Reusable Polymer Storage Unit with Stretch Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shipping parcel technologies are inefficient for storage, leading to waste of resources, damage to items, and environmental issues due to the use of cardboard and filling materials, which are not eco-friendly and contribute to pollution.
Innovation Solution
The development of an item storage unit comprising frame components with stretch members that conform to items, reducing the need for filling materials and allowing for more efficient use of space, made from durable polymer-based materials designed for multiple shipping operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If cardboard parcels are used for shipping, then items can be packaged and delivered, but storage efficiency is poor and resources are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from cardboard to reusable polymer storage units, and changes the structural parameter from rigid box to flexible frame with stretch members, enabling both improved storage efficiency and reduced material waste
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a recovery system where storage units are collected after use, cleaned, and reused for multiple shipping operations, eliminating the need to discard cardboard parcels after single use
2Reliability
If cardboard parcels are used, then items can be protected during shipping, but items can still shift or slide causing breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses stretch members (flexible films) that can conform to the shape of items and apply continuous restraining force, preventing shifting and sliding better than rigid cardboard structures
Solution Approach 2:
The stretch members provide dynamic adaptation to item shapes and sizes, allowing the storage unit to flex and conform while maintaining secure restraint on items during transport
3Productivity
If cardboard parcels are used for shipping, then items can be delivered, but environmental pollution increases due to recycling costs and landfill disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition from non-biodegradable cardboard to reusable polymer materials that can be cleaned and reused multiple times, eliminating the pollution associated with cardboard disposal
Solution Approach 2:
The storage units are designed for continuous reuse across multiple shipping operations, eliminating the cyclic disposal and replacement process that generates pollution with single-use cardboard parcels
4Productivity
If cardboard parcels are used, then items can be packaged, but the parcels take up a lot of space in carrier vehicles and logistics stores
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the structural parameters of the storage units to be more compact and space-efficient, allowing multiple units to be stacked and stored in less space within carrier vehicles and logistics facilities
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 provides secure storage with reduced likelihood of item damage, efficient use of space, and environmental benefits by minimizing cardboard waste and pollution, enabling continuous reuse of the storage units.
Implementation Method 1
The first stretch member having a greater stretching capacity relative to the first frame component
Data Source
AI summary
In some aspects, an item storage unit for storing one or more items includes the following components. A first frame component and a first stretch member coupled to at least a first surface of the first frame component. The first stretch member being more flexible relative to the first frame component. The one or more items are configured to be supported by at least the first stretch member and the first frame component.