Retail Packaging Folded Into Compact Storage Container

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing retail packaging for small parts, tools, and machines is not effectively utilized for storage due to clutter and inefficient space usage, as it is often discarded after purchase and lacks structural stability for organized storage.

Innovation Solution

A cost-effective retail packaging solution that includes a rigid container with a material section and connecting device, allowing it to be transformed into a compact storage container by folding the material section inward, which can be locked in place, and features a grid-patterned insert for secure storage of objects, enabling high-density packaging and space optimization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the material section extends outward for product display, then the supporting function for product presentation is improved, but the storage density and space utilization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduct presentation capabilityVSAvoidstorage density

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The material section is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between an extended outward position for product display and a folded inward position for compact storage. The hinge connection enables this dynamic transformation, allowing the packaging to adapt its configuration based on whether it is being displayed or stored.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The material section serves multiple functions: it provides product display support when extended outward, and becomes part of the compact storage structure when folded inward. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the same structural element to serve different purposes in different operational states.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If the retail packaging is discarded after purchase, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but resource waste increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidresource waste

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of the packaging being discarded after its primary function, the design enables recovery and reuse of the retail packaging as a storage container. The collapsible material section allows the packaging to be transformed into a compact form suitable for ongoing storage use, extending its lifecycle and reducing waste.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Ease of operation

If objects are arbitrarily placed in the tool box, then ease of access is improved, but organization and space utilization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of accessVSAvoidorganization

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The retail packaging is segmented into distinct functional areas: the rigid container provides structured storage space, while the material section with supporting element creates organized display areas. This segmentation allows objects to be systematically arranged rather than arbitrarily placed, improving both organization and space utilization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Volume of moving object

If the material section is folded inward for storage, then the compactness is improved, but the product presentation capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecompactnessVSAvoidproduct presentation capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The material section's ability to dynamically change configuration between extended and folded states allows it to provide product presentation capability when needed and compactness when storage is the priority. The hinge mechanism enables this dynamic adaptation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The material section alternates between extended and folded positions based on operational requirements - extended during product display phases and folded during storage phases. This periodic transformation allows the system to optimize for different functions at different times.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 allows for orderly storage of multiple objects in a compact and organized manner, utilizing existing retail packaging as both a transport and storage container, reducing waste and enhancing space efficiency while maintaining product presentation capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

the connecting device is designed as a hinge through which the material section is pivotable with respect to the container from the initial position into a storage position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS11358272B2Retail packaging and transport box for small parts, tools, machines or such objects

Publication Date: 2022.06.14 ROTHENBERGER AG

AI summary

A box for transporting and/or storing small parts, tools, machines or such objects comprises a body, a lid and a receiving space formed by the body and the lid. The body has a bottom and side walls surrounding the bottom. The lid is connected to the body. The receiving space contains at least one storage container for small parts, tools, machines or such objects. The receiving space comprises a flat section facing the storage container on one side thereof and a grid formed by a plurality of protrusions. The storage container is arranged on the flat section, in a position that secures against lateral movement, using at least one, preferably a plurality of the protrusions.