Tape Collation of Cuboid Packages via Exposed End Faces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for collating packages in delivery systems, such as combustible and non-combustible aerosol provision systems, often require multiple packages to be opened or unwrapped, which can be inconvenient and inefficient for accessing individual items.
Innovation Solution
A method of arranging cuboid-shaped packages in rows with exposed end faces, where a single strip of tape is adhered only to the surface formed by these end faces to securely attach the packages together, allowing for easy access while maintaining the packages in a collated form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple packages are wrapped in plastic or placed in cartons, then the packages are securely retained together in a collation, but the packages require extensive wrapping or opening which is inconvenient and inefficient for accessing individual items
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging system is segmented into individual packages that can be accessed separately while remaining in a collated arrangement. Each package maintains its own wrapping integrity, allowing users to open only the specific package needed without disturbing others in the collation.
Solution Approach 2:
The packages are arranged in a three-dimensional collated structure with specific orientations (rows and columns) that allows access from multiple directions. This spatial arrangement enables convenient access to individual packages without requiring complete unwrapping or complex opening mechanisms.
2Reliability
If cartons or wrapping are used to collate packages, then the packages are retained together securely, but the process requires extensive wrapping material and opening effort
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual packages are merged into a single collated unit that functions as one secure package group. The collation structure combines the packages in a coordinated arrangement, providing collective security and retention while minimizing the need for additional wrapping material around each individual package.
Solution Approach 2:
The collation structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it secures packages together for transport, maintains their individual integrity, enables convenient access to any package, and provides a compact storage solution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate wrapping and securing mechanisms for each package.
3Productivity
If packages are arranged in traditional collation methods, then they are retained together, but accessing individual packages requires opening the entire carton or wrapping
Solution Approach 1:
The packages are pre-arranged in a collated structure with predetermined orientations and positions that facilitate quick identification and access. The arrangement is prepared in advance during packaging, so that when a user needs to access a specific package, its location and accessibility are already optimized, eliminating the need to open or rearrange the entire collation.
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 provides a secure and efficient way to retain multiple packages together, allowing for easy access and storage, while minimizing the need for extensive wrapping or opening, thus enhancing usability and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a single strip of tape is adhered only to said surface of the collation such that the single strip of tape attaches the packages in the collation together
Data Source
AI summary
A collation of packages, each package of the collation being cuboid-shaped and including a pair of opposing first faces, a pair of opposing second faces and an end face; wherein the packages are arranged in rows such that a second face of a package faces a second face of an adjacent package within the same row, and a first face of a package in a row faces a first face of a package in an adjacent row, a second face of a package at the ends of each row, a first face of each package in a row, and each end face being exposed; wherein the exposed end faces of the packages in the collation together form a surface; and wherein a single strip of tape is adhered only to said surface of the collation such that the single strip of tape attaches the packages in the collation together.