Configurable universal bag holder

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current bag holders are cumbersome, limiting in terms of bagging choices, and time-consuming to install and remove, as they are often incompatible with different types of bags and require separate installations for each type.

Innovation Solution

A configurable universal bag holder that includes a bag storage receptacle with a central panel, side members, and a bag support rack, allowing for the storage and display of multiple types of bags, such as plastic, paper, and cloth, in a single device, which can be easily attached to existing fixtures without needing to be removed or reinstalled.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate bag holders are used for different bag types, then each bag type can be properly stored, but the device complexity increases and multiple installations are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag type compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of bag holders
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single bag holder device that can accommodate multiple types of bags (plastic, paper, cloth) through universal support structures. The holder includes adjustable arms and support surfaces that can be configured for different bag types, eliminating the need for multiple separate holders and reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The bag holder incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components such as movable arms, adjustable support surfaces, and configurable compartments. These dynamic elements allow the holder to adapt its structure to different bag types and configurations, providing versatility without requiring multiple fixed-structure holders.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate bag holders are installed for each bag type, then proper storage is achieved, but the installation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag type compatibilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By providing a single universal bag holder that can store multiple bag types, the patent eliminates the need to install separate holders for plastic, paper, and cloth bags. This reduces installation time while maintaining the ability to properly store different bag types through configurable support structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The bag holder is pre-configured with adjustable components and universal support structures that can be quickly adapted to different bag types without requiring complete reinstallation. This preliminary design allows for rapid reconfiguration rather than time-consuming installation of separate holders.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a specific bag holder type is installed, then that bag type can be stored, but switching to a different bag type requires removing and reinstalling the holder

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebag type switchingVSAvoidbag holder reconfiguration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bag holder features dynamic, adjustable components including movable arms, reconfigurable support surfaces, and adjustable compartments that can be easily modified to accommodate different bag types. This eliminates the need to remove and reinstall the holder when switching bag types, as the components can be quickly reconfigured in place.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The holder is divided into independent, modular components that can be individually adjusted or reconfigured. This segmentation allows specific parts to be modified for different bag types without affecting the entire structure, making switching between bag types simple and maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11738900B2Configurable universal bag holder
Publication Date: 2023.08.29 WALMART APOLLO LLC
  • US11738900B2 patent drawing
  • US11738900B2 patent drawing
  • US11738900B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Examples provide a universal bag holder for storing multiple different types of bags on a single bag holder device. The bag holder includes a bag receptacle for holding folded paper bags or folded reusable bags, such as cloth bags. An access window in one side of the receptacle enables a user to retrieve items which may fall into the receptacle. The bag holder also includes a bag support rack having a set of bag support arms for supporting plastic bags or reusable bags on the arms. The loops on the plastic or reusable bags are placed over the bag support arms. A paper bag that has been unfolded can also be supported between the bag support arms. A label holder permits placement of price tags or other information labels for the bags. The bag holder can be attached to pre-existing bagging area fixtures for ease of use.