Writing Instrument Packaging with Spring Clip Retention

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing packaging systems for writing instruments do not allow sufficient inspection or manipulation of the instrument, which is important for user purchasing decisions, and often fail to securely retain the instrument within the packaging.

Innovation Solution

A packaging system that includes a spring clip and a coupling component allowing the writing instrument to be removably coupled to a retaining component, enabling inspection and secure packaging by being pivotable between coupled and uncoupled positions, with a transparent upper portion for visibility and accessibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the writing instrument is securely packaged to prevent separation and theft, then security is improved, but the user cannot sufficiently inspect the writing instrument

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidinspection capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging is divided into a secure lower portion and a transparent upper portion, allowing different functions in different segments. The lower portion provides security while the upper portion enables inspection without compromising the secure packaging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent upper portion acts as an intermediary that allows visual inspection while maintaining the security of the packaged instrument. Users can view the writing instrument through this transparent section without being able to remove or damage it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the writing instrument is securely retained in the packaging, then theft prevention is improved, but the user cannot manipulate or access the instrument

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetheft preventionVSAvoidmanipulation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The packaging structure segments the retention function (lower portion with securing mechanisms) from the inspection function (upper transparent portion), allowing users to view and access the instrument through the opening while the lower portion maintains secure retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design adds a spatial dimension with the opening in the lower portion and transparent section above, creating a vertical arrangement that separates security retention from inspection access, enabling both functions simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the packaging fully encases the writing instrument, then protection is improved, but accessibility and inspection are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from damageVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The design extracts a transparent upper portion and an opening from the fully enclosed packaging, creating a viewing and access window that maintains protection while enabling inspection and manipulation of the writing instrument.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent upper portion functions as a protective shell that allows visual access while maintaining the protective enclosure, balancing protection with accessibility for inspection purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

Enables users to inspect and access the writing instrument while maintaining secure packaging, preventing theft and damage to the instrument tips.

Implementation Method 1

a spring clip having base portion and a pair of arms defining an opening therebetween

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7857537B2Writing instrument packaging
Publication Date: 2010.12.28 ACCO BRANDS CORP
  • US7857537B2 patent drawing
  • US7857537B2 patent drawing
  • US7857537B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A writing instrument system including a writing instrument and packaging generally encasing the writing instrument, wherein the packaging includes an opening formed therein. The system further includes a retaining component, configured to be releasably coupled to the writing instrument. The retaining component is configured to at least partially extend through the opening when the writing instrument is releasably coupled to the retaining component.