Top Lift Carrier With Segmented Handle And Carrier Sheets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container carriers, particularly plastic ones, face challenges in providing secure and comfortable handling for large groups of containers like twelve-packs, especially when carried upright, due to issues with handle strength, reliability, and consistency in loop spacing, which complicates automated application processes.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing a container carrier with handles positioned between rows of containers, using separate sheets for handle and carrier portions, allowing for consistent loop spacing and easy application, suitable for both two-wide and three-wide configurations, and enabling known manufacturing and application equipment to be used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If loops and handle portions are provided in the same sheet, then manufacturing is simplified, but it is difficult to move the handle portions without distorting the loops
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier is divided into two separate sheets: a handle sheet containing only handle portions and a carrier sheet containing only loops. This segmentation allows independent manipulation of handle portions without distorting loops, while both sheets are subsequently joined together. The separation resolves the conflict between manufacturing simplicity and loop spacing consistency by enabling precise loop formation on the carrier sheet while handle portions can be freely positioned on the handle sheet.
2Strength
If the distance between outermost carrier loops is determined by weld location, then structural integrity is maintained, but the distance varies when weld location varies
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the handle sheet from the carrier sheet, the loop spacing is no longer dependent on weld locations. The loops are formed at fixed positions on the carrier sheet independently of where the sheets are joined. This allows consistent loop spacing while maintaining structural integrity through the weld/join between sheets.
Solution Approach 2:
The join between handle sheet and carrier sheet acts as an intermediary element that connects the two functional portions without constraining the loop positions. The join location can be optimized for structural strength while the loop spacing remains determined by the carrier sheet geometry, not the join position.
3Productivity
If a side handle carrier is used for twelve-packs, then automated machinery can attach carriers quickly, but carrying beverage containers horizontally is uncomfortable and may cause seal rupture
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing a side handle for horizontal carrying, this invention inverts the approach by providing top handles that enable upright carrying. The handles are positioned at the top of the container group, allowing consumers to carry the twelve-pack vertically in a natural, comfortable position. This inversion resolves the contradiction by prioritizing carrying comfort while maintaining efficient automated attachment through the top handle design.
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 solution provides a lightweight, inexpensive, and secure top lift carrier that conveys a firm feel, ensuring consistent loop spacing and easy application, addressing the challenges of handle strength and reliability for large container groups.
Implementation Method 1
connecting the handle sheet and the carrier sheet along a line of attachment
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier and a method for making a carrier with handles between rows of containers in both two-wide and three-wide configurations, and with the handle portion and container holding portion formed from different sheets connected together.