Stackable container, a stackable container package, and a method of use of the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable containers face challenges in achieving a balance between reduced material weight and maintaining structural rigidity to carry a pre-determined top load, while also being efficient for shipping and stacking.
Innovation Solution
The container design features a side wall thickness profile with varying thicknesses to minimize material weight while ensuring structural integrity, including a tapered side wall and angled shoulder for efficient stacking and a snap-fit lid mechanism, allowing for a high top load rating and reduced weight of about 37 grams per container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If material thickness is reduced to decrease container weight, then weight is reduced, but structural rigidity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs variable wall thickness with different regions having different thickness values. The side walls have greater thickness at the top and bottom portions compared to the middle portion, while the bottom has increased thickness at specific areas. This local quality variation optimizes structural rigidity where needed while minimizing material usage and weight in less critical areas.
2Weight of moving object
If container walls are made thinner to reduce weight, then weight is reduced, but top load capacity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs variable wall thickness with different regions having different thickness values. The side walls have greater thickness at the top and bottom portions compared to the middle portion, while the bottom has increased thickness at specific areas. This local quality variation optimizes structural rigidity where needed while minimizing material usage and weight in less critical areas.
3Productivity
If containers are designed for efficient stacking, then shipping efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The container structure is divided into distinct functional zones including a brim portion, side wall portions with different orientations, and a bottom portion with specific geometry. The side walls include a first portion at an angle to the vertical and a second portion at a different angle, creating segmented regions that facilitate stacking while maintaining manufacturability through standard thermoforming processes.
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
The design enables a high number of lightweight containers to be stacked and shipped, reducing freight costs and maintaining structural rigidity to support a top load of at least 100 lbs, while allowing for efficient shipping and storage in a compact rectangular array.
Implementation Method 1
thermoforming the sheet of material into a container having a depth in the range of about 6′′ to about 8′′
Data Source
AI summary
A container has a side wall thickness profile sufficient for withstanding loads such as a top load, a package including the container and a lid, and methods and systems related to the container, are disclosed.