Display packaging for mounting articles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Consumers face challenges in selecting the appropriate mounting article for objects of varying weights, often leading to wasted time and potential damage to wall surfaces due to the lack of a clear method to determine the suitability of the mounting article.

Innovation Solution

The display packages include a projection with a line of weakness that separates from the backing when an object exceeding the recommended weight is mounted, providing a clear confirmation of the appropriate product selection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If consumers select mounting articles based on printed maximum weight recommendations only, then the selection process is simple and quick, but the accuracy of weight suitability determination is insufficient leading to potential failures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct selection processVSAvoidweight suitability determination
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a preliminary weight testing action by incorporating a weight-sensitive projection that deflects or breaks when exposed to excessive weight. This preliminary mechanical test occurs before the consumer commits to using the mounting article, providing immediate feedback on weight suitability without requiring complex measurements or calculations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary element (the weight-sensitive projection) that mediates between the unknown weight of the object and the mounting article's capacity. This projection acts as a physical indicator that translates weight information into a visible state change, bridging the gap between simple selection and accurate determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If consumers test multiple mounting articles to determine suitability, then the accuracy of selection increases, but the time required and potential damage to surfaces increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting article suitabilityVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The weight-sensitive projection performs the weight suitability test in advance, before the consumer installs the mounting article on the wall. This preliminary mechanical indication eliminates the need for multiple trial installations and subsequent removals, saving both time and preventing damage to wall surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting article packaging system performs self-testing through the weight-sensitive projection mechanism. The system automatically indicates whether the article is suitable for the intended load without requiring external testing equipment, multiple articles, or complex consumer judgment, thereby eliminating iterative testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If consumers test multiple mounting articles to determine suitability, then the accuracy of selection increases, but the risk of damage to wall surfaces increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting article suitabilityVSAvoiddamage to wall surfaces
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The weight-sensitive projection conducts the weight capacity test before any mounting article is installed on the wall surface. This preliminary indication prevents consumers from installing inappropriate mounting articles that could fail and cause damage, thereby eliminating the harmful effect of repeated installations and removals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary anti-action by using the weight-sensitive projection to prevent the selection of unsuitable mounting articles before they can cause damage. The mechanical indication serves as a preventive measure that counteracts the potential harmful effect of improper mounting article selection and installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS11584579B2Display packaging for mounting articles
Publication Date: 2023.02.21 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES CO
  • US11584579B2 patent drawing
  • US11584579B2 patent drawing
  • US11584579B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are display packages allowing consumers to quickly and easily determine whether a given mounting article should be used to hang or otherwise retain a desired object. The display packages include a projection designed to tear or otherwise separate from a backing once an object exceeding a recommended weight is mounted on the projection. If the projection remains attached to the backing, the mounting article is appropriate for the object. If the projection separates, another mounting article should be used.