Sample Storage Tray With Molded Bubbles and Strap

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current packaging technologies are inadequate for securely storing and transporting delicate, three-dimensional materials, as they often fail to prevent damage during transport due to inadequate protection and movement within the packaging.

Innovation Solution

A material storage and transport system featuring a tray with an open-top design, a releasable strap for securing a lid element, and a sample carrier with molded thermoplastic sheets that form discrete storage bubbles to isolate samples, combined with a hinged lid for enhanced protection and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional packaging technologies are used, then the packaging structure is simple, but the samples are not adequately protected and movement occurs during transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample protectionVSAvoidpackaging structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging system is divided into distinct functional components: a base tray for sample placement, a lid element for closure, and a releasable strap for securing. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing comprehensive sample protection during transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple protective functions into a unified packaging system. The tray, lid, and strap work together as an integrated assembly that simultaneously provides containment, closure, and securing functions, eliminating the need for separate protective measures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If a secure sealing mechanism is added to prevent sample movement, then sample protection is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesample securityVSAvoidsealing mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The releasable strap provides a dynamic securing mechanism that can be easily engaged and disengaged. This dynamic element allows the packaging to transition between open and secured states without requiring complex permanent fastening systems, maintaining simplicity while ensuring sample security during transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The packaging system is designed to be self-securing through the releasable strap that can be easily engaged by the user without requiring additional tools or complex mechanisms. The strap automatically provides the necessary securing force once engaged, eliminating the need for external assistance or complicated locking systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11851258B2Material storage and transport system
Publication Date: 2023.12.26 MATERIA GRP CORP
  • US11851258B2 patent drawing
  • US11851258B2 patent drawing
  • US11851258B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A material storage and transport system is disclosed. The material storage and transport system can include a material storage tray forming a storage volume defined by a bottom and walls extending up from the bottom along a perimeter of the bottom. The material storage and transport system can also include a releasable strap adapted to extend across the bottom when in a securing configuration and a sample carrier, including at least one sample secured to a sample support substrate by a molded sheet. The material storage and transport system can include a hinged lid that is integrally connected to a wall of the material storage tray, and configured to convert between a folded-in position, an opened position, and a closed position.