Reusable Modular Packing Box with Interlocking Key-Lock Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Corrugated packing boxes are not durable and become worn after one or two uses, leading to waste and environmental harm due to their cardboard material.
Innovation Solution
A set of reusable assembly pieces made of materials like cardboard, plastic, or metal, featuring a square body with keys and locks for secure connection and disconnection, allowing for the construction and disassembly of boxes, and a box opener for easy opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If corrugated boxes are made of cardboard for cheap and convenient use, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but durability and reliability deteriorate after one or two uses
Solution Approach 1:
The box is divided into multiple separate components (base, sides, top) that can be assembled and disassembled. Each component is made of durable material and can be reused multiple times, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and durability by making the box structure modular rather than a single disposable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding the entire box after one use, the invention allows for recovery and reuse of all box components. The durable materials and reversible connections enable multiple uses, transforming the disposable cardboard box into a reusable container system.
2Ease of manufacture
If corrugated boxes are made of cardboard for cheap and convenient use, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but environmental harm increases due to waste
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables recovery and repeated use of box components, significantly reducing waste generation. By making the box reusable with durable materials and reversible connections, environmental harm from disposable cardboard boxes is eliminated while maintaining cost-effectiveness through multiple uses.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from disposable cardboard to durable reusable materials (plastic, metal, or treated cardboard), and changes the connection parameter from permanent adhesive bonding to reversible mechanical connections. This allows the box to be disassembled and reused, reducing environmental impact.
3Ease of operation
If traditional box flaps are used for closing, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and security deteriorate without proper locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the closing function from the box structure itself and provides it through separate removable lids or covers that can be securely fastened. This separation allows the main box body to remain simple and easy to assemble while the lid provides enhanced security through dedicated closing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces intermediary closing mechanisms (latches, clips, or interlocking features) that mediate between the box components and provide secure closure. These intermediaries enable reliable sealing and protection while maintaining ease of operation through simple engagement and disengagement actions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a new method of making, using, and constructing packing boxes that can be used for shipping or storage. In one embodiment, a packing box is constructed from a set of assembly pieces. Each assembly piece comprises a square body with four sides. On each side of the square body, there is either a key or a lock. Two assembly pieces can be connected or locked through insertion of a key of one assembly piece into a lock of another assembly piece. Two locked pieces can be unlocked by pushing on the key via the indentation above the lock of one locked assembly piece that receives the key of another locked pieces. Assembly pieces of different shapes required for constructing a box are disclosed.