Supplementary Package Attachment in Multi-Layer Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for attaching supplementary packages to primary packages are inefficient, leading to issues such as the supplementary package getting stuck or requiring unnecessary removal from the primary package for access to the item.

Innovation Solution

A method where a supplementary package is attached to a secondary package, which is then positioned between the secondary and primary packages, allowing the supplementary package to be easily accessed by removing a removable cover, and optionally attaching the secondary package to the primary package for added rigidity and manufacturing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the supplementary package is attached to the exterior of the primary package, then the item is enclosed with the primary package, but the supplementary package may get stuck in the space between the secondary package and primary package when the secondary package is attached to the primary package

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupplementary package attachment reliabilityVSAvoidsupplementary package access ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a secondary package as an intermediary component between the primary package and the supplementary package. The supplementary package is attached to the secondary package, which is then attached to the primary package. This intermediary structure prevents the supplementary package from getting stuck in the space between the secondary and primary packages, while still allowing easy access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the supplementary package is attached to the primary package using conventional methods, then the item is enclosed with the primary package, but the manufacturing process becomes less efficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackage assembly integrityVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the packaging system into three separate components: the primary package, the secondary package, and the supplementary package. Each component can be manufactured independently at different locations, and then assembled together. This segmentation allows for more efficient manufacturing and distribution, while maintaining package integrity through the attachment system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the supplementary package is attached to the removable cover of the secondary package, then the supplementary package follows the cover when removed, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveitem access convenienceVSAvoidpackage structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the supplementary package with the removable cover of the secondary package through attachment. When the consumer removes the cover to access the primary package, the supplementary package is automatically removed as well, providing easy access to the item. This merging of functions simplifies the user experience despite the increased structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3288848B1Method for producing a package assembly and such a package assembly
Publication Date: 2020.06.17 TETRA LAVAL HOLDINGS & FINANCE SA
  • EP3288848B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3288848B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3288848B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for producing a package assembly (1). The method comprises the step of attaching a supplementary package (41) to a secondary package (3), such that the supplementary package (41) is arranged in a space formed between the secondary package (3) and a primary package (2) when the secondary package (3) is attached to the primary package (2). The invention also relates to a package assembly (1) and a blank (3) to be shaped into a secondary package (3).