Retaining Object Package With Self-Deploying Cross-Brace Tray
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging solutions for transporting objects face issues such as bulkiness, inefficiency in space utilization, and the need for multiple sizes due to foam or plastic envelope deformation requirements, which increase storage and transportation costs and risk damage or theft.
Innovation Solution
A package design featuring a box with a movable tray and cross-brace return mechanism, using elastics or torsion springs to automatically position the tray against the lid, ensuring secure retention without user effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If foam panels are integrated into the box and lid to retain the object, then the object is securely blocked and protected, but the package becomes bulky and occupies major stowage volume
Solution Approach 1:
The foam panels are extracted from the box structure and replaced with a separate retention system consisting of a removable tray and elastic bands. This allows the bulk retention function to be separated from the box volume, providing secure object blocking without permanently occupying stowage space.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system uses dynamic elastic bands that can be compressed during package folding and automatically expand to resume retention function when the package is opened. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt between compact storage and active retention states.
2Volume of moving object
If the package is folded to reduce bulk when not in use, then storage space is optimized, but the foam compression harms its elasticity and protective effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The foam is completely removed from the box structure and replaced with a separate tray-based retention system. This extraction eliminates the problem of foam compression during folding, as the new system components can be independently stored or removed without compromising their functional properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism transitions from a static foam structure to a dynamic system using elastic bands with controllable tension. The elastic properties of the bands can be maintained through material selection and design that accommodates compression during folding while ensuring sufficient restoring force for effective retention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a box appropriate for large objects is used for small objects, then the package is bulky and foam cannot be suitably deformed, but using a box for small objects for large objects leaves insufficient space and prevents proper closure
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into a standardized box, a removable tray, and adjustable elastic bands. This segmentation allows the same box to accommodate objects of varying sizes by adjusting the tray position and elastic tension, eliminating the need for multiple box sizes while maintaining efficient space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable trays and elastic bands that can be configured for different object sizes. This dynamic adaptability allows a single box design to serve multiple size requirements, improving versatility without compromising stowage volume efficiency.
4Reliability
If manual effort is applied to deform plastic envelopes or position retention elements, then objects can be retained, but user handling effort increases and operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is designed to be self-activating through elastic bands that automatically expand to secure the object on the tray. The elastic tension naturally positions retention elements and applies securing force without requiring user manipulation, deformation actions, or complex assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic bands are pre-tensioned during manufacturing to provide automatic retention force. This preliminary action eliminates the need for user effort during package assembly, as the retention mechanism is already configured to secure the object simply by placing it on the tray.
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, efficient, and space-saving transportation of objects, reducing the need for multiple package sizes and minimizing handling effort, while maintaining object integrity during transit.
Implementation Method 1
a cross-brace movable between a flattened position in which it is crushed between the tray and the bottom, and a deployed position in which it pushes back the tray with respect to the bottom
Implementation Method 2
a return member secured to the cross-brace and tending to position the cross-brace in its deployed position from its flattened position
Data Source
AI summary
A package for transporting an object (O) comprising:a box having a stowage volume defined by a bottom and a peripheral rim substantially perpendicular to the bottom;a lid able to occupy a position closing the box;a tray housed in the stowage volume; andmeans for returning the tray to an operating position in which it is separated from the bottom and holds the object (O) against the lid.The return means comprise:a cross-brace, and;a return member secured to the cross-brace and tending to position the cross-brace in a deployed position in which is pushes back the tray with respect to the bottom.