Vase Carrier with Pivotable Retainer for Secure Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods for vases, which typically involve shipping multiple vases in corrugated boxes, do not efficiently accommodate a single vase with flowers for delivery, as they lack a dedicated and protective container that is both inexpensive and easily assembled.
Innovation Solution
A corrugated container made from a single piece of paperboard or plastic, featuring a continuous side wall vase with an open top and closed bottom, where the vase is removably held within the container using a pivotable top portion and retainers to limit movement, allowing flower stems to be inserted and secured during transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate container is used for each vase, then the vase is protected during transport, but the packaging cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into distinct functional zones: a main body for the lower portion of the vase, a top portion for the upper portion, and a pivotable portion that can independently engage with the vase opening. This segmentation allows each part to provide specific protection while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The vase is nested within the container, with the container's top portion and pivotable portion fitting over the vase opening. The retainers are nested within the container body, creating a compact integrated structure that protects the vase without adding excessive external complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple vases are shipped in corrugated boxes, then shipping efficiency is improved, but individual vase protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The container design serves multiple functions: it provides individual protection for a single vase, allows for easy assembly without specialized tools, and can be stacked or arranged efficiently for shipping. The pivotable portion can be positioned to secure the vase while maintaining a compact profile for transportation.
3Reliability
If an expensive and complex container is used, then vase protection is enhanced, but cost and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable portion can rotate between a storage position (parallel to the top portion) and an engaged position (extending downward into the vase opening). This dynamic feature allows for compact storage during shipping and easy engagement during assembly, eliminating the need for complex fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainers are designed to automatically engage with the vase when the container is assembled, and the pivotable portion self-locks into position through its geometric design. This eliminates the need for additional fasteners, adhesives, or complex assembly procedures, reducing both manufacturing cost and assembly difficulty.
Data Source
AI summary
A container for holding a vase having flowers positioned therein. The container includes a pair of side walls, a pair of bottom retainers, and a downwardly extending tongue to limit relative motion between the vase and container.