Shock Absorption Clips for Adjustable Packaging Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging systems for fragile items like doors with glass inserts, mirrors, and framed art are costly due to material requirements and weight, and they often require separate containers for varying sizes, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A shipping container system with shock absorption members, such as C-shape and E-shape clips made of resilient material, that are attached to the container to suspend and secure items, allowing for adjustable sizing to accommodate different product sizes without the need for multiple containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large foam sheets and frame members are used to protect the article, then the article is protected from physical impact, but the shipping weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system divides the protective function into discrete corner protectors rather than using large continuous foam sheets. Each corner protector is an independent component that can be individually attached to provide localized protection at critical impact zones, reducing overall material usage and weight.
Solution Approach 2:
Protection is concentrated at the corners where impact damage is most likely to occur, rather than uniformly distributing protective material across the entire article. This localized approach provides adequate protection while minimizing the total amount of protective material required.
2Stability of the object's composition
If exact sizing of the box, frame members and foam sheets is used to correspond to the item, then the item migration is reduced, but a large inventory of boxes and components is required
Solution Approach 1:
The corner protectors are designed as universal components that can be used with articles of various sizes and shapes. The same basic corner protector design can protect different types of articles (furniture, appliances, boxes) without requiring size-specific variations, thereby simplifying inventory while maintaining position stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system allows for flexible configuration where corner protectors can be selectively placed and adjusted based on the specific article being shipped, rather than requiring pre-configured rigid boxes. This dynamic approach enables a single inventory of protectors to adapt to various shipping needs.
3Strength
If adhesive is applied at multiple locations to secure the box in closed position, then the box structure is secured, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The corner protectors are pre-equipped with attachment mechanisms (such as integrated fastening features or pre-applied adhesives) that simplify the assembly process. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for multiple separate adhesive applications during box closure, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural strength.
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
This solution reduces shipping costs and weight by using a single container for various sizes, effectively securing items to prevent movement and damage during transit, while minimizing material usage and inventory needs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one shock absorption member attached to the shipping container for serving as a locator for the product
Implementation Method 2
C-shape and E-shape clips made of resilient material
Data Source
AI summary
A packaging combination is disclosed that includes a box and at least first and second planar objects in the box. At least first and second shock absorbing clips are attached to the planar objects in the box. At least one of the first clips is fastened to the first planar object and the clip is positioned between one wall of the box and the second planar object. At least one of the second clips is fastened to both planar objects and is positioned between opposite walls of the box.