Virtual Textile Pouch Packaging for Reusable Decontamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging methods generate significant waste and are not environmentally friendly, particularly in industries like foodservices and healthcare where reusable materials are needed.
Innovation Solution
A two-phase packaging method using textile materials that can be washed and heated for decontamination, creating a virtual pouch by folding and securing sheets around a textile article, allowing for reuse with minimal waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If disposable packaging materials are used, then packaging speed and simplicity are improved, but waste generation increases and hygiene standards cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reusable packaging system where textile bags and sheets are washed and decontaminated after use rather than discarded. The textile articles are packaged in textile bags, which are then wrapped in textile sheets for laundering. This recovering approach eliminates waste generation while maintaining packaging functionality through repeated use cycles.
2Loss of substance
If reusable packaging materials are used, then waste is reduced, but cleaning and decontamination processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple packaging components (textile bag and textile sheet) into a single integrated reusable packaging system. Both components are designed to be laundered together through the same washing and decontamination process, merging the cleaning operations for multiple items into one unified process, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The textile materials serve multiple functions: they provide packaging containment, protect the textile article during transport, and can be decontaminated for reuse. The same textile sheets and bags used for packaging are also suitable for laundering with the textile articles, creating a universal system that eliminates the need for separate cleaning procedures.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If textile materials are used for packaging, then reusability and sustainability are improved, but water resistance and impermeability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that textile materials should have certain physical properties including water resistance and impermeability. These parameter specifications ensure that while the packaging remains reusable and sustainable, it also protects the packaged textile articles from moisture and water damage during transport and storage.
Data Source
AI summary
Packaging methods include inserting an article into a virtual pouch defined by folding and tacking a first sheet of textile material. The first sheet is then folded about the article such that the first sheet encompasses the article. A second sheet of a textile material is then folded about the first sheet into a configuration such that the second sheet entirely envelops and encloses the first sheet and the textile article. The second folded sheet is then secured in the enveloping configuration. Alternatively, the article is wrapped in and encompassed by a first sheet of textile material by folding and the resulting package is then enclosed within a virtual pouch created in a second sheet of textile material. The resulting outer sheet enclosing the inner sheet with the textile article is then secured in its enclosing configuration with a strap. The packaging materials can be cleaned and decontaminated for reuse.