Shrink Film Closing Component for Recyclable Container Cases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current recyclable container systems face challenges in efficiently transforming from a packaging format to a recyclable state, requiring sorting and separation of materials, which complicates the recycling process.
Innovation Solution
A container case comprising a plurality of containers wrapped in a shrink film with a closing component that can be uncoupled and re-adhered to reduce the opening area, allowing for easy transformation into a recyclable bag after use, facilitating the recycling of all components without sorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If containers are packaged in shrink film for distribution, then the container case is recyclable, but the recycling process requires sorting and separation of materials which complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The closing component integrates multiple functions: it seals the shrink film during distribution, and can be removed and reattached to seal the film again during recycling. This single component handles both distribution and recycling sealing needs, merging what would otherwise require separate mechanisms and reducing the complexity of the recycling process.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing component serves dual purposes: it functions as a seal during the distribution phase and can be reused as a seal during the recycling phase. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sealing mechanisms for different stages of the product lifecycle, simplifying the overall recycling process while maintaining recyclability.
2Ease of operation
If the shrink film has open ends for container access, then containers can be easily removed, but the open ends prevent the shrink film from being reused as a closed recycling bag
Solution Approach 1:
The closing component provides dynamic sealing capability: it allows the shrink film to transition between open and closed states. During distribution, the closing component is removed to allow container access; during recycling, it is reattached to create a closed bag, enabling the film to adapt to different functional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing component is pre-positioned on the shrink film during manufacturing, ready to be removed for container access and then reattached for recycling. This preliminary placement ensures that the sealing capability is already integrated into the system, requiring only simple removal and reattachment actions rather than complex transformations.
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 seamless recycling by converting the container case into a bag format, ensuring all components can be recycled together, reducing waste and simplifying the recycling process.
Implementation Method 1
wrapping the container matrix with a shrink film in an expanded state, contracting the shrink film about the container matrix to form a container case
Data Source
AI summary
A container case including a plurality of containers wrapped in a shrink film. The shrink film includes a first open end having a first rim that defines a first opening, and a second open end located opposite the first open end, the second open end having a second rim that defines a second opening. The container case also includes a closing component coupled to the shrink film. The closing component includes at least a portion thereof configured for uncoupling from one portion of the shrink film and recoupling to another portion of the shrink film to thereby reduce an area of the first opening.