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple protective functions into a single integrated cardboard box structure. The side walls, base, and closure hood work together as one unified packaging system, eliminating the need for separate cushioning materials, inserts, and fastening components found in traditional packaging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The side walls serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, act as cushioning elements through their pivot mechanism, enable easy packaging and unpacking through their movable nature, and provide closure when positioned vertically. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If traditional packaging methods with separate components are used, then goods can be protected, but production cost and disposal complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegoods protectionVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a disposable cardboard box that is inexpensive to manufacture and dispose of. The single-use nature of the packaging eliminates the need for costly durable materials and complex assembly/disassembly processes, making it economically advantageous despite providing adequate protection for the transport journey.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentEP4339122A1Packaging system and method for providing a packaged transport item
Publication Date: 2024.03.20 BLANCO GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4339122A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4339122A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4339122A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a packaging system for a transport item, comprising a carrier device, in particular in the form of a rectangular pallet, with a support surface, a packaging device which is arranged on the carrier device and connectable to it, wherein the packaging device comprises at least two side walls, a base for arranging the transport item on it, and a recess for releasably closing the packaging device, wherein the at least two side walls are pivotably connected to the base for pivoting the side walls between a packaging position and a transport position, and wherein at least one, in particular U-shaped, spacer element is arranged on at least one side wall for spacering the transport item from the side wall in the transport position, and wherein the closure hood is configured in its transport position.to at least partially enclose the side walls in their transport position in a form-fitting manner.