Rotating Blank Support for Tubular Container Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for forming containers, such as cartons and cases, face challenges in efficiently converting flat blanks into tubular shapes, particularly for corrugated fibreboard and composite cans, due to complex machinery and inefficient sealing processes, leading to increased shipping costs and reduced packing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a blank support device and rotating apparatus to transform a flat, unglued blank into a tubular configuration around the support device, with an adhesive applicator for sealing, allowing for efficient formation of containers like RSC cases and composite cans with improved stability and packing density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pre-folded and pre-glued blanks are used to form tubular cases, then the cases can be readily opened into an erected state, but the blanks have asymmetric shape and unstable stacking characteristics requiring secondary containers and reducing shipping density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-folding and pre-gluing the blank in a controlled manner to create a tubular configuration that is ready for erection. The side seams are pre-glued to maintain tubular shape while allowing the blank to remain relatively flat for efficient stacking and shipping. This preliminary preparation enables rapid assembly at the destination without requiring complex on-site folding operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If pre-folded and pre-glued blanks are used, then case formation is simplified, but shipping costs increase due to reduced packing efficiency and need for secondary containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively gluing only specific portions of the blank - specifically the side seams - while leaving other areas unfolded and flat. This localized gluing approach provides just enough structural integrity for easy erection while maintaining overall flatness for efficient stacking and shipping, thus avoiding the need for secondary containers and reducing shipping costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complicated folding and gluing systems are used to form top-loaded cases from flat blanks, then the cases can be top-loaded, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the case formation process into distinct modular components: flat blank storage, controlled folding mechanisms, adhesive application systems, and case ejection. Each component performs a specific function, allowing the system to handle top-loaded cases efficiently without requiring an overly complex integrated mechanism. The segmented approach enables independent optimization of each subsystem.
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
Enables rapid and efficient conversion of flat blanks into stable, sealed containers, reducing shipping costs and improving packing efficiency by simplifying the formation process and enhancing the structural integrity of the containers.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive applicator for sealing
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are disclosed for forming a can from a re-configurable blank. A blank is also disclosed that may be a paper based blank and may be of multi-layer construction. The method may comprise: (a) supporting the blank in a first orientation; (b) positioning a first portion of an outward facing surface of a blank support device proximate a first portion of the blank while the blank is in the first orientation; (c) while the first portion of the blank is in the first orientation, rotating a second portion of the blank around a second portion of the outward facing surface of the blank support device; and (d) rotating a third portion of the blank from the first orientation, around a third portion of the outward facing surface of the blank support device. A generally tubular side wall may thus be formed for a can.