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Zip file includes the following ISTA Test Procedures and Projects: 1A; 1B; 1C; 1D; 1E; 1G; 1H; 2A; 2B; 2C; 3A; 3B; 3E; 3F; 3H; 3K; 3L; 6 Series OVERVIEW; 7D; 7E OVERVIEW; Guidelines for Selecting and Using ISTA Test Procedures.
2023 ISTA Resource Book (PRINTED and BOUND) includes the following ISTA Test Procedures and Projects: 1A; 1B; 1C; 1D; 1E; 1G; 1H; 2A; 2B; 2C; 3A; 3B; 3E; 3F; 3H; 3K; 3L; 6 Series OVERVIEW; 7D; 7E OVERVIEW; Guidelines for Selecting and Using ISTA Test Procedures. Cost includes shipping and handling.
Horizontal Impact Testing for Unrestrained Unitized Loads
Experimental data was collected during summer and winter test campaigns for the development of ISTA 7E Heat and Cold Profiles. Data were collected during round-trip shipments over 82 different lanes using a parcel service company. ISTA Lane Data represents the most comprehensive thermal information about small parcel shipping. This large data set can be used to create real world "what if" simulations of the performance of thermal packaging with real instances.
Packaged-Products weighing 150 lb (68 kg) or Less
Packaged-Products weighing Over 150 lb
Extended Testing for Individual Packaged-Products weighing 150 lb (68 kg) or Less
Extended Testing for Individual Packaged-Products weighing Over 150 lb (68 kg)
Unitized Loads
Packaged-Products weighing 150 lb (68 kg) or Less (Random Vibration)
Packaged-Products weighing Over 150 lb (68 kg) (Random Vibration)
Description: Packaged-Products weighing 150 lb (68 kg) or Less
Packaged-Products weighing over 150 lb (68 kg)
Furniture Packages
Packaged-Products for Parcel Delivery System Shipment 70 kg (150 lb) or Less
Packaged-Products for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Shipment
Unitized Loads of Same Product
Packaged Products for Distribution Center to Retail Outlet Shipment 100 lb (45 kg)
Performance Test for Products or Packaged-Products in Mechanically Handled Bulk Transport Containers
Thermal Controlled Transport Packaging for Parcel Delivery System Shipment
Fast Moving Consumer Goods in the European Retail Supply Chain
Generalized E-commerce Retailer Fulfillment
Over Boxing, e-Commerce Fulfillment for Parcel Delivery Shipment
Ships in Own Container (SIOC) for Amazon.com Distribution System Shipment
Packaged-Products for Sam's Club® Distribution System Shipment
$1,500.00 USD
Testing Standard for Thermal Transport Packaging Used in Parcel Delivery System Shipment. The 7E Profiles are the new standard for thermal transport testing. The standard includes heat and cold profiles developed from data gathered in real world transport. All the lane data gathered are available for purchase through ISTA.
Background: Passive insulated shipping containers (ISCs) are a common way to transport temperature sensitive products through a transport lane. Containers of this type provide thermal protection for the product using various combinations of insulating and phase change materials (PCMs). Each different container packout should be qualified to ensure that it can protect the contents from the varied seasonal thermal exposures within each transportation lane. This is accomplished by testing the container in a thermal chamber using ambient temperature test profiles. Each packout should be challenged with both a cold and a hot temperature test profile. In order to make this qualification meaningful, the ambient temperature test profiles (hereafter referred to as the OQ profiles) must cover the range of the thermal challenges expected in the transportation lane with some probability. One rational way to ensure that the OQ profiles are adequate is to create such OQ profiles using actual ambient temperature data collected from shipments made over the transportation lanes (hereafter referred to as the profiles dataset). This guidance document defines how to create risk-based OQ test profiles based on such a profiles dataset. 

 
The methodology outlined in document (a) contains two parts:
  1. Ensuring that the OQ profiles have sufficient overall thermal challenge. This is accomplished by using the QT(Min) and QT(Max) metrics.
  2. Ensuring that the OQ profiles contain appropriate thermal spikes & dips.
 
 
ISTA Data Analysis Guidelines. ISTA's guidance for analysis of Vehicle Vibration Data.

Learn about analyzing vibration data with ISTA Online Learning.  Click here for more: Distribution Data Collection & Analysis (DCA) - International Safe Transit Association (ista.org)
ISTA Data Collection Standards. ISTA's standards for measuring Atmospheric; Shock/Impacts and Drops; Vehicle Vibration.

Learn about collecting and analyzing distribution environment hazard data with ISTA Online Learning.  Click here for more: Distribution Data Collection & Analysis (DCA) - International Safe Transit Association (ista.org)
This data product is the result of an ISTA-sponsored data collection study, completed in 2020, measuring the hazards associated with the transportation modes, storage and handling involved in the distribution of Consumer Packaged Goods (CPGs), including the “last segments”, in the land routes in India within, near and between Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNP) and New Delhi. Due to complications with collecting shock data in the CPG shipments, we expanded the project to collect shock data from the parcel delivery network.

The purpose of the Parcel Delivery study was to measure the dynamic conditions related to the small parcel (express courier) shipping environment in India. 38 one-way air shipments and four one-way surface shipments between four of the major cities in India (Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai) using two different courier companies over approximately 43,000 miles were undertaken.

The information included in this data product is as follows:
  1. CPG Report and hazard data files (Excel) for vibration and atmospheric data.
  2. Parcel Delivery Report and hazard data files (Excel) for shock and atmospheric data.
  3. ISTA Data Collection Standards
  4. ISTA Data Analysis Guidelines
This data product is the result of an ISTA-sponsored data collection study, completed in 2020, measuring the hazards associated with the transportation modes, storage and handling involved in the distribution of Consumer Packaged Goods (CPGs), including the “last segments”, in the land routes in India within, near and between Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNP) and New Delhi. Due to complications with collecting shock data in the CPG shipments, we expanded the project to collect shock data from the parcel delivery network.

The purpose of the Parcel Delivery study was to measure the dynamic conditions related to the small parcel (express courier) shipping environment in India. 38 one-way air shipments and four one-way surface shipments between four of the major cities in India (Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai) using two different courier companies over approximately 43,000 miles were undertaken.

The information included in this data product is as follows:
  1. CPG Report (does not include data)
  2. Parcel Delivery Report (does not include data)
  3. ISTA Data Collection Standards
  4. ISTA Data Analysis Guidelines
This document has been prepared by the ISTA Pharma Committee, which is composed of both life science manufacturers, wholesalers, and thermal packaging/monitoring suppliers.  The terms described are considered by this committee to represent current industry consensus of the definitions for common industry terms that have been used in existing and in-development ISTA Pharma Committee guidance documents.
Developed by members of the ISTA Pharma Committee, this technical white paper discusses the use of reusable passive thermal packaging systems for temperature-controlled distribution of pharmaceutical and biological products.  The intent of this information is to establish an aligned industry best practice for the use of reusable packaging to transport temperature-sensitive medicinal products.  The level of detail beyond the suggested industry best practice is the decision of the primary stakeholders of the temperature-sensitive product, based on risk acceptance.  Thus, the examples given are for demonstration purposes only and may be more or less detailed than what is discussed in this paper.
 
This white paper provides specific guidance on the types of materials used in passive thermal packaging systems, the qualification of a reusable system, the return logistics and refurbishment service management, and refurbishment and inspection details
Developed by members of the ISTA Pharma Committee, this technical white paper discusses the operational qualification of passive thermal packaging systems for temperature-controlled distribution of pharmaceutical and biological products.  The intent of this information is to establish an aligned industry best practice for the operational qualification testing of passive thermal packaging to transport temperature-sensitive medicinal products.  The level of detail beyond the suggested industry best practice is a decision, based on the risk acceptance of the primary stakeholders of the temperature-sensitive product.  Thus, the examples given are for demonstration purposes only and may be more or less detailed than what is discussed in this paper.
Developed by members of the ISTA Pharma Committee, this best practice guidance document provides an overview of the performance qualification (PQ) and performance verification (PV) processes for thermal shipping systems used for local and global transport of temperature-sensitive product shipments. The objective of this technical guidance is to establish an aligned industry best practice for the execution of PQ/PV processes following the completion of the thermal operational qualification (OQ). The content and examples provided in this document are to be used for general industry guidance and awareness to drive a standardized best practice approach for the execution of PQ/PV processes.
Developed by members of the ISTA Pharma Committee, this best practice guidance document was established to align industry best practices for the selection, development and comparison of ATPs for use in the thermal qualification testing of thermal packaging to transport temperature-sensitive medicinal products. This collaborative effort between life science companies and solution providers resulted in a mutually beneficial and harmonized best practices guideline to aid the industry in comparing, investigating and implementing agile compliant solutions.
The ISTA Pharma Committee and Lane Management Working Group have prepared this white paper to (1) introduce the concept of Lane Management, (2) establish a definition for Lane Management and (3) provide an overview of the lifecycle approach to Lane Management.  There are various industry guidance documents on the transport of temperature-sensitive products but there are no industry guidance or position documents on the topic of Lane Management. 
The ISTA Pharma Committee and Shipping & Distribution Risk Assessment Working Group have prepared this white paper to provide an overview for developing a Shipping and Distribution Risk Assessment (RA) for the distribution of temperature-sensitive product shipments. The team sought to define the critical aspects associated with completing a shipping and distribution risk assessment; from establishing/understanding the user requirement specifications (URS) through implementation. The content and examples provided in this document are to be used for general industry guidance and awareness to drive a standardized best practice approach for conducting Shipping and Distribution Risk Assessments.
ISTA Whitepaper: Load Stability Performance Testing of Unitized Packaged-Products for Transit
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.

The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.

The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
The Rack Transport Stability Team (RTST) collaboratively developed a Mover's Guide with the objective of documenting safer handling practices for large information technology rack products such as servers and storage systems. As one of the project milestones, the intent of the Mover's Guide is to raise awareness of business partners and carriers of the potential for personal injury and/or financial loss during transport of racks. The Guide communicates and emphasizes new and existing safe handling procedures, with the goal to eliminate incidents going forward.
ISTA TouchPoints, E-retailer Fulfillment publication is a summary of detailed questions that were addressed by e-retailers coupled with an analysis of how the insight could be leveraged during the packaging design process in conjunction with laboratory testing.
 
The RPbD Guide is a step-by-step process management standard for the design, testing, and qualification of responsible packaging that meets industry, consumer, and regulatory expectations.
$10,000.00 USD
ISTA Standard 20 Revision 2 is process standard developed by pharma industry experts. It is a design and qualification process that provides the structure and path to design, test, verify and independently certify a specific Insulated Shipping Container (ISC) for use. It sets the minimum requirements for qualifying insulated shippers and has been proven to develop shippers which meet regulatory expectations. Included with Standard 20 is the Standard 7E set of global thermal profiles.
18 video presentations from the 2020 ISTA Forum. Zip file: 1.5 GB.
Imagine the challenges facing companies providing packaging solutions for milk distribution in developing countries! This presentation will share some hard-earned experiences on what happens during distribution routes, and also how Tetra Pak has tried to adapt to the needs at the sales point.
Imagine the challenges facing companies providing packaging solutions for milk distribution in developing countries! This presentation will share some hard-earned experiences on what happens during distribution routes, and also how Tetra Pak has tried to adapt to the needs at the sales point.
This session will be a discussion between two e-commerce packaging experts (Peter Apostoluk - [Millipore Sigma] & Jonathan Quinn - [NOVA Chemicals]) that will also allow for audience questioning as well. E-commerce is causing an evolving consumer with new expectations. During this session the discussion will dive into how packing has a role to play in protecting the consumer.  Packaging is enabling everyday life to be easier through e-commerce but we need to be sure we look out for making the consumers everyday life to be healthier and safer as well. e-commerce is creating a whole new set of challenges due to foods, pharmaceuticals, and detergents all being packaged together. Packaging needs to meet a new set of standards and labeling protocols that will be discussed during this discussion and the opportunity that is ahead for the industry.
While defining a new, non-packaging, role at Harris, significant cost savings opportunities in packaging were identified. Moreover, a need existed for the package engineering function to be introduced as a business process. This presentation covers the strategy executed, challenges faced, and benefits the division has realized from installing the first Package Engineering Team in the corporation.
While defining a new, non-packaging, role at Harris, significant cost savings opportunities in packaging were identified. Moreover, a need existed for the package engineering function to be introduced as a business process. This presentation covers the strategy executed, challenges faced, and benefits the division has realized from installing the first Package Engineering Team in the corporation.
This paper outlines the approach and methodology of carrying out ISTA tests using simulation technologies . The breakthrough benefits of the technology application and modifying the work process to accommodate the technology are outlines in the presentation. The presentation draws heavily on our experiences with the automotive industry during simulation adaptation and growth phase, and it discusses the challenges and successes of reapplication of this experience into the packaging industry . The ISTA tests are standard test protocols across several product verticals and are essential steps in the work process and this presentation focuses on modeling of all nuances of these standard tests. The high fidelity of the simulation and the application of these results to enable early decision process which makes the proposition very compelling powerful and phenomenal. Takeaways: The presentation outlines the benefits of performing ISTA tests using simulation technologies to help evaluate secondary and pallet design for transit loads. The use of this technology in the early phases of new package development makes it a design enabler which is more compelling and powerful than use of technology for design evaluation.
This presentation outlines the approach and methodology of carrying out ISTA tests using simulation technologies . The breakthrough benefits of the technology application and modifying the work process to accommodate the technology are outlines in the presentation. The presentation draws heavily on our experiences with the automotive industry during simulation adaptation and growth phase, and it discusses the challenges and successes of reapplication of this experience into the packaging industry . The ISTA tests are standard test protocols across several product verticals and are essential steps in the work process and this presentation focuses on modeling of all nuances of these standard tests. The high fidelity of the simulation and the application of these results to enable early decision process which makes the proposition very compelling powerful and phenomenal. Takeaways: The presentation outlines the benefits of performing ISTA tests using simulation technologies to help evaluate secondary and pallet design for transit loads. The use of this technology in the early phases of new package development makes it a design enabler which is more compelling and powerful than use of technology for design evaluation.
This presentation will enumerate the benefits of centralizing packaging data for all valued partners in your supply chain. Utilizing the cloud, the packaging industry has new ways to share information in a secure, scalable manner. We will discuss how this collaboration unlocks the potential of big data from the design stage to the retail shelf.
The chance of a lifetime. That’s what it was. The opportunity to develop a protective packaging solution for a 77 million year old mummified dinosaur called Leonardo, to ensure that the fossil could be transported from its home in Malta, Montana to NASA Houston to be scanned for remnants of internal organs within the amazingly complete torso of the petrified, mummified Brachylophosaurus Canadensis. Protecting this one-of-a-kind treasure presented a number challenges which led quickly to the recruitment of aknowledgeable and competent packaging team to work on the project, each focusing on their areas of expertise. Bill Kipp from ISTA and Dale Root from Lansmont were enlisted along with David Hagood, Amer Geirl and Jack Rickards from Sealed Air. This joint presentation will cover the background and history of the project along with the procedures applied to assess the fossil, measure the anticipated shipping environment, evaluate the candidate protective materials and then design and create an effective protective packaging system capable of safely transporting the world’s most complete articulated dinosaur 2,000 miles to its destination at NASA Houston. We’ll also explain how it got the name, Leonardo. Follow along as we monitor Leonardo the Dinosaur Mummy on the trek to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. A picture’s worth a thousand words, and this project includes 272,731 images that have been integrated with GPS and instrument data streams to provide situational 
The chance of a lifetime. That’s what it was. The opportunity to develop a protective packaging solution for a 77 million year old mummified dinosaur called Leonardo, to ensure that the fossil could be transported from its home in Malta, Montana to NASA Houston to be scanned for remnants of internal organs within the amazingly complete torso of the petrified, mummified Brachylophosaurus Canadensis. Protecting this one-of-a-kind treasure presented a number challenges which led quickly to the recruitment of aknowledgeable and competent packaging team to work on the project, each focusing on their areas of expertise. Bill Kipp from ISTA and Dale Root from Lansmont were enlisted along with David Hagood, Amer Geirl and Jack Rickards from Sealed Air. This joint presentation will cover the background and history of the project along with the procedures applied to assess the fossil, measure the anticipated shipping environment, evaluate the candidate protective materials and then design and create an effective protective packaging system capable of safely transporting the world’s most complete articulated dinosaur 2,000 miles to its destination at NASA Houston. We’ll also explain how it got the name, Leonardo. Follow along as we monitor Leonardo the Dinosaur Mummy on the trek to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. A picture’s worth a thousand words, and this project includes 272,731 images that have been integrated with GPS and instrument data streams to provide situational 
The introduction of ISTA Procedure 3C, and more recently, 3A have brought about what could be a significant trend in the design and testing of packages intended for distribution through "Parcel Delivery Systems". Compared to the requirements of the historical and traditional Procedure 1A alternative, these new protocols represent significant, and perhaps unrecognized, challenges for the designers of packages for shipment in these important delivery systems. This presentation will discuss some of the issues, particularly those which Sealed Air has encountered in their efforts in these areas over the past few years.
Sustainable Packaging within an organization should be viewed in the context of overall Sustainable Practices encompassing the entire business enterprise. For Distribution Packaging specifically, Sustainability should start with packaging performance objectives and then address more global issues such as materials, processes, metrics and standards. The selection of appropriate performance criteria then becomes crucial to the overall success of more holistic considerations of Enterprise Sustainability. This presentation will deal with both real-life examples and proposed processes for setting and working toward Sustainability objectives in Distribution Packaging operations.
Sustainable Packaging within an organization should be viewed in the context of overall Sustainable Practices encompassing the entire business enterprise. For Distribution Packaging specifically, Sustainability should start with packaging performance objectives and then address more global issues such as materials, processes, metrics and standards. The selection of appropriate performance criteria then becomes crucial to the overall success of more holistic considerations of Enterprise Sustainability. This presentation will deal with both real-life examples and proposed processes for setting and working toward Sustainability objectives in Distribution Packaging operations.
The environmental impact of packaging is debated all over the world. Companies, consumers, environmental interest groups and regulatory authorities all have opinions and agendas on the subject. A global ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standard on Packaging and the Environment is currently being created by ISO/TC 122 SC4. This presentation will provide a brief on the current state of the standards development through six Working Groups
Protecting product from possible drops during transportation is thought of more often than protecting from vibration which is inevitable. Features that attenuate vibration can be designed into cushioning material.
Protecting product from possible drops during transportation is thought of more often than protecting from vibration which is inevitable. Features that attenuate vibration can be designed into cushioning material.
Sustainable 'green' packaging for cold chain maintenance in e-Commerce will be presented. The packaging has been implemented using state-of-the-art bio-based biodegradable packaging materials: chromatogeny grafted paper, corrugated cardboard, biodegradable bioplastics, natural-fibre heat insulators and moisture absorbers. The results of field tests of the packaging performance when delivering fresh chilled commodities will be confronted with performance of simultaneously shipped industry-standard styrofoam containers.
As “Green” moves from fad to fact, stakeholders will increasingly demand that companies address sustainability in all aspects of their operations. Is the goal of maximizing profits at odds with the desire to minimize environmental impact? We will look at several factors in the transport packaging slice of the supply chain and show that sustainability and sound business practices can go hand in hand. Specific examples and case studies will suggest practical, actionable steps that any package shipper can apply.
As “Green” moves from fad to fact, stakeholders will increasingly demand that companies address sustainability in all aspects of their operations. Is the goal of maximizing profits at odds with the desire to minimize environmental impact? We will look at several factors in the transport packaging slice of the supply chain and show that sustainability and sound business practices can go hand in hand. Specific examples and case studies will suggest practical, actionable steps that any package shipper can apply.
As “Green” moves from fad to fact, stakeholders will increasingly demand that companies address sustainability in all aspects of their supply chain. Warehousing, transportation, and packaging choices all affect a company’s carbon impact. We will explore several factors related to logistics and show that sustainability and sound business practices go hand in hand. Brief examples and case studies will demonstrate practical, actionable steps that any company can apply.
We consumers are used to getting what we want, when and where we want it - we expect variety and convenience.

For the consumer goods sector, this is resulting in a growing amount of non-standard formats, small portions, increasing ecommerce demand and delivery options, always new and appealing products and packs designs, flashy retail promotional packs and displays.

CPG companies struggle to cope with such a growing amount of pack formats, resulting in an exponential increase in product repacking – products are unpacked and repacked (usually manually by contractors) to adapt to the consumer needs.

For some organizations this can be up to 30% of the volume, rapidly eroding margins and increasing packaging waste. This trend is unsustainable, from business and environmental perspectives.

We will share examples of our projects and other provocative ideas to fix the repacking problem. We will include short term fixes and medium term transformational solutions.
We consumers are used to getting what we want, when and where we want it - we expect variety and convenience.

For the consumer goods sector, this is resulting in a growing amount of non-standard formats, small portions, increasing ecommerce demand and delivery options, always new and appealing products and packs designs, flashy retail promotional packs and displays.

CPG companies struggle to cope with such a growing amount of pack formats, resulting in an exponential increase in product repacking – products are unpacked and repacked (usually manually by contractors) to adapt to the consumer needs.

For some organizations this can be up to 30% of the volume, rapidly eroding margins and increasing packaging waste. This trend is unsustainable, from business and environmental perspectives.

We will share examples of our projects and other provocative ideas to fix the repacking problem. We will include short term fixes and medium term transformational solutions.
​For centuries the scientific community has been finding ways to harvest energy from naturally occurring phenomena such as wind and solar radiation. In the last century, tremendous strides in energy harvesting have been made in tandem with the invention of novel energy harvesting devices. These devices are able to harvest ­energy from processes such as magnetism, thermal radiation, and ocean waves. 
​For centuries the scientific community has been finding ways to harvest energy from naturally occurring phenomena such as wind and solar radiation. In the last century, tremendous strides in energy harvesting have been made in tandem with the invention of novel energy harvesting devices. These devices are able to harvest ­energy from processes such as magnetism, thermal radiation, and ocean waves. 
A Transport Packaging Forum paper on the comparison between the stress-energy method and ASTM D1596 was presented in 2010. Preliminary results indicated a strong correlation between actual and predicted acceleration levels. This work represents a continuation of this initial study. A unique approach was utilized to further this comparison in order to validate the stress-energy method as an alternative analysis methodology to that presented in ASTM D1596. Three different techniques are used to compare the analysis methods. This paper details the techniques used which involves regression analysis and the use of control limits to make direct comparison to cushion curves generated using ASTM D1596.
A Transport Packaging Forum paper on the comparison between the stress-energy method and ASTM D1596 was presented in 2010. Preliminary results indicated a strong correlation between actual and predicted acceleration levels. This work represents a continuation of this initial study. A unique approach was utilized to further this comparison in order to validate the stress-energy method as an alternative analysis methodology to that presented in ASTM D1596. Three different techniques are used to compare the analysis methods. This paper details the techniques used which involves regression analysis and the use of control limits to make direct comparison to cushion curves generated using ASTM D1596.
There are currently no industry - accepted techniques for the frequency analysis of expanded polymer cushion materials. Common approaches assume linear behavior, however these materials are nonlinear and viscoelastic. This presentation investigates the nonlinear and viscoelastic behavior of cushion materials and an experimental technique developed for capturing their complex frequency response.
There are currently no industry - accepted techniques for the frequency analysis of expanded polymer cushion materials. Common approaches assume linear behavior, however these materials are nonlinear and viscoelastic. This presentation investigates the nonlinear and viscoelastic behavior of cushion materials and an experimental technique developed for capturing their complex frequency response.
Current packaging industry standards specify single axis (vertical) vibration for transportation simulation; however transportation vehicles undergo vibration in both lateral and longitudinal axes as well. Although the vertical motion is overall more intense, the lateral and longitudinal motion is often equal in intensity or even higher than that of the vertical motion within particular frequency ranges. This presentation will discuss the use of simultaneous three axis vibration as compared to single axis vibration in the evaluation of individual packaged product response and the stability of a unit load
Current packaging industry standards specify single axis (vertical) vibration for transportation simulation; however transportation vehicles undergo vibration in both lateral and longitudinal axes as well. Although the vertical motion is overall more intense, the lateral and longitudinal motion is often equal in intensity or even higher than that of the vertical motion within particular frequency ranges. This presentation will discuss the use of simultaneous three axis vibration as compared to single axis vibration in the evaluation of individual packaged product response and the stability of a unit load
This presentation addresses the question of what is the minimum number of samples that are statistically necessary to characterize the shock absorbing properties of closed-cell foams using a new method of cushion curve development. Cushion materials were evaluated, the data was statistically analyzed, and an optimum number of samples was determined.
This presentation addresses the question of what is the minimum number of samples that are statistically necessary to characterize the shock absorbing properties of closed-cell foams using a new method of cushion curve development. Cushion materials were evaluated, the data was statistically analyzed, and an optimum number of samples was determined.
The presentation will cover Lifetime's and Corruven's experience in partnering to improve packaging design for large and bulky items.          

Key points:    
1) Improve sustainability by reducing EPS foam usage.     
2) Increase product-package performance to reduce damage rates (retail and ecommerce).    
3) Reducing total costs of packaging to be more competitive.         
 
The presentation will cover testing techniques, tools, and managing expectations between partners. In addition, it will cover opportunities and pitfalls of partnering with your supplier.
Well designed packaging/product systems make a positive contribution to sustainable development but many politicians worldwide find packaging a convenient scapegoat because consumers/voters believe environmental taxes are "good" and packaging is "bad". Some regulations restrict companies' choice of packaging and have negative environmental impact. How should industry tackle this?
Well designed packaging/product systems make a positive contribution to sustainable development but many politicians worldwide find packaging a convenient scapegoat because consumers/voters believe environmental taxes are "good" and packaging is "bad". Some regulations restrict companies' choice of packaging and have negative environmental impact. How should industry tackle this?
Packaging has always evolved to match changing economic, demographic and lifestyle trends. We need the widest possible range of materials and pack types to enable it to continue. However, today, the choice of packaging is in danger of being restricted by policies that favour one type of packaging over another and by misconceptions about its environmental impact. This talk will focus on what companies can do inform consumers and policymakers about the role of packaging.
The most common unit load stabilizer is stretch film. The standard measure of film application effectiveness is containment force as described in ASTM D4649. Within certain guidelines, the final selection of the film and wrap patterns is still based on trial and error performance testing. A simple procedure that predicts containment force as a function of film properties and application method would help designers optimize unit load performance in supply chains. Various tensile properties of layered films were compared with two measures of containment force. It was determined that a tensile stiffness subsequent to non-linear relaxation was the best predictor of containment force. Various empirical models were evaluated. The effect of layering appears to be additive for many films. However, variations in material chemistry as well as poor control of pre-stretch at application, reduces the reliability of containment force predictions from physical characteristics of the film. This study points the research direction forward that will permit more reliable predictions of containment force from film properties and application methods.
Increasingly, packaging is being viewed not as an expense to be dealt with, but as an asset to be leveraged. When viewed in this way, effective package design becomes paramount. The aging of the population has also brought increased focus to the usability of packages. However, traditionally, scientific focus has heavily emphasized interactions between the product and the package, not consumers and packages. This presentation will highlight ongoing work at the MSU School of Packaging which is attempting to provide quantification to the interface between people and packages in order to create informed designs.
Increasingly, packaging is being viewed not as an expense to be dealt with, but as an asset to be leveraged. When viewed in this way, effective package design becomes paramount. The aging of the population has also brought increased focus to the usability of packages. However, traditionally, scientific focus has heavily emphasized interactions between the product and the package, not consumers and packages. This presentation will highlight ongoing work at the MSU School of Packaging which is attempting to provide quantification to the interface between people and packages in order to create informed designs.
4 Mini Case Studies of Packaging Development Projects Emphasizing Testing, Instrumented Field Shipments and Sustainable Packaging.
When customer complaints are increasing or if damage warranty claims keep creeping up, it is often a signal that something has changed in the distribution supply chain. Often, causes of packaging damage can be difficult to determine when these packaging systems have worked in the past and if they have passed current test protocols. Today’s supply chain is ever evolving and new hazards and events can work their way into proven distribution systems. When these situations arise, some basic principles can help identify what has changed and what has gone wrong. This presentation is a look into situations where companies had to figure things out fast – and solve for new shipping damage situations.
The Virtual Cold Chain allows to test a shipper against any temperature profile virtually. It is possible to get the same results in a couple of minutes compared to hours or days of climate chamber test. This allows you to test a shipper not only against standard test profiles such as ISTA, Afnor, WHO, it's now possible to test against real temperature profiles.

This real temperature profiles can come from measured data from test shipments or historical weather data.

By performing the tests using thermal simulations, we could expose the passive shipper to a greater number of different ambient temperatures, typically a few hundreds or thousands. Such a virtual risk-based approach could help get a better understanding of the risk and the probability of failure.

In a case study, the selection of a winter/summer pack out for a route and a combination with an all-season shipper is shown. After a first risk-based simulation, potential modifications for the route (different starting time) and modifications of the packout will be applied for further reductions of the risk. A second example will show the protection of products with thermal covers against temperature and sun in a virtual lane risk assessment.
The Virtual Cold Chain allows to test a shipper against any temperature profile virtually. It is possible to get the same results in a couple of minutes compared to hours or days of climate chamber test. This allows you to test a shipper not only against standard test profiles such as ISTA, Afnor, WHO, it's now possible to test against real temperature profiles.

This real temperature profiles can come from measured data from test shipments or historical weather data.

By performing the tests using thermal simulations, we could expose the passive shipper to a greater number of different ambient temperatures, typically a few hundreds or thousands. Such a virtual risk-based approach could help get a better understanding of the risk and the probability of failure.

In a case study, the selection of a winter/summer pack out for a route and a combination with an all-season shipper is shown. After a first risk-based simulation, potential modifications for the route (different starting time) and modifications of the packout will be applied for further reductions of the risk. A second example will show the protection of products with thermal covers against temperature and sun in a virtual lane risk assessment.
E-commerce offers consumers a convenient means to purchase products from all over the world. This distribution system, while offering convenience to consumers, offers challenges to packaged-products and packaging engineers. Join this presentation to learn about the challenges & opportunities that PepsiCo and other CPG companies are facing with E-Commerce.
This presentation discusses how the Ridge Tool Company’s lab helps in a variety of ways from launching projects on time with little to no shipping damage, to educating employees on possible shipping damage, to assisting in over $500,000 in cost reductions since its opening.
This presentation discusses how the Ridge Tool Company’s lab helps in a variety of ways from launching projects on time with little to no shipping damage, to educating employees on possible shipping damage, to assisting in over $500,000 in cost reductions since its opening.
This case study presents the difficulties of developing the packaging (shelf display and 1/4 pallet) for the new RapidGrip wrench and how they were overcome.
This case study presents the difficulties of developing the packaging (shelf display and 1/4 pallet) for the new RapidGrip wrench and how they were overcome.
Packaging innovation has never been more important. Demands for cost reduction, quality, sustainability, and more direct customer fulfillment among others drive the need for new packaging materials, processes, and predictive analytic tools. Learn from case studies how Dell Technologies uses circular economy principles and sustainability to drive packaging innovation and competitive advantage.
The reusable passive thermal packaging system whitepaper - best practice guideline was written by a group of volunteer SME's representing major pharmaceutical companies as well as cold chain packaging suppliers. The objective was to provide a set of principles and examples, distilled from industry best practices, for the implementation and management of reusable passive thermal packaging systems and to encourage all stakeholders in controlled-temperature supply chain community to adopt recommendations in this Guideline for the sake of alignment, consistency and environmental stewardship.
This presentation will review the three recent publications by the FBA that provide packaging performance education to various segments of the packaging community. There will be an emphasis on the most advanced of the three publications; “Edge Crush Test: Application and Reference Guide for Combined Corrugated Board”. The “ECT Guide” is a tool to educate packaging engineers in understanding ECT and creating cost-effective packaging solutions to supply chain packaging problems.
This study investigates the difference in scuffing damages of printed kraft paper between a single-axis lab vibration and an actual field event. A special fixture was designed and built to contain 4-column stacked printed packages. The ASTM D4169 truck assurance level I / II tests and field truck test were conducted respectively, based on accelerated vibration formula. The optical density of printed papers after testing were measured and compared. Fatigue cycles were computed using Rainflow counting algorithm to correlate the scuffing damages to the vibration stress cycles applied upon printing surfaces.
 
The paper will show some of the newest data being collected for vibration levels in small delivery vehicles in the "last mile" of the delivery process. In SE Asian countries deliveries of products like printers, parcels, small furniture from store to consumer are done in these vehicles, and this data has normally not been part of North American or European packaging standards. The data has been collected in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.
The presentation will show some of the newest data being collected for vibration levels in small delivery vehicles in the "last mile" of the delivery process. In SE Asian countries deliveries of products like printers, parcels, small furniture from store to consumer are done in these vehicles, and this data has normally not been part of North American or European packaging standards. The data has been collected in Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia.
Currently, 80 percent of e-commerce involves manual operations, there are a variety of opportunities in the warehouse and at the end of the packaging line to leverage automation to increase efficiency. This session will explore automation trends, robots and cobots (collaborative robots), software, box-on-demand, conveyors, case packers and palletizers, and real-world applications of how this new technology is being applied at the end of the line and in the warehouse to meet challenges posed by omnichannel distribution.
The results of ISTA’s Heat and Cold Profile Study of the 2nd Day parcel shipping environment within the United States, Thermal Laboratory Certification, and the development of a new Manual for qualifying cold chain packaging will be presented. The first part of this presentation will include a review of two studies, one in the summer and one in the winter, that were conducted to collect a large set of experimental data on the environmental conditions encountered during two-day shipments of pharmaceutical products throughout the United States. This data was then used to statistically build two general temperature profiles. A second portion of the presentation will outline the process by which thermal transport testing laboratories can become certified by ISTA. It will take you through the application process, how to prepare for audit/assessment for certification; ISTA's process and requirements; training; and reporting. The final segment of the presentation illustrates a new manual that ISTA developed to make the process easier for its cold chain member companies to follow as they qualify their cold chain packaging.
ISTA, in conjunction the Pharmaceutical Cold Chain Interest Group of the PDA, has written a protocol that will be used to record the ambient temperature and humidity data that outbound packages are exposed to during typical domestic shipments. This data will be used to create a composite profile tool that is representative of the typical conditions encountered by packages during both ground and air shipments. The profiles will be used to statistically create the exposure conditions for ISTA lab testing of transport packaging.
ISTA, in conjunction the Pharmaceutical Cold Chain Interest Group of the PDA, has written a protocol that will be used to record the ambient temperature and humidity data that outbound packages are exposed to during typical domestic shipments. This data will be used to create a composite profile tool that is representative of the typical conditions encountered by packages during both ground and air shipments. The profiles will be used to statistically create the exposure conditions for ISTA lab testing of transport packaging.
Pallets are our most common platform for unitizing, storing, and shipping products. Pallet design, quality, and performance affects packaging performance. This presentation discusses some of the interactions between packaging and pallets, and how pallet users can use these interactions to lower overall costs and reduce product damage.
Pallets are our most common platform for unitizing, storing, and shipping products. Pallet design, quality, and performance affects packaging performance. This presentation discusses some of the interactions between packaging and pallets, and how pallet users can use these interactions to lower overall costs and reduce product damage.
Pallets, Packaging, and Material Handling Equipment are best designed as a System for Lower Cost Packaging Systems. This presentation reviews Pallet and Material Handling Equipment Interactions and how to improve Pallet Performance and Reduce Pallet Costs.
Pallets, Packaging, and Material Handling Equipment are best designed as a System for Lower Cost Packaging Systems. This presentation reviews Pallet and Material Handling Equipment Interactions and how to improve Pallet Performance and Reduce Pallet Costs.
Using a special 26-drop test method, HP is able to guide product development through extensive drop testing, statistical analysis of drop test data, and determination of a field cost risk assessment.
Using a special 26-drop test method, HP is able to guide product development through extensive drop testing, statistical analysis of drop test data, and determination of a field cost risk assessment.
The corrugated packaging industry is one of the most sustainable industries in the world. Dennis will discuss the tremendous environmental progress made in the U.S. over the past 10 years and highlight the advantages of corrugated.
In 2006, Volvo North America integrated cornstarch-based protective packaging foam as a substitute for traditional fossil-fuel based foam for all their glass shipments. This presentation will discuss the process and the results over the past two years.
In 2006, Volvo North America integrated cornstarch-based protective packaging foam as a substitute for traditional fossil-fuel based foam for all their glass shipments. This presentation will discuss the process and the results over the past two years.
Industry approved testing profiles have not been developed for the Cold Chain transportation environment. This presentation will describe how to develop heat and cold testing profiles to meet your qualification needs.
Industry approved testing profiles have not been developed for the Cold Chain transportation environment. This presentation will describe how to develop heat and cold testing profiles to meet your qualification needs.
BD Diagnostic Systems’ reagent portfolio is largely liquid and prepared plated media for diagnosing infectious diseases. These products are distributed globally, and thus must withstand many transportation modes. Package performance test results and data gathered from international customers, distribution channels and project testing will be presented for both liquid and plated media. Takeaways: Results from ISTA 1A, 3A and ASTM test methods will be reviewed and contrasted to international customer feedback. Results of personnel interviews, recorded time and temperature data will be presented uncovering some of the disparity between the “envisioned” and “actual” distribution network that BD products experience during shipment.
A case history of the accelerated distribution environment qualification of a new plastic bottle and its secondary packaging. The new package was developed for low acid shelf stable liquid nutritional products as a replacement for the existing steel can. One of the challenges was to evaluate the performance potential of the new package under distribution environment stress. The evaluation method needed to provide both speed to market and minimum risk of package
Standard PSD's do not include discrete vibration events that may be a source of damage to your product. By using field data recorders, you can discover and characterize these events so they may be simulated in the laboratory. Data from domestic truck and international ocean container shipments will be used to illustrate.
Standard PSD's do not include discrete vibration events that may be a source of damage to your product. By using field data recorders, you can discover and characterize these events so they may be simulated in the laboratory. Data from domestic truck and international ocean container shipments will be used to illustrate.
Newcomers to Cold Chain Distribution (shipping products cold) may be surprised that more “standardized” information is not available in the public domain. The intent of this paper is to identify areas of research which would benefit the industry and motivate companies to share their research and findings to benefit the industry. It is believed that once this key information is available and considered a foundational base, packaging suppliers and companies will then be able to develop more effective standardized packaging solutions for cold chain distribution, reducing financial and environmental impacts. It is not the intent of this paper to address qualification protocol, procedures, or processes needed to meet government regulations such as required in the pharmaceutical industry.
Newcomers to Cold Chain Distribution (shipping products cold) may be surprised that more “standardized” information is not available in the public domain. The intent of this paper is to identify areas of research which would benefit the industry and motivate companies to share their research and findings to benefit the industry. It is believed that once this key information is available and considered a foundational base, packaging suppliers and companies will then be able to develop more effective standardized packaging solutions for cold chain distribution, reducing financial and environmental impacts. It is not the intent of this paper to address qualification protocol, procedures, or processes needed to meet government regulations such as required in the pharmaceutical industry.
Corrugated shipper conversion to a Retail Ready Package for material reduction, sustainability and retailer labor savings for Philadelphia’s 8oz Brick Cream Cheese. Technical project hurdles included optimization of corrugated perforation design for compression strength and easy opening; as well as, designing for corrugated and folding carton abrasion, adhesive and ink formulation development, and adherence to ISTA 6-SAMSCLUB Distribution Testing.
Corrugated shipper conversion to a Retail Ready Package for material reduction, sustainability and retailer labor savings for Philadelphia’s 8oz Brick Cream Cheese. Technical project hurdles included optimization of corrugated perforation design for compression strength and easy opening; as well as, designing for corrugated and folding carton abrasion, adhesive and ink formulation development, and adherence to ISTA 6-SAMSCLUB Distribution Testing.
 Packaging plays a vital role for product protection. Packaging can also provide product security during distribution. Learn how HP uses Mobile Authentication as part of their Anti-Counterfeit program to secure products throughout the distribution network, and give customers confidence they are purchasing genuine products.
This presentation will demonstrate a practical way to develop an estimate of supply chain costs based on product size and weight, and how the cost estimates can be used to influence decisions about product design and packaging.
This presentation will demonstrate a practical way to develop an estimate of supply chain costs based on product size and weight, and how the cost estimates can be used to influence decisions about product design and packaging.
In recent years a simplified method for generating cushion curves, called stress-energy, has been presented as an alternative to ASTM D1596. This presentation will summarize several data sets and compare results between the cushion curves generated by the stress-energy method and the traditional ASTM D1596 procedure.
In recent years a simplified method for generating cushion curves, called stress-energy, has been presented as an alternative to ASTM D1596. This presentation will summarize several data sets and compare results between the cushion curves generated by the stress-energy method and the traditional ASTM D1596 procedure.
New technologies are creating opportunities for packaging to be more than just product protection. Packaging can now be part of The Internet of Things, a primary vehicle for gaining deep customer insight and creating new user experiences. What if your packaging artwork came alive when viewed with a smartphone (augmented reality)? What if you could print unique graphics on every package(digital print)? What if your package could be tracked through distribution, and was the key enabler for understanding customer usage of your product? All three of these are possible. Learn how HP is making packaging part of the Internet of Things, and creating new user experiences and new revenue opportunities.
New technologies are creating opportunities for packaging to be more than just product protection. Packaging can now be part of The Internet of Things, a primary vehicle for gaining deep customer insight and creating new user experiences. What if your packaging artwork came alive when viewed with a smartphone (augmented reality)? What if you could print unique graphics on every package(digital print)? What if your package could be tracked through distribution, and was the key enabler for understanding customer usage of your product? All three of these are possible. Learn how HP is making packaging part of the Internet of Things, and creating new user experiences and new revenue opportunities.
Are you overpacking and spending more on logistics and packaging materials than necessary? Learn how filtering drop test shock pulses affects test results and packaging costs. This presentation will present recent lab data demonstrating how drop test shock pulse filtering influences packaging and logistics costs. A few key best practices for filtering shock pulses will be shared that will keep your costs down and your product protected.
Are you overpacking and spending more on logistics and packaging materials than necessary? Learn how filtering drop test shock pulses affects test results and packaging costs. This presentation will present recent lab data demonstrating how drop test shock pulse filtering influences packaging and logistics costs. A few key best practices for filtering shock pulses will be shared that will keep your costs down and your product protected.
This presentation will explain the theory behind generating cushion curves for corrugated board, along with an overview of past research results, and preliminary results from recent research.
This presentation will explain the theory behind generating cushion curves for corrugated board, along with an overview of past research results, and preliminary results from recent research.
What is an engineer to do when traditional problem solving techniques aren’t fixing the problem? This is a case study involving performance issues of corrugated boxes shipped from Asia. What started out as a seemingly straightforward issue quickly became a vexing problem unsolved by traditional packaging analysis. Learn about the approach HP engineers took to solve the issue, and the questions it raises about our understanding of corrugated box performance.
What is an engineer to do when traditional problem solving techniques aren’t fixing the problem? This is a case study involving performance issues of corrugated boxes shipped from Asia. What started out as a seemingly straightforward issue quickly became a vexing problem unsolved by traditional packaging analysis. Learn about the approach HP engineers took to solve the issue, and the questions it raises about our understanding of corrugated box performance.
Following up from 2007, this presentation will focus on additional ideas, tools, and best practices developed and used by the HP LaserJet Packaging group, as well as ideas on how to put together a compelling business case for the value of a packaging team to your organization.
Following up from 2007, this presentation will focus on additional ideas, tools, and best practices developed and used by the HP LaserJet Packaging group, as well as ideas on how to put together a compelling business case for the value of a packaging team to your organization.
What are the most effective and efficient strategies currently in place for recovering used packaging and addressing the financial challenges of collecting, sorting and transportation. Also what best practices have the 100 largest cities in the US adopted to move the needle on recycling.
Leading organizations are embracing sustainable design practices not only because they are good for the environment, but also because they are good business. Today, the concepts of sustainability are being integrated into business models and product strategies across the board. Cradle-to-Cradle programs are an example of the application of sustainable design to real-world business practices. Programs like these represent a fundamental shift away from the ‘damage-minimization’ and ‘damage-management strategies’ of the recent past and takes ‘Green’ to the next level, a level where it makes sense to business and the environment so it might actually work. This presentation will present a case study on the reasons and rationale for an innovative new R-Value program which demonstrates how a cradle-to-cradle program can be implemented quickly and successfully through the application of logic, the spirit of partnership, and a little ingenuity.
This presentation will show the process that is used to produce manufactured samples without producing a full production run for test samples. This process is used when you want to be able to test a different board combination than what you are currently using in the design. The benefit of this process of gathering samples for testing is that you will be able to test and compare two sets of manufactured samples.
This presentation will show the process that is used to produce manufactured samples without producing a full production run for test samples. This process is used when you want to be able to test a different board combination than what you are currently using in the design. The benefit of this process of gathering samples for testing is that you will be able to test and compare two sets of manufactured samples.
The common challenge: “Design a package that reduces cost, increases operational efficiency, improves customer experience, and minimizes environmental impact… and is robust enough to protect the product from any damage… and delights the customer with a thoughtful, intuitive, low-cost design.”

This presentation will follow the design process for the latest Kindle Paperwhite e-reader that includes global consumer testing, fulfillment center reviews, retailer feedback, rounds of transit testing (field and lab), a dive into sustainability and ventures into automation optimization with packaging suppliers and device manufacturers. The result is a design that pushes the boundaries of device packaging and meets the challenge by delighting customers with an innovative lean structure, 30% cost reduction, 72% more units per pallet, and a reduction of paper equal to six thousand trees per million devices. What was once a “moonshot” has become our newest reality and most optimized packaging structure to date.
This presentation will review the analysis made in previous research papers and complement it with additional measurements done during the summer 2015. From this review, a model will be presented to calculate inside-container temperature function of outside min/max temperatures during ground and sea transportation.
This presentation will review the analysis made in previous research papers and complement it with additional measurements done during the summer 2015. From this review, a model will be presented to calculate inside-container temperature function of outside min/max temperatures during ground and sea transportation.
Creating and executing a Master Test Plan is a crucial component of "Responsible Packaging by Design", a new guidance document and procedure recently released by ISTA. This presentation will illustrate the importance of packaged product performance testing when designing responsible packaging, the Master Test Plan's place in the process, the various steps in assembling and executing the Master Test Plan and the test laboratory's roles and responsibilities.
The International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) has created a standard to provide packaging professionals with a detailed approach to package design that will have a direct impact on reducing product damage and improving the environmental performance of the packaging value chain. The design protocol will provide a logical, sequential, step-by-step process for creating a package that meets the objectives of sustainability. It is intended to be "LCA and LCT driven" and assesses the packaging in the context of the product and its functional role which includes all three packaging levels: Primary or consumer unit packaging, secondary or merchandising unit packaging, and tertiary or transport packaging
This presentation will discuss the research performed in order to characterize and analyze in-flight aircraft vibration of a turbo propeller (feeder) aircraft. Methods of collection and results will be presented to better understand the cargo environment of feeder aircraft as they transport packaged products.
This presentation will discuss the research performed in order to characterize and analyze in-flight aircraft vibration of a turbo propeller (feeder) aircraft. Methods of collection and results will be presented to better understand the cargo environment of feeder aircraft as they transport packaged products.
Although stretch wrap is the most common material used in the transport packaging industry to unitize loads, very little is understood about how the material behaves during transit. The purpose of stretch wrap is to unitize and prevent the individual units from shifting and moving on the pallet deck during transport. When applying stretch film to the load, there are a variety of parameters which can be adjusted in order to generate different on-pallet stretch percentages. The most common of these parameters is pre-stretch percentage. In addition to pre-stretch, other common parameters include the number of revolutions and tension on the unit load. Missing from the literature available, are how these parameters affect the response of a unit load during a simulated truck transport.

The project captured the transmissibility responses from two different unit load systems employing three different stretch wrap parameters. The pre-stretch variable for this project was held constant, and adjustments were made to other parameters in order to produce negative, neutral, and positive on-pallet stretch percentage. Results from this project will aid in determining how different film grades and stretch wrap parameters affect the unit loads response when excited using industry standard random vibration power spectral density (PSD) profiles.
Although stretch wrap is the most common material used in the transport packaging industry to unitize loads, very little is understood about how the material behaves during transit. The purpose of stretch wrap is to unitize and prevent the individual units from shifting and moving on the pallet deck during transport. When applying stretch film to the load, there are a variety of parameters which can be adjusted in order to generate different on-pallet stretch percentages. The most common of these parameters is pre-stretch percentage. In addition to pre-stretch, other common parameters include the number of revolutions and tension on the unit load. Missing from the literature available, are how these parameters affect the response of a unit load during a simulated truck transport.

The project captured the transmissibility responses from two different unit load systems employing three different stretch wrap parameters. The pre-stretch variable for this project was held constant, and adjustments were made to other parameters in order to produce negative, neutral, and positive on-pallet stretch percentage. Results from this project will aid in determining how different film grades and stretch wrap parameters affect the unit loads response when excited using industry standard random vibration power spectral density (PSD) profiles.
Packaging is vital to the world in which we live; about half of all packaging is used to package food (Robertson, 2006). Therefore, it is important to properly select packaging systems that will adequately contain and protect the product from processing through to the consumer.
Packaging is vital to the world in which we live; about half of all packaging is used to package food (Robertson, 2006). Therefore, it is important to properly select packaging systems that will adequately contain and protect the product from processing through to the consumer.
Over the past several years, various vehicle vibration analysis techniques have been proposed. This presentation discusses the discoveries made when an independent lab utilized these methods in the simulation of vertical vibration. Data was collected, analyzed, and used to simulate the vibration input to refrigerators during transportation.
Over the past several years, various vehicle vibration analysis techniques have been proposed. This presentation discusses the discoveries made when an independent lab utilized these methods in the simulation of vertical vibration. Data was collected, analyzed, and used to simulate the vibration input to refrigerators during transportation.
This presentation will discuss the research performed in order to characterize and analyze vibration of bottled water delivery vehicles. Methods of collection and results will be presented. These results will aid in the development of testing profiles and practices for this environment.
This presentation will discuss the research performed in order to characterize and analyze vibration of bottled water delivery vehicles. Methods of collection and results will be presented. These results will aid in the development of testing profiles and practices for this environment.
Further analysis of vehicle vibration techniques is examined in this continued presentation from the ISTA TransPack Forum 2013. This presentation examines the findings when additional packaged products are subjected to different techniques of vertical vibration simulation. Over the road vehicle vibration data was collected, analyzed, and used to simulate the vibration input to packaged products during transportation. Results will compare the findings of the different vibration techniques. Correlation of test results will also be compared to field samples. Additionally, the presentation will also explore the opportunity of reduced test time without compromising the actual field data collected. Different methods for reducing test time will be explored and compared to field samples. Results and discoveries of this trial will be introduced.
Further analysis of vehicle vibration techniques is examined in this continued presentation from the ISTA TransPack Forum 2013. This presentation examines the findings when additional packaged products are subjected to different techniques of vertical vibration simulation. Over the road vehicle vibration data was collected, analyzed, and used to simulate the vibration input to packaged products during transportation. Results will compare the findings of the different vibration techniques. Correlation of test results will also be compared to field samples. Additionally, the presentation will also explore the opportunity of reduced test time without compromising the actual field data collected. Different methods for reducing test time will be explored and compared to field samples. Results and discoveries of this trial will be introduced.
As temperature-controlled pioneers and experts, Lifoam sought to optimize its approach surrounding thermal modeling, respective to the importance of servicing its customer base in a timely and cost-effective manner, yet not to compromise quality. As with any cold chain solution, thermal testing requires significant time vested into quality analysis. Understanding the value in maximizing laboratory chamber time for projects, while maintaining the integrity of data collected, Lifoam turned to SmartCAE and thus, over time, adjusted attributes related to the program/approach which improved our ability to thermal model solutions faster and with better accuracy.
Discussion of what techniques are used to evaluate a new insulation material. Includes teaching about R-value measurement, manufacturability, equivalency techniques, cushion curves, and financial viability.
Flexible packaging has been increasing in volume replacing more traditional rigid formats such as glass jars and steel cans.  While this flexibility provides benefits such as lighter weight and easier opening, it can provide challenges in secondary packaging and transportation.  In addition, many flexible packages are made from films which utilize multiple layers of different materials.  Often these materials are dissimilar and form incompatible melts upon reprocessing.  This renders these films and the packages made from them unsuitable for mechanical recycling.  New technologies that allow for either the recycling of multilayer flexible films or energy recovery will be discussed as will the importance of transportation packaging and safety in sustainability.
This presentation provides an introduction to Ergonomics and Manual Material Handling. As members of ISTA and the packaging community, we are in a unique position to help improve ergonomics as it relates to handling products, packages, and unit loads. Takeaways: A better understanding of how to recognize high-risk manual material handling work tasks and choose effective options for reducing their physical demands, increasing general safety and health aspects of work environments, and increasing productivity.
This presentation provides an introduction to Ergonomics and Manual Material Handling. As members of ISTA and the packaging community, we are in a unique position to help improve ergonomics as it relates to handling products, packages, and unit loads. Takeaways: A better understanding of how to recognize high-risk manual material handling work tasks and choose effective options for reducing their physical demands, increasing general safety and health aspects of work environments, and increasing productivity.
The presentation will review the benefits and disadvantages with individual package level temperature monitoring devices compared to the development of a qualified package for temperature sensitive products. Several temperature monitoring devices will be discussed, including how their effectiveness is highly based on the users handling procedures and temperature results analysis. The process for developing a qualified shipping package and its corresponding temperature profile will be outlined.
Temperature monitoring challenges in food industry. Temperature monitoring challenges in pharmaceutical industry. How crucial are temperature excursions in daily decision making for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
On site installations and relocation of printers has become an increased source of “packaging” related field concerns in recent years for Lexmark. This presentation reviews what the Lexmark Packaging team has learned by participating in installations and working hand in hand with product engineering teams at Lexmark. Additionally, this presentation will cover how the Lexmark packaging team is adapting current specifications along with the ISTA standards to simulate the environments encountered during installations and the relocation of printers.
On site installations and relocation of printers has become an increased source of “packaging” related field concerns in recent years for Lexmark. This presentation reviews what the Lexmark Packaging team has learned by participating in installations and working hand in hand with product engineering teams at Lexmark. Additionally, this presentation will cover how the Lexmark packaging team is adapting current specifications along with the ISTA standards to simulate the environments encountered during installations and the relocation of printers.
This presentation aims to present why a smart re-design of an existing packaging solution needs to be matched with the right choice of test method(s) to achieve a successful implementation where the ultimate goals of both field performance and cost reduction is fulfilled within an optimal time frame. Takeaways: If we truly look at the packaging as a system consisting of a product and different packaging components it is easier to match creative re-design ideas with appropriate test methods. This will contribute to the reduction of development time and cost and guarantee a successful implementation of a cost take-out project.
This presentation aims to present why a smart re-design of an existing packaging solution needs to be matched with the right choice of test method(s) to achieve a successful implementation where the ultimate goals of both field performance and cost reduction is fulfilled within an optimal time frame. Takeaways: If we truly look at the packaging as a system consisting of a product and different packaging components it is easier to match creative re-design ideas with appropriate test methods. This will contribute to the reduction of development time and cost and guarantee a successful implementation of a cost take-out project.
Rail intermodal transportation has changed radically since its early years. This presentation will illustrate these changes and what they mean to today’s shipper, and offer a preview of a new intermodal ride quality study.
Rail intermodal transportation has changed radically since its early years. This presentation will illustrate these changes and what they mean to today’s shipper, and offer a preview of a new intermodal ride quality study.
What is happening within the Supply Chain from the Producer all the way to the Retailer. How some large companies often underestimate packaging; they do not believe in the advantages that a well designed and, of course, tested packaging can offer. The only thing that matters to them are the costs, and not the product and packaging integrity. Many times they do not realize the contribution that good packaging can make to overall system cost savings. Once they realize that, the opportunities begin to grow for us, the packaging people. This presentation will show how that trend is starting to change.
What is happening within the Supply Chain from the Producer all the way to the Retailer. How some large companies often underestimate packaging; they do not believe in the advantages that a well designed and, of course, tested packaging can offer. The only thing that matters to them are the costs, and not the product and packaging integrity. Many times they do not realize the contribution that good packaging can make to overall system cost savings. Once they realize that, the opportunities begin to grow for us, the packaging people. This presentation will show how that trend is starting to change.
Of the several pre-shipment packaging tests we perform to qualify a full Unitized Load (UL) ASTM D 6179, Rotational Edge Drop - Test Method A or Test Method C depending on the weight of the UL, is one of the more subjective tests. However, these tests are the most important. If the UL fails this test the rest of the sequence tests are aborted because if the load can’t be moved successfully it is too unstable for the continued testing of shipping and warehousing capability. Those of you who have practiced these test methods are all too aware of the potentials of trashing the wooden pallet, not to mention the load, and the associated ergonomic/safety issues one is exposed to during the testing. To that end we have designed and developed a new testing apparatus for practicing these test methods.
Of the several pre-shipment packaging tests we perform to qualify a full Unitized Load (UL) ASTM D 6179, Rotational Edge Drop - Test Method A or Test Method C depending on the weight of the UL, is one of the more subjective tests. However, these tests are the most important. If the UL fails this test the rest of the sequence tests are aborted because if the load can’t be moved successfully it is too unstable for the continued testing of shipping and warehousing capability. Those of you who have practiced these test methods are all too aware of the potentials of trashing the wooden pallet, not to mention the load, and the associated ergonomic/safety issues one is exposed to during the testing. To that end we have designed and developed a new testing apparatus for practicing these test methods.
Until just a few years ago practically all of Clorox products were shipped by "brown box", i.e. corrugated cases mostly undecorated. Challenges have confronted us for the past few years with the onset of "warehouse club" unitized load (UL) retail business both in the construction and the handling, shipping and warehousing of this style of selling goods.
Many of the major retailers today must sell through both retail outlets and online channels to remain competitive and relevant. This change in the delivery process is transforming retail supply chains from a unitized bulk storage operation to a single package environment. However, in the current transition state, retailers are challenged with managing the balance between cost and performance. The task of package design and test requirements becomes more challenging when products are established in a “Brick and Mortar” retail business, and begin to rapidly gain sales in the online environment. Takeaways: Understand the difficulty of designing universal packaging and to explore options for finding the appropriate balance between the right “retail” package and the right “E-Commerce” package. Explain different ways, data, testing and research can help strike the right balance for the design approach.
Many of the major retailers today must sell through both retail outlets and online channels to remain competitive and relevant. This change in the delivery process is transforming retail supply chains from a unitized bulk storage operation to a single package environment. However, in the current transition state, retailers are challenged with managing the balance between cost and performance. The task of package design and test requirements becomes more challenging when products are established in a “Brick and Mortar” retail business, and begin to rapidly gain sales in the online environment. Takeaways: Understand the difficulty of designing universal packaging and to explore options for finding the appropriate balance between the right “retail” package and the right “E-Commerce” package. Explain different ways, data, testing and research can help strike the right balance for the design approach.
Every customer and every consumer wants to have a way to verify that they get what they ordered.  Whether we are buying a car or a pound of ground meat, we want to be able to independently verify the parameters, like gas mileage or weight, which impact our purchasing decision.
Every customer and every consumer wants to have a way to verify that they get what they ordered.  Whether we are buying a car or a pound of ground meat, we want to be able to independently verify the parameters, like gas mileage or weight, which impact our purchasing decision.
The presentation covers two case studies involving packaging solutions. Both case studies will involve a new design with the objective of creating a greener package while minimizing the total cost. The first case will show the process of an LCD monitor package redesign because the original package contained too much volume, the corrugated box and EPS Foam was not environmental, creating a large amount of “white pollution” and the size of the box is consuming too much space during storing and shipping, increasing the carbon footprint. Corrugated packaging cushion is used to replace the EPS Foam Cushion and testing is done to validate the new design. The second case covers package re-design of a LCD panel. Considering the recycling and reuse of the package, recyclable packaging has replaced the one time use package. The new standardized packaging design is able to store and transport LCD panels from one place to another and both the inner and outer packaging can be reused multiple times. Lastly, the new paper pallet will be introduced. This is a revolutionary design which allows automation and providing over 1000 kg force of vertical compression strength. Overall, the presentation analyzes the core elements of package design, testing, and performance.
The presentation covers two case studies involving packaging solutions. Both case studies will involve a new design with the objective of creating a greener package while minimizing the total cost. The first case will show the process of an LCD monitor package redesign because the original package contained too much volume, the corrugated box and EPS Foam was not environmental, creating a large amount of “white pollution” and the size of the box is consuming too much space during storing and shipping, increasing the carbon footprint. Corrugated packaging cushion is used to replace the EPS Foam Cushion and testing is done to validate the new design. The second case covers package re-design of a LCD panel. Considering the recycling and reuse of the package, recyclable packaging has replaced the one time use package. The new standardized packaging design is able to store and transport LCD panels from one place to another and both the inner and outer packaging can be reused multiple times. Lastly, the new paper pallet will be introduced. This is a revolutionary design which allows automation and providing over 1000 kg force of vertical compression strength. Overall, the presentation analyzes the core elements of package design, testing, and performance.
Sustainability is one of the hottest topics in the packaging industry today. More major retailers are issuing mandates for brand owners to make packaging more environmentally friendly. It is important to consider the impact of sustainability on distribution channels and transit.
 
There are many factors to consider when developing a sustainability strategy for packaging and this presentation will explore the requirements, steps, and benefits to consider when developing a sustainability packaging strategy, such as:
  • Meeting retailer requirements (Wal-Mart score card, Target, Amazon).
  • The impact of sustainability methodologies such as use of recycled materials or light-weighting on distribution channels -Alignment with Corporate Social Responsibility strategies.
  • Meeting consumer requirements/wishes (becoming increasingly important to consumer purchase decisions).
  • Cost savings (sustainable solutions may be more cost-effective solutions).
  • Provide a consistent framework for packaging sustainability across brands and the company.
The cushion curve is a widely used tool to determine cushion dimensions for protective packaging. The cushion bearing area and thickness derived from cushion curves apply only to a flat cushion as specimens used to develop the cushion curves are flat foam samples. However, most cushion structures in packaging are end cap cushions, edge cushions or corner cushions. This study attempts to find the difference in cushion curves between a flat cushions and a corner cushions, especially the G-value and the bearing area.
The cushion curve is a widely used tool to determine cushion dimensions for protective packaging. The cushion bearing area and thickness derived from cushion curves apply only to a flat cushion as specimens used to develop the cushion curves are flat foam samples. However, most cushion structures in packaging are end cap cushions, edge cushions or corner cushions. This study attempts to find the difference in cushion curves between a flat cushions and a corner cushions, especially the G-value and the bearing area.
This study presents a patented technology that makes insulation packaging from a corrugated board structure that fills packaging voids with a phase changing material (PCM). The filled panel, or sleeve, can be added to a standard shipping container as well as primary packaging to insulate the packaging. The temperature change of a chocolate bar wrapped with this insulation package is measured. In addition, Edge Crush (ECT) and Cobb tests are conducted to compare the ECT value of the insulation packaging to the conventional corrugated board.
This study presents a patented technology that makes insulation packaging from a corrugated board structure that fills packaging voids with a phase changing material (PCM). The filled panel, or sleeve, can be added to a standard shipping container as well as primary packaging to insulate the packaging. The temperature change of a chocolate bar wrapped with this insulation package is measured. In addition, Edge Crush (ECT) and Cobb tests are conducted to compare the ECT value of the insulation packaging to the conventional corrugated board.
This presentation shares findings of an ISTA Advocate Program sponsored research project: Field observation conducted on the transport modes, storage, and handling methods involved in the distribution of consumer packed goods in China including the 'last mile' segment.
When it comes to packaging sustainability, what matters most? There is no shortage of important issues, but prioritization is constantly shifting and evolving. This presentation gives an overview of the most current understanding of packaging sustainability considerations, including industry trends, regulatory happenings, and ways to contextualize and articulate the sustainability story of packaging.
When considering the choices of temperature controlled packaging in terms of sustainability, companies need to know how to evaluate packaging materials. Using expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging as an example this presentation will demonstrate how life cycle information can play a key role in evaluating environmental impacts and determining sustainability. An EPS Product Environmental Declaration will be reviewed, showing how package performance, environmental impacts over the life of the product and end-of-life options can be used to evaluate packaging.
Today, many companies build their brand primarily though their online interactions with customers and the packages that arrive at their customers doorsteps. The importance of brand is increasing due to competitive pressure from the largest retailers, disruptors, and store brands.  As a result, businesses are looking to own their brand experience to drive future sales. A key component of the brand experience is protective packaging to capitalize on the unboxing experience and reduce the occurrences of negative customer experiences. This session will dive into the quantifiable value provided by delivering a positive customer experience and its impact on future sales.
All types of packagings have a certain level of leakproofness appropriate to their specific application range and filling substance. The aim of safe dangerous goods packagings is to protect persons, the environment and economic goods from hazardous materials. In this context, the detection of leaks by performing a leakproofness test is of particular importance. The leakproofness of packagings and IBCs for the transport of liquid dangerous goods is one of the basic requirements of the United Nations “Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods”. Leakproofness needs to be demonstrated as part of the prototype test as a basis for the approval of the design type and any packagings and IBCs consequently manufactured for the transport of liquids.
All types of packagings have a certain level of leakproofness appropriate to their specific application range and filling substance. The aim of safe dangerous goods packagings is to protect persons, the environment and economic goods from hazardous materials. In this context, the detection of leaks by performing a leakproofness test is of particular importance. The leakproofness of packagings and IBCs for the transport of liquid dangerous goods is one of the basic requirements of the United Nations “Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods”. Leakproofness needs to be demonstrated as part of the prototype test as a basis for the approval of the design type and any packagings and IBCs consequently manufactured for the transport of liquids.
This presentation will give an overview of the air change rates, temperatures, and humidities in freight containers during trips from Europe to Singapore and Australia. A freight container fully equipped with measurement instruments was used. The container was fitted with a 27 channel temperature measurement system, GPS data logger and a temperature /humidity data logger. It was loaded with two intermediate bulk containers (IBC) of water and four 220 liter plastic drums of water. The air temperature at three levels in the container and the temperature at the top and bottom of the water in the IBCs and drums were measured.
This presentation will give an overview of the air change rates, temperatures, and humidities in freight containers during trips from Europe to Singapore and Australia. A freight container fully equipped with measurement instruments was used. The container was fitted with a 27 channel temperature measurement system, GPS data logger and a temperature /humidity data logger. It was loaded with two intermediate bulk containers (IBC) of water and four 220 liter plastic drums of water. The air temperature at three levels in the container and the temperature at the top and bottom of the water in the IBCs and drums were measured.
Design primary packaging that can withstand the ‘last mile’, so that the only prep required when fulfilling a new order is to attach a label and ship it. Yes, that means your product ships from the original manufacturer in more robust packaging that might be more than is needed. But it might be worth it…
Design primary packaging that can withstand the ‘last mile’, so that the only prep required when fulfilling a new order is to attach a label and ship it. Yes, that means your product ships from the original manufacturer in more robust packaging that might be more than is needed. But it might be worth it…
Determining static loading and cushion curves are essential for any cushion design, but are generally only the beginning of a good design, not the end. A cushion design's geometry also plays a vital role in the performance of a cushion. This study visually analyzes, the effects that a PE cushion's geometry has on performance, using a high speed video camera.
Determining static loading and cushion curves are essential for any cushion design, but are generally only the beginning of a good design, not the end. A cushion design's geometry also plays a vital role in the performance of a cushion. This study visually analyzes, the effects that a PE cushion's geometry has on performance, using a high speed video camera.
This presentation shares findings of an ISTA Advocate Program sponsored research project: Field observation conducted on the transport modes, storage, and handling methods involved in the distribution of consumer packed goods in China including the 'last mile' segment.
 "In the past, IBM packaging engineers were dispersed throughout various organizations, each representing different segments within the company, with very little interaction with one another. As a result, we had a splintered strategy for packaging and distribution, most of our best practices were not widely adopted, customers were confused by very different packaging solutions for similar products, and the proverbial wheel was reinvented over and over again. 
To create a cohesive strategy and to begin sharing and implementing best practices across the corporation, IBM's Integrated Supply Chain created a cross-brand packaging engineering Center of Competency (CoC), which united all engineers under a single leadership team. This Award Winning CoC created an environment that fostered a philosophy that encouraged knowledge sharing, skills development, innovation, recording of results, and accountability. The results yielded significant cost reductions, environmental improvements, increases in quality, and best of all: improvements in the skills of each engineer so he/she could adjust to new challenges that come with an ever-changing global supply chain. Takeaways: The benefits of consolidating the packaging subject matter experts; challenges and methods to promote integration and information sharing and engagement for a global engineering team; examples of goals and measurements; methods to promote your team's accomplishments."
 "In the past, IBM packaging engineers were dispersed throughout various organizations, each representing different segments within the company, with very little interaction with one another. As a result, we had a splintered strategy for packaging and distribution, most of our best practices were not widely adopted, customers were confused by very different packaging solutions for similar products, and the proverbial wheel was reinvented over and over again. 
To create a cohesive strategy and to begin sharing and implementing best practices across the corporation, IBM's Integrated Supply Chain created a cross-brand packaging engineering Center of Competency (CoC), which united all engineers under a single leadership team. This Award Winning CoC created an environment that fostered a philosophy that encouraged knowledge sharing, skills development, innovation, recording of results, and accountability. The results yielded significant cost reductions, environmental improvements, increases in quality, and best of all: improvements in the skills of each engineer so he/she could adjust to new challenges that come with an ever-changing global supply chain. Takeaways: The benefits of consolidating the packaging subject matter experts; challenges and methods to promote integration and information sharing and engagement for a global engineering team; examples of goals and measurements; methods to promote your team's accomplishments."
Lithium ion Batteries have become almost indispensable in today’s society.   Everything from our phones, tablets, and computers to our cars, toothbrushes, even our cigarettes are now powered with Lithium ion batteries.  But these famous batteries have also become somewhat infamous due to several high profile incidents.  We have all seen the spectacular explosions of phones in pockets, hoverboards in driveways, and even catastrophic plane crashes, all of which have been attributed to thermal runaway events from Lithium Ion batteries.    As a result of this ICAO and IATA have classified these batteries as Dangerous Goods, and have set rules for labeling, packaging, and types of aircraft that can ship them.  This presentation will go through how IBM has navigated the changing landscape surrounding the transport of Lithium Ion batteries and our products that use them.
This presentation challenges the practicality of the "retail standard" of physical packaging condition.
This presentation challenges the practicality of the "retail standard" of physical packaging condition.
Laboratory studies, which illustrate the thermal performance of critical design inputs for gel refrigerants, will be presented. This presentation will educate attendees to the important design considerations when evaluating competing refrigerant designs and will provide information on how to set up laboratory studies which can more precisely demonstrate temperature controlled packaging performance in the field.
Laboratory studies, which illustrate the thermal performance of critical design inputs for gel refrigerants, will be presented. This presentation will educate attendees to the important design considerations when evaluating competing refrigerant designs and will provide information on how to set up laboratory studies which can more precisely demonstrate temperature controlled packaging performance in the field.
A summary of the unique temperature control requirements presenting themselves to brand owners, logistics firms and thermal solution providers for the lifesciences industries.  Existing regulations and guidance will be identified that are relevant to temperature control and supply chain security.  The presentation will provide tools and strategies for implementing state of the art solutions for temperature control and supply chain security.
Every day, Intel Corporation airfreights extremely fragile, high value silicon wafers around the world with aggressive damage constraints and lowest total cost expectations. To meet these expectations, Intel engineers utilize information from data recorders to CCTV, and work closely with logistics internal and external partners, leading to continuous shipping lane, mode, test and design changes.
Every day, Intel Corporation airfreights extremely fragile, high value silicon wafers around the world with aggressive damage constraints and lowest total cost expectations. To meet these expectations, Intel engineers utilize information from data recorders to CCTV, and work closely with logistics internal and external partners, leading to continuous shipping lane, mode, test and design changes.
During transport a payload experiences multi degree of freedom (MDOF) movement. However, during vibration testing, packaging is subjected to random vibration in the vertical plane only. While such a simplification maybe suitable for approximating vehicle response, its appropriateness for simulating the response of the payload (product) is less clear. This presentation asks the question: Is there a need for MDOF vibration testing?
During transport a payload experiences multi degree of freedom (MDOF) movement. However, during vibration testing, packaging is subjected to random vibration in the vertical plane only. While such a simplification maybe suitable for approximating vehicle response, its appropriateness for simulating the response of the payload (product) is less clear. This presentation asks the question: Is there a need for MDOF vibration testing?
Therapeutic Protein Solutions continue to be the fastest growing segment in human healthcare. These medicines are monoclonal antibodies, easily recognized by the body and designed to treat a number of chronic disease states. These antibodies are often formulated into solution and administered from a vial or prefilled syringe. Classic thermal stability studies, intended to define chemical stability over time have, at times, underestimated some of the physical sensitivities of this newer class of medicine. Transportation testing, based on ISTA profiles, helps the drug development team select robust formulations to assure successful commercialization.
Therapeutic Protein Solutions continue to be the fastest growing segment in human healthcare. These medicines are monoclonal antibodies, easily recognized by the body and designed to treat a number of chronic disease states. These antibodies are often formulated into solution and administered from a vial or prefilled syringe. Classic thermal stability studies, intended to define chemical stability over time have, at times, underestimated some of the physical sensitivities of this newer class of medicine. Transportation testing, based on ISTA profiles, helps the drug development team select robust formulations to assure successful commercialization.
Within pharmaceutical supply chains, most attention has been focused on “last mile”. This distribution segment is thought to contain the highest levels of variability with respect to transport hazards. This presentation examines a special case found in the “first mile” within the lifecycle of a parenteral combination product.

Glass has been and will continue to be used as a primary container for parenteral solutions. Therefore, glass quality is a critical quality attribute. Defect-free glass ensures the sterility and safety of the overall combination product spanning the time from initial processing to patient use.

Findings from the study shared emphasizes that this “first mile” defect analysis has been neglected by most companies producing parental products and combination products. Glass defect rates have been tolerated to date. A recent commercial offering has focused on making a “stronger” glass at a considerable premium, without examining the root cause of defects.

Important tool used in identifying the root cause is a specialty known as “Glass Fractography.”
"Determination of tall load stability has historically been through the use of a tip test while the product is on a pallet. With most tip-overs occurring when the product is moved by pallet jack or forklift, this is not a realistic test. This presentation addresses the dynamic forces experienced during handling, permitting the analytical determination of tall rack/product stability without the need for testing. Takeaways: 
1. Consideration that there may be a better way to determine tall load stability when mounted on a foam shock pallet than using the tilt test. 
2. Consideration for the use of analytics to determine stability to enhance throughput in configuration centers. 
3. Consideration for a unique specification for tall electronic cabinetry."
"Determination of tall load stability has historically been through the use of a tip test while the product is on a pallet. With most tip-overs occurring when the product is moved by pallet jack or forklift, this is not a realistic test. This presentation addresses the dynamic forces experienced during handling, permitting the analytical determination of tall rack/product stability without the need for testing. Takeaways: 
1. Consideration that there may be a better way to determine tall load stability when mounted on a foam shock pallet than using the tilt test. 
2. Consideration for the use of analytics to determine stability to enhance throughput in configuration centers. 
3. Consideration for a unique specification for tall electronic cabinetry."
In an effort to improve the handling and transportation of top heavy IT Products, the Rack Transport Stability Team pooled their collective knowledge and experience. This presentation summarizes product development trends, techniques used to manage transportation, analysis of the dynamics of handling these products, and impact on test methodology.
In an effort to improve the handling and transportation of top heavy IT Products, the Rack Transport Stability Team pooled their collective knowledge and experience. This presentation summarizes product development trends, techniques used to manage transportation, analysis of the dynamics of handling these products, and impact on test methodology.
How to Best Use Historic and Actual Lane Map Data Within the Guidelines Developed by ISTA.
How to Best Use Historic and Actual Lane Map Data Within the Guidelines Developed by ISTA.
New and different approach to reuseable packaging. Currently reuseable packaging is mostly limited to closed environments. Typically the packaging must be returned to the original pack out location. Compadre is starting a paradigm shift that reuseable packaging be more available locally and to a broader community. In other words, go outside the normal closed loop. The packaging would be designed to transform to meet the different needs of the initial receiver and also be designed to be reused by members of an expanded local community. The key is designing the packaging so that it transforms to meet broader needs and stays in the community. This would be very responsible packaging. It would have an extended life that would delay a trip to recycling or the landfill. There also would be a significant impact on holistic cost savings. We will present case studies, including ISTA testing data.
Current industry test standards such as ISTA and ASTM select mechanical shocks based on the weight of a packaged product. These mechanical shock events are typically performed using a free fall drop tester to drop a package in a prescribed orientation from a selected drop height. The drop heights used are currently based on the packaged product weight; the heavier the package the shorter the drop height distance.
Current industry test standards such as ISTA and ASTM select mechanical shocks based on the weight of a packaged product. These mechanical shock events are typically performed using a free fall drop tester to drop a package in a prescribed orientation from a selected drop height. The drop heights used are currently based on the packaged product weight; the heavier the package the shorter the drop height distance.
Corrugated boxes with identical ECT and/or BCT can provide remarkably different long term compression performance, which is not well addressed by typical end user specification practices. An examination of critical properties of corrugated board and its component papers provides insights for increasing useful box life. This presentation will examine issues associated with current end user specification methods, identify key factors which accelerate loss of box compression strength, and propose new approaches for improving long term box compression performance. More relevant specifications should result in lower cost and reduced environmental impact.
Corrugated boxes with identical ECT and/or BCT can provide remarkably different long term compression performance, which is not well addressed by typical end user specification practices. An examination of critical properties of corrugated board and its component papers provides insights for increasing useful box life. This presentation will examine issues associated with current end user specification methods, identify key factors which accelerate loss of box compression strength, and propose new approaches for improving long term box compression performance. More relevant specifications should result in lower cost and reduced environmental impact.
Stretch film is a 3.0 billion pound a year global market. Where does all that plastic film end up? What are the alternatives to stretch film? What has the industry done to lessen the impact on our environment? What is the future of unitizing loads for transport? This presentation will help to answer these questions.
Stretch film is a 3.0 billion pound a year global market. Where does all that plastic film end up? What are the alternatives to stretch film? What has the industry done to lessen the impact on our environment? What is the future of unitizing loads for transport? This presentation will help to answer these questions.
A landmark year in the history of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Bill Mascaro from the NMFTA and Dan Hill with ABF Freight System, Inc. explore implications of the Surface Transportation Board’s removal of anti-trust immunity from the rate setting bureaus and what this may mean for domestic and international shippers. The session will also include the process of how minimum packaging requirements are developed, reviewed and adopted.
A landmark year in the history of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Bill Mascaro from the NMFTA and Dan Hill with ABF Freight System, Inc. explore implications of the Surface Transportation Board’s removal of anti-trust immunity from the rate setting bureaus and what this may mean for domestic and international shippers. The session will also include the process of how minimum packaging requirements are developed, reviewed and adopted.
ISTA is looking to leverage emerging trends such as Big Data through a recent initiative to enhance the interaction with existing protocols as well as build a foundation for the development of new tools that will help ensure packaged-products are designed to survive the ever changing supply chain. This presentation will discuss some of the early work done towards this initiative and seek input from the membership on the future vision of such a tool.
The first part of the presentation will overview ISTA 7E and Standard 20's point of view from a laboratory standpoint. Part II of the presentation will be a case history of one lab's experience, it will cover some of the specific details and nuances encountered during the process of becoming 7E certified. Such instances include procedures that needed to be modified or implemented, employee training, and customer awareness of what the standard requires. This will also cover some of the requirements of Standard 20 that overlap with ISO 17025. Finally, the majority of the presentation will be about putting a thermal package through the paces and the glitches you may run into during your first test.
During the design of unit loads, it is a common practice to use a component based design methodology rather than using the interaction between the elements of the unit load to reduce the overall spend. In the last ten years, the stiffness of pallets continuously decreased due to cost saving initiatives. However, the effect of the reduced pallet stiffness was not considered during the design of corrugated packages carried by the pallet.
During the design of unit loads, it is a common practice to use a component based design methodology rather than using the interaction between the elements of the unit load to reduce the overall spend. In the last ten years, the stiffness of pallets continuously decreased due to cost saving initiatives. However, the effect of the reduced pallet stiffness was not considered during the design of corrugated packages carried by the pallet.
"During the design of pallets, it is a common practice to assume that the load is continuously distributed on the top of the pallet. However, in reality packages on the top of the pallet experience different levels of bridging depending on their physical characteristics. This bridging phenomena significantly increases the load carrying capacity of the pallet and it is unaccounted for in current design methodologies leading to overdesign and reduced sustainability. The presentation will cover the results of the latest research on load bridging within the unit load focusing on how the size of corrugated boxes, stiffness of corrugated board and number of layers in a unit load influences the load carrying capacity of the pallets with different stiffness characteristics. 
Takeaways: - Increasing the size of corrugated boxes significantly increases load bridging. 
- Increasing the stiffness of corrugated board significantly increases load bridging. 
- Using more layers in a unit load increases load bridging. 
- The load bridging phenomena has different effect on pallets with different stiffness characteristics.
- Efficient and sustainable pallet design methodology needs to incorporate the effect of packaging and unit load stabilizers."
When companies have consistent product failures in distribution, they may attempt to use traditional damage boundary testing to define bare product fragility, or perhaps increase free fall drop heights on packaged products, believing that higher drops must have caused the problem since the initial laboratory qualification levels appear to have been inadequate. This presentation will show why these traditional approaches failed and how the issue was resolved. Takeaways: Damage boundary testing works, but not always as expected. Increasing drop heights often finds the weakest link of a product design, but not always. This presentation will show how one product needed a different approach due to its unique characteristics. The audience will gain valuable insights as to the importance of replicating field failures in the lab, and how one must remain open minded on ways to achieve that damage. The results are different than anything I recall seeing at any previous conference.
When companies have consistent product failures in distribution, they may attempt to use traditional damage boundary testing to define bare product fragility, or perhaps increase free fall drop heights on packaged products, believing that higher drops must have caused the problem since the initial laboratory qualification levels appear to have been inadequate. This presentation will show why these traditional approaches failed and how the issue was resolved. Takeaways: Damage boundary testing works, but not always as expected. Increasing drop heights often finds the weakest link of a product design, but not always. This presentation will show how one product needed a different approach due to its unique characteristics. The audience will gain valuable insights as to the importance of replicating field failures in the lab, and how one must remain open minded on ways to achieve that damage. The results are different than anything I recall seeing at any previous conference.
Hewlett-Packard DeskJets were initially packed in expensive polyethylene cushions. This presentation will discuss how HP successfully replaced resilient foam with inexpensive molded pulp for most of it’s inkjet printers. The pros and cons of using molded pulp will be discussed.
 Hewlett-Packard DeskJets were initially packed in expensive olyethylene cushions. This presentation will discuss how HP successfully replaced resilient foam with inexpensive molded pulp for most of it’s inkjet printers. The pros and cons of using molded pulp will be discussed.
Most products travel in corrugated boxes. Most companies specify corrugated boxes using drawings with dimensions and material specifications. The dimensions are usually shown on a blank (an open box), while material specifications will focus on flute size, paper weight, Mullen burst value and/or edge crush value. This presentation will discuss the shortcomings of these standard approaches and recommend alternatives that have resulted in significant savings and more consistent quality, especially for companies that need to purchase boxes in countries outside the US.
Most products travel in corrugated boxes. Most companies specify corrugated boxes using drawings with dimensions and material specifications. The dimensions are usually shown on a blank (an open box), while material specifications will focus on flute size, paper weight, Mullen burst value and/or edge crush value. This presentation will discuss the shortcomings of these standard approaches and recommend alternatives that have resulted in significant savings and more consistent quality, especially for companies that need to purchase boxes in countries outside the US.
 Many companies could benefit from understanding their distribution systems better. Case studies will show how re-thinking design and laboratory testing can result in dramatic cost reductions.
 Many companies could benefit from understanding their distribution systems better. Case studies will show how re-thinking design and laboratory testing can result in dramatic cost reductions.
Many companies use standard test levels suggested by organizations like ISTA, ASTM, JIS, and others, but can these standard tests be right for all products being shipped to all places? This case study will focus on Agilent Technology products made in the US and shipped to China. Photographs and videos taken over a 2 week visit through China in 2011 clearly indicated that test levels and orientations needed to be adjusted to better reflect the common hazards found in this particular supply chain. This study is similar to Kevin’s presentation in 2005 on the distribution system in India, with surprising insights as to how products are commonly handled in one of the fastest growing markets in the world.
Many companies use standard test levels suggested by organizations like ISTA, ASTM, JIS, and others, but can these standard tests be right for all products being shipped to all places? This case study will focus on Agilent Technology products made in the US and shipped to China. Photographs and videos taken over a 2 week visit through China in 2011 clearly indicated that test levels and orientations needed to be adjusted to better reflect the common hazards found in this particular supply chain. This study is similar to Kevin’s presentation in 2005 on the distribution system in India, with surprising insights as to how products are commonly handled in one of the fastest growing markets in the world.
This presentation will focus on a number of examples where direct field observations were the key to understanding field damage issues. On multiple occasions the author has found the most significant problems in the field have not been reported by those closest to the situation. Though field measurements are important to better understand physical hazards to packaged products, many of the hazards causing expensive problems to corporations are not capable of being measured with typical data recorders. This presentation will demonstrate the importance of personally observing the distribution system to understand the most consistent types of failures, why and where they occur, and then to consider the range of options that may resolve the issues.
This presentation will focus on a number of examples where direct field observations were the key to understanding field damage issues. On multiple occasions the author has found the most significant problems in the field have not been reported by those closest to the situation. Though field measurements are important to better understand physical hazards to packaged products, many of the hazards causing expensive problems to corporations are not capable of being measured with typical data recorders. This presentation will demonstrate the importance of personally observing the distribution system to understand the most consistent types of failures, why and where they occur, and then to consider the range of options that may resolve the issues.
 This presentation will cover the development of a worldwide densified transport media that meets the Joint Electron Devices Engineering Council specifications has decreased environmental impact, and allowed improvement to logistics costs and enhancements to customer logistic constraints. The new form-factor thermoformed JEDEC tray achieves this impact through a telescoping side wall that enables manufacturing media handling improvements and protects at an acceptable product shipping defect level. This opportunity for environmental stewardship has been achieved by a thorough understanding of our customer requirements, as well as the contributions of cross divisional teams working together to assess and optimize equipment and media interactions.
 This presentation will cover the development of a worldwide densified transport media that meets the Joint Electron Devices Engineering Council specifications has decreased environmental impact, and allowed improvement to logistics costs and enhancements to customer logistic constraints. The new form-factor thermoformed JEDEC tray achieves this impact through a telescoping side wall that enables manufacturing media handling improvements and protects at an acceptable product shipping defect level. This opportunity for environmental stewardship has been achieved by a thorough understanding of our customer requirements, as well as the contributions of cross divisional teams working together to assess and optimize equipment and media interactions.
This presentation discusses the successful utilization of shock and vibration recorders to collect transportation data. The projects covered were all focused on solving product damage issues that were occurring during shipping by either truck or rail. Transportation data was utilized in the laboratory or solely for evaluation of the transportation hazards. The industries covered are consumer beverage, bottle industry, and construction materials.
This presentation discusses the successful utilization of shock and vibration recorders to collect transportation data. The projects covered were all focused on solving product damage issues that were occurring during shipping by either truck or rail. Transportation data was utilized in the laboratory or solely for evaluation of the transportation hazards. The industries covered are consumer beverage, bottle industry, and construction materials.
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In the late summer of 2001, ISTA undertook a research project to monitor temperatures and relative humidity in an in-service, interstate Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) environment
This document lists and details established and newer methodologies for vibration testing packaged
products for road distribution. It is intended to provide information on the range of methods
available. This information will be of interest to those who wish to review their specification and
selection of vibration test methods, and to those who wish to have a better understanding of the
methods available.
ISTA Lane Data represents the most comprehensive thermal information about small parcel shipping. This large data set can be used to create real world "what if" simulations of the performance of thermal packaging with real instances.
Many considerations go into designing effective packages. Sustainability is increasingly one of these considerations. Primary packages invariably get most of the attention when sustainability discussions arise. For greater impact, a total packaging systems approach should be considered. This additionally incorporates properly optimized secondary and tertiary packages, which are often overlooked. In this workshop we will explore Life Cycle Assessment or LCA and how it can help you design more sustainable transport packages. Taking this systems approach makes this analysis very easy to perform and understand, enabling better decisions early in the design cycle.
This presentation will provide an overview of ongoing efforts within ASTM Subcommittee D10.21 to update the random vibration profiles in D4169. The presentation will cover the methodology and rationale for proposing changes to the random vibration profile for truck transportation, as well as providing the status of the subcommittee ballot action and industry comparison testing.
 Vehicle vibration input is generated from complex motions that are directly related to road roughness. That motion can be described in terms of “degrees of freedom.” In nature there are six degrees of freedom; three translational and three rotational. Uneven road surfaces cause multiple, uneven inputs to the vehicle suspension and the resulting motion (response) of cargo bed is correspondingly complex. This presentation will highlight studies where measurements (with instrumentation) and recordings (with video equipment) were made of both the vehicle suspension input dynamics, and the responses of cargo that was being transported in the bed of a truck. The presentation will also highlight subsequent testing that was performed on a multi degree of freedom vibration test system, using both single and multi-axis control inputs. Comparisons of the test items’ responses to both single and multi-axis inputs will be shown and discussed.
This presentation will highlight dynamic measurement highlights made during a large study of intermodal shipments, made between the eastern and western United States. This study focused comparative measurements made at the container floor, bottom pallet and top pallet locations. The results provided the ability to understand how unit loads responded to the various transport dynamic inputs.
A major brand owner was receiving feedback from their distribution facilities of abnormally high amounts of “dumped” loads upon arrival from their production facility. Dumped loads meant unit loads that completely tipped over during transport. This presentation will highlight some of the interesting investigative work that was initiated to determine whether abnormal dynamics were occurring during transport between the production facility and two specific distributors.
This presentation details a simple, long-standing methodology for optimizing the design of the product and package system. By simultaneously exploiting opportunities to improve product robustness, while reducing the demands of the distribution system, requirements for protective packaging performance can be minimized. This presentation will emphasizes the opportunity and value of addressing all design requirements towards the beginning of the product development phase, which can minimize the amount of materials entering the waste stream.
Returnable packaging market in Asia is still promising. Focusing on the current market and R&D efforts on returnable packaging systems in Northeast Asian countries such as China, Japan and Korea, this presentation will discuss the international standardization activities by ISO, market trends, research development and some bold movement by global leading companies.
Returnable packaging market in Asia is still promising. Focusing on the current market and R&D efforts on returnable packaging systems in Northeast Asian countries such as China, Japan and Korea, this presentation will discuss the international standardization activities by ISO, market trends, research development and some bold movement by global leading companies.
Cultural properties move globally because they are regularly loaned between museums. Although packaging methods still rely mostly on "experience," Tokyo National Museum has been trying to adopt a more scientific approach. This presentation introduces field measurement projects jointly done by Tokyo National Museum and eXcearch LLC. Interesting facts were discovered from air shipments.
Cultural properties move globally because they are regularly loaned between museums. Although packaging methods still rely mostly on "experience," Tokyo National Museum has been trying to adopt a more scientific approach. This presentation introduces field measurement projects jointly done by Tokyo National Museum and eXcearch LLC. Interesting facts were discovered from air shipments.
Effective September 2010, ISTA Project 3J has been superseded by ISTA Project 6-SAMSCLUB, with even more focus on the unique aspects of the Sam's Club distribution environment. This presentation will explain reasons for the change in Series assignment and designation, and will describe some of the new test parameters and conditions. Then Sam's Club case studies will be discussed, illustrating how application of the protocol has resulted in packaging performance and quality improvements, damage reduction, increased efficiency, and improving the Member experience.
Effective September 2010, ISTA Project 3J has been superseded by ISTA Project 6-SAMSCLUB, with even more focus on the unique aspects of the Sam's Club distribution environment. This presentation will explain reasons for the change in Series assignment and designation, and will describe some of the new test parameters and conditions. Then Sam's Club case studies will be discussed, illustrating how application of the protocol has resulted in packaging performance and quality improvements, damage reduction, increased efficiency, and improving the Member experience.
The intent of this paper is to share some research that was conducted which builds on the McKee formula by taking into consideration the height of the package. Compression testing was carried out for several groups of corrugated boxes, which have the same bearing area with different heights. Together with the stacking strength, different failure modes of the tested corrugated boxes were evaluated. Finally, this study investigated at what point the height of package would be a liability when it comes to compression strength. The findings from this study help packaging engineers in understanding the relationship between box area and height for a defined corrugated material type.
The intent of this paper is to share some research that was conducted which builds on the McKee formula by taking into consideration the height of the package. Compression testing was carried out for several groups of corrugated boxes, which have the same bearing area with different heights. Together with the stacking strength, different failure modes of the tested corrugated boxes were evaluated. Finally, this study investigated at what point the height of package would be a liability when it comes to compression strength. The findings from this study help packaging engineers in understanding the relationship between box area and height for a defined corrugated material type.
Discover innovative ways to reduce breakage, damage and loss through packaging design, materials, load containment, testing and monitoring, and more.
Discover innovative ways to reduce breakage, damage and loss through packaging design, materials, load containment, testing and monitoring, and more.
Cold chain, or temperature-controlled supply chain, has been one of the hottest topics in logistics industry due to increased consumer's demand on fresh, safe and secured fresh product delivery. This presentation will introduce global trends of cold chain packaging market and technology, a road-map for standardization, technology & service innovation, latest standardization activities in ISO Technical Committee 122 (Packaging) Working Group 16 on temperature-controlled product packaging, and a couple of on-going research projects: super-chilled product packaging and bio-medicine delivery in South East Asia.
Maintaining product integrity for temperature sensitive products such as fresh foods and drugs is the prime goal for distributors and logistics providers, and standardization is a crucial element. Without any doubt, standards such as terminology, dimensions, performance requirements, and testing methods enable a company’s temperature controlled supply chain integration better, and maybe the first step for efficient and seamless operations.  This presentation will discuss a set of international standards being developed in ISO/TC122 (Packaging).
 KATS, Korea Agency for Technology and Standards, has developed a standard-based R&D roadmap for smart logistics in order to help industries deal with increasingly competitive environment globally. The main benefit of this study is that it provides information to make better R&D investment decisions by identifying critical technologies and technology gaps and finding ways to leverage R&D investments. While most technology roadmaps for logistics have been used by many companies and industries, the focus has been a product, neither on a service nor a standard. The roadmap categorizes three major areas: intelligent logistics, sustainable logistics and safe and secured logistics. Development of the roadmap includes: (1) define the scope and boundaries for the technology roadmap. (2) Identify the product, service and standard that will be the focus of the roadmap. (3) Specify the major technology areas. (4) Define each technology and their time lines. (5) Recommend the product, service and standard alternatives that should be pursued. (6) Develop an implementation plan for next 10 years. Takeaways: This roadmap focuses on logistics technologies, services, and standards that require effective R&D and standardization planning, and may be utilized as an effective tool for coordinating future logistics R&D, service and standardization activities.
 Vibration has long been a part of laboratory tests for packaged-products. Starting with circular-synchronous motion, then progressing to sinusoidal resonance-search-and-dwell tests, and now with today’s PSD-based random vibration, tremendous progress has been made in the simulation of actual distribution vibrations and the quality of test results. In recent years, however, it has become recognized that the PSD approach can omit, or “average out”, infrequently-occurring but nonetheless significant and potentially damaging events. A number of proposals have been made and test approaches undertaken to address this issue, including high/low spectra, control of kurtosis, synthesis of non-stationary random, use of non-Gaussian vibrations, and shock-on-random. This paper will describe the issue and summarize the various suggested approaches in simple terms. Recommendations regarding further research and possible industry consensus will be made.
 Vibration has long been a part of laboratory tests for packaged-products. Starting with circular-synchronous motion, then progressing to sinusoidal resonance-search-and-dwell tests, and now with today’s PSD-based random vibration, tremendous progress has been made in the simulation of actual distribution vibrations and the quality of test results. In recent years, however, it has become recognized that the PSD approach can omit, or “average out”, infrequently-occurring but nonetheless significant and potentially damaging events. A number of proposals have been made and test approaches undertaken to address this issue, including high/low spectra, control of kurtosis, synthesis of non-stationary random, use of non-Gaussian vibrations, and shock-on-random. This paper will describe the issue and summarize the various suggested approaches in simple terms. Recommendations regarding further research and possible industry consensus will be made.
Polyethylene is a fully recyclable thermoplastic, meaning that virtually all types of polyethylene, even blends of various types of polyethylene, can be (safely and responsibly) reheated and fashioned into RENEWED-LIFE useful "re-created" value-added consumer products.
Most packages need to be evaluated to determine whether they can be safely stacked during warehousing and transport. This presentation will discuss methods of collecting test data and analyzing the results to produce better and faster predictions of package stacking performance.
This presentation will discuss techniques for combining finite element analysis and experimental measurements to improve the design of unit loads. These methods are particularly relevant in light of the continuing trend toward the use of caseless secondary packaging to support cost saving and sustainability initiatives.
This presentation will discuss techniques for combining finite element analysis and experimental measurements to improve the design of unit loads. These methods are particularly relevant in light of the continuing trend toward the use of caseless secondary packaging to support cost saving and sustainability initiatives.
 Advancements in finite element analysis techniques are making it possible to perform computer simulations of standard industry unit load tests. Progress in developing these “virtual” test methods will be discussed along with several examples. These methods allow transportation and warehouse stacking performance of unitized loads to be studied earlier in the package development process, before physical samples are available, with commensurate reductions in risk, cost, and speed to market.
The way that payload contents are monitored can have a drastic effect on the recorded performance of a shipper.  Proper thermocouple and data logger placement during the DQ, OQ, and PQ stages can help increase the confidence and reliability of a temperature controlled shipping system.
Organizations tend to initially develop as people driven functions. Eventually, the reliance on people causes issues related to time and skill limitations, which can be overcome by transitioning to being process driven. The transition to being process driven in functions responsible for Distribution Qualifications is especially important because of the importance of user safety, and the need to meet launch deadlines.
While it is common for freight to be stacked during transit in the less-than-truckload distribution environment, little is known of the distribution of size, weight and density of the potential top loads. These characteristics of top loaded freight are important to understand when designing the ‘Just Right’ package or performing a pre-shipment package test. This study will provide detailed information about top loading conditions that can be used to improve package design.
Collecting field shock data and converting it into useful information can be challenging. As a result, we have investigated alternate methods to convert shock data from the field to representative laboratory tests. Our first and second generation devices and analysis methods will be explained along with their advantages and limitations.
Collecting field shock data and converting it into useful information can be challenging. As a result, we have investigated alternate methods to convert shock data from the field to representative laboratory tests. Our first and second generation devices and analysis methods will be explained along with their advantages and limitations.
Shipping damage in LTL transportation can often be greatly reduced with a few simple packaging changes. Understanding common equipment and handling practices is very important to ensure damage free shipments using pallets, boxes, crates, strapping, and wrapping. This presentation will highlight some tips for good LTL packaging designs and methods along with the underlying conditions that drive them.
Shipping damage in LTL transportation can often be greatly reduced with a few simple packaging changes. Understanding common equipment and handling practices is very important to ensure damage free shipments using pallets, boxes, crates, strapping, and wrapping. This presentation will highlight some tips for good LTL packaging designs and methods along with the underlying conditions that drive them.
While it is common for freight to be stacked during transit in the less-than-truckload distribution environment, little is known of the distribution of size, weight and density of the potential top loads. These characteristics of top loaded freight are important to understand when designing the ‘Just Right’ package or performing a pre-shipment package test. This study will provide detailed information about top loading conditions that can be used to improve package design.
Results from a one year study of ocean container temperature and humidity conditions for shipments between Asia, Europe and North America. Highlights include port, sea, rail transport and storage conditions, as well as a number of unexpected conditions.
Description: Results from a one year study of ocean container temperature and humidity conditions for shipments between Asia, Europe and North America. Highlights include port, sea, rail transport and storage conditions, as well as a number of unexpected conditions.
Determining the optimal packaging system for a large, heavy, and high-value product category: Our client desired packaging design standardization and cost reduction within manufacturing and improved stackability in distribution.
Determining the optimal packaging system for a large, heavy, and high-value product category: Our client desired packaging design standardization and cost reduction within manufacturing and improved stackability in distribution.
This presentation will discuss the size and impact of e-commerce over the next 5 years, and will deliver insights and direction on the following:
  • Implications for brands and retailers by end use sector.
  • Packaging winners – where will e-commerce create the biggest opportunities?
  • Packaging losers – which segments of the packaging industry are most at threat?
  • Preparing for your e-commerce future.
This presentation compares the initial deflections of a package with different acceptable interpretations of the UN stacking recommendation for the transport of dangerous goods. Analysis using digital imagine correlation and a pressure mat was used show the differences of guided and unguided stacking test as it pertains to the UN recommendation. Study on the positional tolerance of the placement of a package while using unguided compression was also preformed.
This presentation compares the initial deflections of a package with different acceptable interpretations of the UN stacking recommendation for the transport of dangerous goods. Analysis using digital imagine correlation and a pressure mat was used show the differences of guided and unguided stacking test as it pertains to the UN recommendation. Study on the positional tolerance of the placement of a package while using unguided compression was also preformed.
Understanding how E-Commerce is influencing and effecting packaging decisions for medium to larger goods, along with some approaches to help understand and resolve damage issues.
The presentation will show you 10 successful case studies from Ericsson.
Information will concentrate on developing best practices for Cold Chain packaging in association with the Food Industry. Outlining process and procedures in evaluating the effectiveness of their cold chain packaging will help manage cost. This will help develop and promote the use of sustainable materials in the Cold Chain network.
Eli Lilly and Company uses active shipping containers to transport products between locations across the globe. Active containers are used to transport products whose temperature must be maintained in a specific temperature range. This presentation documents an analysis of a method for determining the rate the active container battery de-charges as a function of the average ambient temperature profile. This analysis method has been incorporated into a tool that can be used to evaluate shipping lanes for suitability for using these active containers.
From the shipper’s perspective, Modeling and Simulation have the potential to offer substantial benefits when used appropriately. A brief overview of thermal modeling and a few of the tradeoffs are reviewed in this presentation.
Producing new package formats for delivery to retailers is a common challenge for consumer packaged goods (CPG) packaging teams. New package formats may promise improved sales, but they can also lead to increased distribution packaging costs. Here’s how one company struck a balance between the two.
Producing new package formats for delivery to retailers is a common challenge for consumer packaged goods (CPG) packaging teams. New package formats may promise improved sales, but they can also lead to increased distribution packaging costs. Here’s how one company struck a balance between the two.
Pursuing innovation is at the forefront for many organizations these days. Recent industry news items include organizational changes to better achieve innovation goals. But, with the feelings of discomfort, angst, and even fear many organizations experience with these changes, do we have to get this change right the first time?
Pursuing innovation is at the forefront for many organizations these days. Recent industry news items include organizational changes to better achieve innovation goals. But, with the feelings of discomfort, angst, and even fear many organizations experience with these changes, do we have to get this change right the first time?
Innovation efforts are going on everywhere. Organizations are scrambling to innovate for e-commerce and other changes in the CPG consumer space. But, much of what is required from new consumers today, is new to many legacy businesses with tried-and-true processes and methodologies. What happens when you’re trying to change, but your efforts just seem to be creating confusion? Anybody feel lost yet?
Innovation efforts are going on everywhere. Organizations are scrambling to innovate for e-commerce and other changes in the CPG consumer space. But, much of what is required from new consumers today, is new to many legacy businesses with tried-and-true processes and methodologies. What happens when you’re trying to change, but your efforts just seem to be creating confusion? Anybody feel lost yet?
Gaining alignment on “why” is a critical, but often neglected step in any project, management, or problem solving process. Your team needs to know that they can have the time, resources, and support it takes to fully align on the “why” question!
Gaining alignment on “why” is a critical, but often neglected step in any project, management, or problem solving process. Your team needs to know that they can have the time, resources, and support it takes to fully align on the “why” question!
n today's incredibly fast-paced world, both industry and personal society seem to be full of transition. In other words, the one constant these days is - CHANGE! But, sometimes, wouldn't you just like to know that things are going to settle down at some point? Don't you wish you could just know, "WHEN WE WILL GET THERE?"

This presentation will address the world of transition, and why leadership in transition is crucial. But, transitional leadership doesn't just come from the top, or from above, or from a "boss." Transitional leadership takes the whole team. Let's talk about how YOU have a role in leadership, especially during a transitional phase. After all, if change is constant, then transition is a condition we need to learn to embrace!
n today's incredibly fast-paced world, both industry and personal society seem to be full of transition. In other words, the one constant these days is - CHANGE! But, sometimes, wouldn't you just like to know that things are going to settle down at some point? Don't you wish you could just know, "WHEN WE WILL GET THERE?"

This presentation will address the world of transition, and why leadership in transition is crucial. But, transitional leadership doesn't just come from the top, or from above, or from a "boss." Transitional leadership takes the whole team. Let's talk about how YOU have a role in leadership, especially during a transitional phase. After all, if change is constant, then transition is a condition we need to learn to embrace!
Stretch wrap is an essential packaging material for assuring the stability of most palletized goods. But applying just the right amount of stretch wrap with the right parameters of tension, pre-stretch, etc., is not straightforward nor easy. The use of laboratory transport simulation testing can help to define which is the most optimal stretch wrap film configuration for a given palletized load. The presentation will show, through a business case, how optimization of stretch wrap can be achieved, along with the associated cost reduction.
While Mabe successfully utilizes a Computer Aided Engineering based design process for product development, they have extended these methods to improve the packaging design and optimize the product-packaging system. The objectives of this project were to use computer modeling to simulate the effect of distribution environment events to the product-packaging system at early stages of the product design development and perform optimization to improve product protection.
While Mabe successfully utilizes a Computer Aided Engineering based design process for product development, they have extended these methods to improve the packaging design and optimize the product-packaging system. The objectives of this project were to use computer modeling to simulate the effect of distribution environment events to the product-packaging system at early stages of the product design development and perform optimization to improve product protection.
As Packaging Engineers, we understand why various new packaging solutions are important to the success of business. However, presenting aspirations for innovation and continuous improvements are sometimes lost in a weak approach and less than effective communications. We will describe various initiatives and the aligned hot buttons that matter to the business leaders.
A laboratory mechanical durability test that can properly assess the suitability of a reusable parcel thermal packaging system over repeated uses through the distribution chain currently does not exist. Pelican BioThermal has undertaken a three-phase approach to try and develop such a test method for our internal use. The scope is contained to reusable thermal packaging systems that are 150 Lbs. or less and designed to be utilized within the parcel delivery system. Phase I of the project involves setting requirements, creation of the transit route map and research on average mechanical test intensities. Phase II of the project involves creation of a hazard map and its translation into a draft test procedure (including proposed intensities for the various sequences). Phase III of the project involves validation of the test procedure and intensities. To date phase I and phase II have been completed while plans to complete phase III are underway. Therefore, plans on how phase III will be completed will be discussed and any results at the time of the presentation can be shown. Further areas of development/improvement and next steps will also be discussed. A challenge that will be addressed throughout the development of the method is how to expose the systems to more of an "average" trip multiple times versus an "intense" trip once as many current standards do today.
A laboratory mechanical durability test that can properly assess the suitability of a reusable parcel thermal packaging system over repeated uses through the distribution chain currently does not exist. Pelican BioThermal has undertaken a three-phase approach to try and develop such a test method for our internal use. The scope is contained to reusable thermal packaging systems that are 150 Lbs. or less and designed to be utilized within the parcel delivery system. Phase I of the project involves setting requirements, creation of the transit route map and research on average mechanical test intensities. Phase II of the project involves creation of a hazard map and its translation into a draft test procedure (including proposed intensities for the various sequences). Phase III of the project involves validation of the test procedure and intensities. To date phase I and phase II have been completed while plans to complete phase III are underway. Therefore, plans on how phase III will be completed will be discussed and any results at the time of the presentation can be shown. Further areas of development/improvement and next steps will also be discussed. A challenge that will be addressed throughout the development of the method is how to expose the systems to more of an "average" trip multiple times versus an "intense" trip once as many current standards do today.
Ambient shipping temperature profiles are essential for identifying the temperatures that packages experience during transportation. A proper ambient temperature profile is more nuanced than a climatic representation because packages experience lane-specific conditions that provide shielding from extreme temperatures (e.g. warehousing) or greater challenges (e.g. direct sunlight, airplane engines). To develop a representative ambient temperature profile, one needs to first identify the need that is being filled and the potential opportunities from the profile. Following definition of the need, understand how to build and identify a dataset robust enough to create a representative profile. If such a dataset is lacking, alternative methods of evaluating the ambient temperature environment may be available. I will share Merck's experiences developing ambient shipping temperature profiles from the principles above, as well as our experiences (both successes and learnings) from such profiles in the qualification of thermal shippers and real-world shipping.
Ambient shipping temperature profiles are essential for identifying the temperatures that packages experience during transportation. A proper ambient temperature profile is more nuanced than a climatic representation because packages experience lane-specific conditions that provide shielding from extreme temperatures (e.g. warehousing) or greater challenges (e.g. direct sunlight, airplane engines). To develop a representative ambient temperature profile, one needs to first identify the need that is being filled and the potential opportunities from the profile. Following definition of the need, understand how to build and identify a dataset robust enough to create a representative profile. If such a dataset is lacking, alternative methods of evaluating the ambient temperature environment may be available. I will share Merck's experiences developing ambient shipping temperature profiles from the principles above, as well as our experiences (both successes and learnings) from such profiles in the qualification of thermal shippers and real-world shipping.
See through real examples how the ISTA 3A has assisted shippers in cost savings through a reduction in damages.
See through real examples how the ISTA 3A has assisted shippers in cost savings through a reduction in damages.
Time compressed, pseudo-random vibration profiles, also known as Power Spectral Density (PSD) summaries have been the predominant method of specifying vibration in the packaging industry, whether a company is trying to simulate conditions present in over-the-road trailers, railcars, or even aircraft. These profiles have been in existence for decades and have been an effective tool in helping our industry understand the distribution environment and in the development of efficient packaging solutions. Packaging developers can use a number of various industry standards that are specific to the vehicle type they want to simulate. Those that don’t want to use an industry average can create and use their own. Gathering the field data to create these vibration profiles is a time consuming, expensive and labor-intensive process. There is also a limit to their capabilities and recent sustainable practices have shown that these long-standing methods may not always be the best tool a Packaging Engineer has at their disposal when designing protective solutions. For the packaging industry, current vibration equipment used is entirely dependent on these profiles. The purpose of this research project is to analyze a simulation program that will reproduce the vibrational forces in over-the-road trailers without having to go through the process of recording the real-world vibrations that a vehicle will produce.
Time compressed, pseudo-random vibration profiles, also known as Power Spectral Density (PSD) summaries have been the predominant method of specifying vibration in the packaging industry, whether a company is trying to simulate conditions present in over-the-road trailers, railcars, or even aircraft. These profiles have been in existence for decades and have been an effective tool in helping our industry understand the distribution environment and in the development of efficient packaging solutions. Packaging developers can use a number of various industry standards that are specific to the vehicle type they want to simulate. Those that don’t want to use an industry average can create and use their own. Gathering the field data to create these vibration profiles is a time consuming, expensive and labor-intensive process. There is also a limit to their capabilities and recent sustainable practices have shown that these long-standing methods may not always be the best tool a Packaging Engineer has at their disposal when designing protective solutions. For the packaging industry, current vibration equipment used is entirely dependent on these profiles. The purpose of this research project is to analyze a simulation program that will reproduce the vibrational forces in over-the-road trailers without having to go through the process of recording the real-world vibrations that a vehicle will produce.
Development of thermal testing profiles using data collected from various lanes is a common practice in the pharmaceutical industry. These thermal profiles are used in chamber testing of shipping containers. Currently the available standards emphasize the use of a standard test profile. This presentation argues that we now need to begin to identify standard algorithms for developing test profiles as well. This will allow shippers to develop test profiles form their own sourced data. In particular, this presentation describes the QT(min/max) method for developing thermal profiles and demonstrates how it is superior to several existing methods that are currently in use.
Risk analysis is a key part of Quality by Design (QbD) in the Pharmaceutical and many other industries. Therefore, if QbD is to be applied successfully to the design and use of Insulated Shipping Containers (ISCs) then robust risk analysis is key. There are many places in the design, qualification, and use of ISCs where risks must be identified and mitigated. Much of the risk analysis performed in the pharmaceutical industry is qualitative or at best semi-quantitative. In cold chain applications, however, there are opportunities to apply quantitative risk analysis methodologies. The advantage of this is a better understanding of the risks involved and therefore more effective and efficient risk mitigation strategies.

This presentation describes how a quantitative risk analysis can be applied to the qualification of passive ISCs. In particular it will examine the risk involved in qualifying an ISC using only three replicate tests. The implications of the analysis will be assessed in terms of the latest FDA guidance on process validation and how it might impact ISC qualifications in the future.
This session will cover the main components of the above guidance document, addressing the need for an OQ profile to have adequate overall thermal challenge as well as the appropriate dips and spikes. The FAQs included with the document will be discussed as well as several accompanying documents that will be made available with this guidance.
The approach to defining OQ ambient test profiles for thermal testing of passive shipping containers used at Eli Lilly and Company is reviewed. The use of container performance curves to support the use of these test profiles is discussed. The relationship of defining thermal test curves to defining vibration test curves is presented. Finally a method for defining vibration test curves based on recorded lane vibration data is outlined.
The presentation will provide an inside look at the cooperative education program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. The University will cover some current trends and issues regarding placement, and TEN-E Packaging Services will discuss their history with the UW Stout program and provide an employer’s perspective on the benefits of cooperative education.
The presentation will provide an inside look at the cooperative education program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. The University will cover some current trends and issues regarding placement, and TEN-E Packaging Services will discuss their history with the UW Stout program and provide an employer’s perspective on the benefits of cooperative education.
Shipping of product by sea freight can offer an economical alternative to air shipping, but the extended duration of transit can pose a challenge for temperature-sensitive payloads. While the use of active, temperature-controlled shipping containers can provide protection for temperature-sensitive payloads during ocean transit, there are times during the shipping process in which the container will be disconnected from power. These periods during which the temperature control is powered off can vary in duration, and may result in temperature excursions, negating the cost savings of shipping via ocean freight.
Shipping of product by sea freight can offer an economical alternative to air shipping, but the extended duration of transit can pose a challenge for temperature-sensitive payloads. While the use of active, temperature-controlled shipping containers can provide protection for temperature-sensitive payloads during ocean transit, there are times during the shipping process in which the container will be disconnected from power. These periods during which the temperature control is powered off can vary in duration, and may result in temperature excursions, negating the cost savings of shipping via ocean freight.
In the design of material handling operations, optimal pallet loading configuration is a common concern for maximizing cube utilization and increasing unit load stability, but little is known about the effect of the stacking patterns on the performance of the pallet. The load carrying capacity of a pallet can change depending on the stacking patterns used due to the load redistribution as part of the effect known as load bridging. The presentation will cover the results of the latest research on the interaction between the packages, the pallets, and the material handling equipment focused on the effect of the stacking patterns in the pallet performance and load carrying capacity. During the study, five pallet stacking patterns were investigated using three pallet stiffnesses and four common support conditions.
In the design of material handling operations, optimal pallet loading configuration is a common concern for maximizing cube utilization and increasing unit load stability, but little is known about the effect of the stacking patterns on the performance of the pallet. The load carrying capacity of a pallet can change depending on the stacking patterns used due to the load redistribution as part of the effect known as load bridging. The presentation will cover the results of the latest research on the interaction between the packages, the pallets, and the material handling equipment focused on the effect of the stacking patterns in the pallet performance and load carrying capacity. During the study, five pallet stacking patterns were investigated using three pallet stifnesses and four common support conditions.
The brewing company of  this business case, in its strategic framework as a company, is reducing the CO2 emissions of the products that they manufacture and distribute. In recent years they have been reducing the carbon footprint of their products mainly acting on the impact on the primary and secondary packaging. Currently the reduction of thickness in the primary and secondary packaging has reached its maximum but they still have the necessity to reduce the carbon footprint even more. For this they were wondering if the stretchable film currently used of 23 microns cast film, as tertiary packaging, it could be reduced without affecting the stability of the cargo they transport, since although the reduction of CO2 emissions is an important point in their framework strategic as a company, transport safety is even more important to avoid possible damage to third parties due to a lack of stability of the palletized units they transport. In the project, three of the most manufactured products were chosen, bottles of 1 liter of beer, 1/3 bottles and 33cl cans. They were first subjected to a study of stability obtaining the level of acceleration that currently presents these palletized load by applying horizontal acceleration tests. After this, a new wrapping scheme was defined and a new blown film material from DUOPLAST of 15 microns DDK was used, with the aim of obtaining the same level of horizontal acceleration with respect to the initial tests. After the optimization and the final acceleration tests, it was possible to reduce the average film consumption per pallet by 37.5%, approximately 103 grams on average per pallet wrapped. Likewise, it was possible to increase the wrapping capacity / production of up to 28% more than average wrapping capacity currently. With regard to the reduction of the carbon footprint, savings of 33% of total CO2 emissions were achieved on average per pallet wrapped, which for a production volume of 1,800,000 pallets per year, the total savings due to the use the new DUOPLAST film and the methodology / technology of tests applied to the study, would be of 337 tons of annual CO2 emissions savings.
FEA (numeric) modeling and analysis tools are steadily being integrated into common CAD and Design suites, many of which are already in use in many operations and some available at little or no cost to small businesses and educators. This trend, combined with the plummeting cost of small, accurate bolometric infrared imaging devices for broad-field non-contact temperature measurement, provides the possibility of cost-effective, proactive thermal simulation modeling and verification with modest cost and minimal training, particularly for those already conversant with CAD design tools. This combination provides the promise of innovative and efficient use of space and materials, efficient implementation of non-standard geometries, and development of other design refinements that may provide cost savings and efficiency improvements, as well as greater safety factors for the product.
Recently, efforts have been made to update the random vibration profiles located in ASTM D4169. Highlighted will be the changes being proposed to the ASTM standard. The presentation will provide laboratory test results for various packaged products evaluated under the current and proposed ASTM D4169 Truck profiles as well as the ISTA Steel Spring Truck profile. Takeaways: Results of packaged products evaluated under different vibration techniques; Correlation of proposed and current industry test methods to field studies; Overview and highlights from proposed ASTM truck profiles.
Recently, efforts have been made to update the random vibration profiles located in ASTM D4169. Highlighted will be the changes being proposed to the ASTM standard. The presentation will provide laboratory test results for various packaged products evaluated under the current and proposed ASTM D4169 Truck profiles as well as the ISTA Steel Spring Truck profile. Takeaways: Results of packaged products evaluated under different vibration techniques; Correlation of proposed and current industry test methods to field studies; Overview and highlights from proposed ASTM truck profiles.
Are you tasked with finding GREEN designs for your company’s packaging? Need some ideas to get you started? Green is great, but how do you make it come alive as a packaging engineer? Building from a paper presented in 2010, an experienced packaging engineer from the electronics industry shares lessons learned on the road to sustainability. A case study switching from truck to intermodal transport for inbound electronic cabinets is presented. Additional sustainable package design ideas using air bags and molded bamboo will also be presented.
Are you tasked with finding GREEN designs for your company’s packaging? Need some ideas to get you started? Green is great, but how do you make it come alive as a packaging engineer? Building from a paper presented in 2010, an experienced packaging engineer from the electronics industry shares lessons learned on the road to sustainability. A case study switching from truck to intermodal transport for inbound electronic cabinets is presented. Additional sustainable package design ideas using air bags and molded bamboo will also be presented.
Are you tasked with finding GREEN designs for your company’s packaging? Need some ideas to get you started? Green is great, but how do you make it come alive as a packaging engineer? Hop on board for a tour through some sustainable package design ideas and case studies ranging from suspension packs for circuit card assemblies, air bags, collapsible and reusable large cabinet packs, to disk drive packaging, and opportunities from the inbound supply chain. Practical lessons learned using a variety of materials and design approaches are shared by an experienced packaging engineer from the electronics industry.
Are you tasked with finding GREEN designs for your company’s packaging? Need some ideas to get you started? Green is great, but how do you make it come alive as a packaging engineer? Hop on board for a tour through some sustainable package design ideas and case studies ranging from suspension packs for circuit card assemblies, air bags, collapsible and reusable large cabinet packs, to disk drive packaging, and opportunities from the inbound supply chain. Practical lessons learned using a variety of materials and design approaches are shared by an experienced packaging engineer from the electronics industry.
Corrugated container bulging impacts the packaging industry by affecting pallet load destabilization, compromising container strength, and vibration damage. Bulging changes the geometric shape of the container, causing the palletized load to take up more space than anticipated. This causes the stretch wrap to contact other surfaces during transit which leads to tears and further unit load destabilization. The purpose of this study is to identify a relationship between bulging and container design elements such as styles, dimensions and material. The findings of this study will assist packaging engineers to reduce material usage, maximize container stacking strength and rigidity. The study is intended to showcase the significance of quantifying container bulge towards developing optimum distribution packages.
This presentation will explain a methodology of using established company infrastructure to equip KT systems with electronic data recorders, monitor or measure the shipment, and return the devices to the factory for reuse – all in a closed loop tracked process. It will cover how it the process starts at the design engineering NPI (new product introduction) and continues through beta and production shipments.
This presentation will explain a methodology of using established company infrastructure to equip KT systems with electronic data recorders, monitor or measure the shipment, and return the devices to the factory for reuse – all in a closed loop tracked process. It will cover how it the process starts at the design engineering NPI (new product introduction) and continues through beta and production shipments.
Before Testing / Requirements Development - Distribution 'surveillance' to understand handling practices vs. testing protocol - Building a curve with PSI vs. hydraulic pressure to validate forces used for testing - Monitoring of packaging process at factory and shipping / handling prior to lab During Testing / Innovations for Insights - Seeing inside the box during testing using go-pro cameras - Using wireless detector to assess when damage occurred - Force measuring systems for real time strain on materials After Testing / Package & Product Engineering - If FAILED: Product engineering solution vs. package vs. combination - If PASSED: How to de-spec the package and/or product to reduce cost 
Set minimum packaging test standards for shipments with the goal of reduced damages based on a review of actual distribution hazards vs. current/proposed test scope.
Set minimum packaging test standards for shipments with the goal of reduced damages based on a review of actual distribution hazards vs. current/proposed test scope.
This paper discusses the stability analysis of a product while it is being handled by a forklift or pallet jack. The stability criterion is defined as the product not tipping over during relocation. There are several parameters affecting the stability of the product including its weight, width, depth and location of the center of gravity. When the product is handled by a forklift or pallet jack it is bolted onto a pallet. In this situation, the pallet width, height, bottom deck strength and friction coefficient between the forklift fork and the pallet influence the stability. Additionally, the forklift’s speed, turning radius, and deceleration all affect the stability of the product. Finite element modeling is an analytical method that can be used to evaluate the dynamic stability of a product during manual or mechanical handling. Specifically, an explicit finite element model will be solved which allows for the highly nonlinear transient dynamics that are found in complex, real world problems. This analysis method will allow the observation of the initial product dynamics, the fracture of the pallet bottom deck and then the subsequent tip-over interactions of all the bodies. This explicit method will allow the consideration of all the previously stated variables in a dynamic simulation, not possible with simple static, implicit models. The objective of the finite element modeling is to evaluate all the parameters and to provide guidelines on the maximum speed.
This paper discusses the stability analysis of a product while it is being handled by a forklift or pallet jack. The stability criterion is defined as the product not tipping over during relocation. There are several parameters affecting the stability of the product including its weight, width, depth and location of the center of gravity. When the product is handled by a forklift or pallet jack it is bolted onto a pallet. In this situation, the pallet width, height, bottom deck strength and friction coefficient between the forklift fork and the pallet influence the stability. Additionally, the forklift’s speed, turning radius, and deceleration all affect the stability of the product. Finite element modeling is an analytical method that can be used to evaluate the dynamic stability of a product during manual or mechanical handling. Specifically, an explicit finite element model will be solved which allows for the highly nonlinear transient dynamics that are found in complex, real world problems. This analysis method will allow the observation of the initial product dynamics, the fracture of the pallet bottom deck and then the subsequent tip-over interactions of all the bodies. This explicit method will allow the consideration of all the previously stated variables in a dynamic simulation, not possible with simple static, implicit models. The objective of the finite element modeling is to evaluate all the parameters and to provide guidelines on the maximum speed.
When the Edge Protection is cut to the OD height of the product on the pallet, the edge protection is carrying the majority of the load. By accurately sizing the edge protection, both the edge protection and boxes work together to dramatically increase the stacking strength of the entire load.
When the Edge Protection is cut to the OD height of the product on the pallet, the edge protection is carrying the majority of the load. By accurately sizing the edge protection, both the edge protection and boxes work together to dramatically increase the stacking strength of the entire load.
This presentation is the first public presentation of the first-ever industry-wide life cycle assessment of an average corrugated box including the history, challenges encountered and some thoughts for interpreting the results. The study allowed the industry to document our current position and to map a course for future goals.
This presentation is the first public presentation of the first-ever industry-wide life cycle assessment of an average corrugated box including the history, challenges encountered and some thoughts for interpreting the results. The study allowed the industry to document our current position and to map a course for future goals.
Packaging plays critical role in protecting products during transportation. Although standard test procedures provide characteristics of packaging materials, it may not be sufficient to predict package performance during transportation. Application specific testing not only assist in predicting transportation performance but also gives a holistic view to understand interactions among different packaging types. We have presented two case studies that explore packaging performance using transportation testing.

First case study examines unitized loads to understand correlation between standard stretch film testing and transportation performance. Stretch wrapping is widely practiced methodology for unitizing pallet of goods to provide load stability during transportation and handling. Recent trends downgauging trends in stretch films have created a need to assess stretch film performance holistically to optimize packaging cost, product damage and sustainability impact. Industry still lacks information to understand stretch film performance during transportation and its correlation with lab testing. This study has focused on generating this information to define and predict stretch film performance during transport.

Second case study reviews small parcel shipment to analyze interactions of primary, secondary and protective packaging. It is essential to understand packaging needs to reduce product damage while optimizing packaging material and cost. Furthermore, sustainability impact of packaging as well as product damage is analyzed to design a holistic packaging approach.
ISTA and ASTM standards do not replicate the distribution environment seen by every product. Understanding your environment is critical to the success of the packaging system. This presentation will provide examples of distribution maps and test plans created from these maps as well as showing what a powerful communication tool these maps can be.
ISTA and ASTM standards do not replicate the distribution environment seen by every product. Understanding your environment is critical to the success of the packaging system. This presentation will provide examples of distribution maps and test plans created from these maps as well as showing what a powerful communication tool these maps can be.
This investigation encompasses a corporate goal to standardize corrugated material specifications worldwide and calculate the variation across the suppliers of corrugated papers. A statistically valid sample size was used to develop this design of experiment incorporating edge crush, box compression, and burst testing to determine correlation. Obtained test results were compared with corporate safety factor along with McKee formula comparisons for probability of percent error between compression & ECT values. Testing was completed internally by Intel Corporation following industry standards. Evaluation of increased medium weight and constant overall liner/medium weight demonstrated compression strength improvement. Data analysis demonstrates a strong correlation of material specification across a majority of the sampled supply base to meet supply chain requirements.
This investigation encompasses a corporate goal to standardize corrugated material specifications worldwide and calculate the variation across the suppliers of corrugated papers. A statistically valid sample size was used to develop this design of experiment incorporating edge crush, box compression, and burst testing to determine correlation. Obtained test results were compared with corporate safety factor along with McKee formula comparisons for probability of percent error between compression & ECT values. Testing was completed internally by Intel Corporation following industry standards. Evaluation of increased medium weight and constant overall liner/medium weight demonstrated compression strength improvement. Data analysis demonstrates a strong correlation of material specification across a majority of the sampled supply base to meet supply chain requirements.
Discussion on the progress of a new packaging test protocol that is being developed in partnership with ISTA. The new test protocol will cover all types of packages and is expected to provide more accurate simulations of the distribution environment as it is based on data collection and observations from the Sam’s Club distribution system. This project is part of Walmart’s effort to reduce product packaging while ensuring the reliable transportation of products.
The topic of this presentation is the effective application of machine stretch film for load integrity and security of goods in-transit. Improper stretch wrapping is the primary driver of break, damage and loss during shipping for manufacturers of consumer goods. The goal of this course is to illustrate the science of proper stretch film application through the optimization of stretch film, the wrapping machine and the load.

With an endless variation of inputs in the wrapping process - it is critical to understand the function of each to yield an effective combination. We will cover: How gauge, roll width, and resin blends effect the operational window of each film, key differences between pre-stretch carriages styles - exposing strengths and weaknesses of each, and specific load dynamics and how they effect inherent stability.

Stretching of the film is paramount to load success in transit, but it is critical to understand the effects of both pre-stretch and secondary stretch in the sum of ‘on-pallet stretch’. Covered will be a technical explanation of the benefits each provide and how load characteristics dictate their ratio to each other. Load stability is the sum of all parts and testing to confirm success will be discussed in regards to current and future methods.
The topic of this presentation is the effective application of machine stretch film for load integrity and security of goods in-transit. Improper stretch wrapping is the primary driver of break, damage and loss during shipping for manufacturers of consumer goods. The goal of this course is to illustrate the science of proper stretch film application through the optimization of stretch film, the wrapping machine and the load.

With an endless variation of inputs in the wrapping process - it is critical to understand the function of each to yield an effective combination. We will cover: How gauge, roll width, and resin blends effect the operational window of each film, key differences between pre-stretch carriages styles - exposing strengths and weaknesses of each, and specific load dynamics and how they effect inherent stability.

Stretching of the film is paramount to load success in transit, but it is critical to understand the effects of both pre-stretch and secondary stretch in the sum of ‘on-pallet stretch’. Covered will be a technical explanation of the benefits each provide and how load characteristics dictate their ratio to each other. Load stability is the sum of all parts and testing to confirm success will be discussed in regards to current and future methods.
Currently bulk packaging for satellite television receivers are comprised of either:
1. polyethylene (PE) foam or
2. corrugated fiberboard (CFB)
Both packages utilize a regular slotted container to house all components. EPE USA has identified a need to investigate various combinations of protective packaging solutions for both PE foamandCFB inserts.The objective of this study is to gain an understanding of shock levels experienced by these receivers in various bulk packaging formats. Dummy receiver payloads will be instrumented with tri-axial accelerometers to record peakGas a result ofmultiple drops in accordance to ISTA 2A. A comparison of shock results will be conducted between the various bulk packaging formats to identify the most optimum form of packaging solution with regard to performance, cost and minimal usage of protective packaging components.
The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the stress energy method of cushion testing can be applied to polymeric foams with thicknesses less than one inch. A summary of the methods used, test results and implications to the packaging community will be discussed.
The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the stress energy method of cushion testing can be applied to polymeric foams with thicknesses less than one inch. A summary of the methods used, test results and implications to the packaging community will be discussed.
Companies now track and report source reduction of packaging materials to meet their sustainability goals. Many have set targets of 20 - 25%. As these reductions in packaging materials are made, do product losses increase due to damage? This session provides a more detailed view of how to optimize packaging without increasing product damage. This session is focused on Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and the Master Test Plan.
During warehouse stacking or stacked transportation, the corrugated boxes on the bottom layer of the pallet experience significant amount of vertical compression stresses. Palletization factors such as pallet gaps, overhang, or interlocking have a major effect on the strength of the corrugated boxes and are already built into the commonly used safety factors. However, the effect of pallet stiffness on the compression strength of boxes is lesser known and not accounted for.  
This paper examines the cost and carbon footprint for shipping unit-loads of palletized electronics from Shanghai to a Chicago distribution center via air, sea and land. A comparison is made for shipping the same product in two different cube sizes to understand the enviro-cost economics of cube and weight reduction.
This paper examines the cost and carbon footprint for shipping unit-loads of palletized electronics from Shanghai to a Chicago distribution center via air, sea and land. A comparison is made for shipping the same product in two different cube sizes to understand the enviro-cost economics of cube and weight reduction.
This presentation will provide a cadence of developing and validating a compliant, low cost, innovative, sustainable packaging system that will knock down the many barriers that companies face on a global basis.
This presentation will provide a cadence of developing and validating a compliant, low cost, innovative, sustainable packaging system that will knock down the many barriers that companies face on a global basis.
An independent group comprised of individuals from organizations involved in the life science supply chain for temperature-sensitive products has partnered to develop and publish technical guidance that defines a representative standard and drives standardization for the advancement of the industry.  In 2018 the group completed a best practice guide on the use of reusable passive thermal packaging systems which was published as a USP stimuli article in March 2019.  The group has since been developing best practice guidance on the operational qualification (OQ) process of passive thermal packaging.  In this session the latest on the OQ best practice guidance will be presented and attendees will be asked to provide live feedback on the specifics.
This is a story about leadership, about building a team of subject matter experts, and collaborating to win. This is a case study of a company who tore down barriers and turned around their retail business in 78 days!
This is a story about leadership, about building a team of subject matter experts, and collaborating to win. This is a case study of a company who tore down barriers and turned around their retail business in 78 days!
Beyond the standard tests like the impact test, shock and vibration test or compression test, there are additional demands in countries with mainly manual handling. This presentation shows the approach and tailoring of new tests to cover demands like `walking on appliances´ or `carrying on the back´.
This presentation describes a method for producing more realistic vibrations for transport simulations. This is achieved by continually varying the Grms level of the random vibrations according to a statistical model. Results show that this approach is capable of successfully reproducing the occasional large amplitude events that are so typical of transport vibrations.
This presentation describes a method for producing more realistic vibrations for transport simulations. This is achieved by continually varying the Grms level of the random vibrations according to a statistical model. Results show that this approach is capable of successfully reproducing the occasional large amplitude events that are so typical of transport vibrations.
This paper describes the initial findings from an investigation into the nature of the pitch, roll and heave motion of road transport vehicles. Because the vertical vibrations emanating from road vehicles have been shown to be significantly more severe than the other modes of vibration, the broadly adopted approach to undertaking transportation field trials have been restricted to simulating the vertical motion. However it is becoming increasingly recognized that, in some cases, the pitch and roll motion experienced under certain conditions, although relatively less severe, can be as detrimental to the shipment as vertical vibrations. This is particularly the case for vehicles with short wheelbases, carrying tall loads. Another motivation for the study is the increasing availability of vibration test systems capable of simultaneously producing vertical, pitch and roll motion. Although data and guidelines for simulating vertical vibrations of road vehicles are readily available, there is a distinct lack of information on pitch and roll motion. This paper describes the findings of a research project aimed at better understanding the relationship between vertical vibrations and pitch and roll motion for road transport vehicles. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) was used to collect heave, pitch and roll data for a range of conditions (vehicle type and speed and road roughness).
This paper describes the initial findings from an investigation into the nature of the pitch, roll and heave motion of road transport vehicles. Because the vertical vibrations emanating from road vehicles have been shown to be significantly more severe than the other modes of vibration, the broadly adopted approach to undertaking transportation field trials have been restricted to simulating the vertical motion. However it is becoming increasingly recognized that, in some cases, the pitch and roll motion experienced under certain conditions, although relatively less severe, can be as detrimental to the shipment as vertical vibrations. This is particularly the case for vehicles with short wheelbases, carrying tall loads. Another motivation for the study is the increasing availability of vibration test systems capable of simultaneously producing vertical, pitch and roll motion. Although data and guidelines for simulating vertical vibrations of road vehicles are readily available, there is a distinct lack of information on pitch and roll motion. This paper describes the findings of a research project aimed at better understanding the relationship between vertical vibrations and pitch and roll motion for road transport vehicles. An inertial measurement unit (IMU) was used to collect heave, pitch and roll data for a range of conditions (vehicle type and speed and road roughness).
 Current research has investigated the effectiveness of new stretch hooding to stabilize unit loads during material handling. Stretch hooding was compared to stretch wrap, vertical stretch wrap, and strapping during vibration and unit load impacts.
 Current research has investigated the effectiveness of new stretch hooding to stabilize unit loads during material handling. Stretch hooding was compared to stretch wrap, vertical stretch wrap, and strapping during vibration and unit load impacts.
 Global industrialization occurred in response to both consumers and manufacturers demand for lower product prices and availability of goods and services. As a result, products are transported greater distances. Shipping constitutes the majority of logistics costs in the export/import supply chain. Shippers and buyers commonly attempt to minimize these costs by maximizing the capacity of ocean freight containers (cube or weight). A systematic approach was developed to determine which method of loading (floor loading or unitizing on pallets) is most efficient in regard to cost and time.
 Global industrialization occurred in response to both consumers and manufacturers demand for lower product prices and availability of goods and services. As a result, products are transported greater distances. Shipping constitutes the majority of logistics costs in the export/import supply chain. Shippers and buyers commonly attempt to minimize these costs by maximizing the capacity of ocean freight containers (cube or weight). A systematic approach was developed to determine which method of loading (floor loading or unitizing on pallets) is most efficient in regard to cost and time.
This presentation is a case study that investigates different stretch wrap films on bottled water unit loads. The study uses unit load stability as part of the performance characteristics. The films vary in manufacturer, gauge, and prestretch levels.
This presentation is a case study that investigates different stretch wrap films on bottled water unit loads. The study uses unit load stability as part of the performance characteristics. The films vary in manufacturer, gauge, and prestretch levels.
The McKee equation has been the basis of corrugated compression for over 50 years. It was developed using panel bending theory and empirically fit to box compression data.  However, it is only valid for a regular slotted container (RSC).

By utilizing pressure pad technology, the actual load distribution across the box panels can be measured.  The pressure pad technology is a matrix of strain gauges that measure the load at each point of the mat.  The pads are used in a wide variety of applications from automotive to medical.  They have also been used in pallet research to evaluate the load distribution on pallet deckboards.

This research has focused on developing a technique to first evaluate the load distribution to the theoretical distribution found in the McKee equation.  The second part of the research will evaluate the load distribution and development of a predictive equation for a bliss style box.
Mold growth on pallets continues to be problematic for both pallet producers and users. This presentation will discussed the importance of proper pallet storage and the role of moisture in preventing mold growth. There is often a misconception that heat treatment for ISPM15 requirements is also a mold prevention method. In fact, heat treatment often enhances the potential of mold growth. A introduction into alternative chemical treatments will be included.
Mold growth on pallets continues to be problematic for both pallet producers and users. This presentation will discussed the importance of proper pallet storage and the role of moisture in preventing mold growth. There is often a misconception that heat treatment for ISPM15 requirements is also a mold prevention method. In fact, heat treatment often enhances the potential of mold growth. A introduction into alternative chemical treatments will be included.
One area of transport packaging that lacks a quantifiable test method is unit load stability. While the worst case failure scenario is obvious, intermediate stability comparison is difficult. A test method to evaluate the level of package shift in the unit load during impact will be presented.
One area of transport packaging that lacks a quantifiable test method is unit load stability. While the worst case failure scenario is obvious, intermediate stability comparison is difficult. A test method to evaluate the level of package shift in the unit load during impact will be presented.
Plastic and corrugated distribution totes are widely used in pharmaceutical and healthcare transport from distribution centers (DCs) to individual stores. To date, there has not been a study on product damages in this process. This project will assess damages to healthcare products, survey attempts to reduce damages, and recommend good practices and pre-shipment test procedures.
Plastic and corrugated distribution totes are widely used in pharmaceutical and healthcare transport from distribution centers (DCs) to individual stores. To date, there has not been a study on product damages in this process. This project will assess damages to healthcare products, survey attempts to reduce damages, and recommend good practices and pre-shipment test procedures.
The 4-dimensional approach to packaging design within a system (design for manufacturing, design for assembly/disassembly, design for logistics and design for environment) will be discussed in addition to sustainability as a metric for supply chain modeling and packaging strategy impact.
 A carton clamp device is advantageous as it allows operators to move layers of a unitized load individually, and eliminates the need for a pallet when handling full unitized loads. The required clamping force typically changes depending on the size, shape, and weight of the load. This creates the potential for under-clamping (slippage) and over-clamping (compressive damage). Sears as a company uses carton-clamping methodologies as opposed to traditional fork and pallet lifting methods in their warehouse. In the United States their merchandise is stored in a distribution center until being shipped to individual retailers. This project focuses on the portion of the distribution channel from the distribution center to the retailer. The primary objective was to provide clamp truck handling related guidelines that could be used in practice by Sears Holding Corporation warehoused merchandise. Product of varying sizes was tested in several different configurations to be carried by a carton clamp according to a modified version of ISTA 3B.
 A carton clamp device is advantageous as it allows operators to move layers of a unitized load individually, and eliminates the need for a pallet when handling full unitized loads. The required clamping force typically changes depending on the size, shape, and weight of the load. This creates the potential for under-clamping (slippage) and over-clamping (compressive damage). Sears as a company uses carton-clamping methodologies as opposed to traditional fork and pallet lifting methods in their warehouse. In the United States their merchandise is stored in a distribution center until being shipped to individual retailers. This project focuses on the portion of the distribution channel from the distribution center to the retailer. The primary objective was to provide clamp truck handling related guidelines that could be used in practice by Sears Holding Corporation warehoused merchandise. Product of varying sizes was tested in several different configurations to be carried by a carton clamp according to a modified version of ISTA 3B.
 IBM has developed a tool that can help manage carbon emissions and other operational metrics associated with outbound finished goods shipments. The objective of the tool is to support important executive level business decisions by providing an ability to consider the economic and environmental aspects of alternative operational choices. The tool allows decision makers to compare alternative approaches considering packaging size, sourcing, transportation routing, and service level agreements. This talk will articulate a general framework that IBM Research has for modeling carbon emissions in a supply chain and the demo of the tool which is the first module of what will eventually become a tool capable of modeling carbon emissions in other areas of a supply chain.
 IBM has developed a tool that can help manage carbon emissions and other operational metrics associated with outbound finished goods shipments. The objective of the tool is to support important executive level business decisions by providing an ability to consider the economic and environmental aspects of alternative operational choices. The tool allows decision makers to compare alternative approaches considering packaging size, sourcing, transportation routing, and service level agreements. This talk will articulate a general framework that IBM Research has for modeling carbon emissions in a supply chain and the demo of the tool which is the first module of what will eventually become a tool capable of modeling carbon emissions in other areas of a supply chain.
This presentation takes the findings from RTST's dynamic analyses and observations and translates that into specific actionable recommendations. This includes product and packaging design as well as handling techniques applicable to top heavy products. A human factors study of proposed safe handling icons for packaged products will also be presented.
This presentation takes the findings from RTST's dynamic analyses and observations and translates that into specific actionable recommendations. This includes product and packaging design as well as handling techniques applicable to top heavy products. A human factors study of proposed safe handling icons for packaged products will also be presented.
Many different shapes of random vibration spectra are being suggested as the "true" input from a truck, rail car, or aircraft. Does the shape of the spectrum REALLY affect the results of the test? The results of this simple experiment may help reduce the complexity of product and package vibration performance testing.
Many different shapes of random vibration spectra are being suggested as the "true" input from a truck, rail car, or aircraft. Does the shape of the spectrum REALLY affect the results of the test? The results of this simple experiment may help reduce the complexity of product and package vibration performance testing.
The program will introduce the use of Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) tools and techniques in the development of Controlled Temperature Distribution practices. Distribution situations for new and existing systems will be highlighted, with potential applications for the various DFSS tools. Passive / Active thermal containers, temperature controlled trucks, storage freezers / refrigerators and Risk Management are all appropriate discussion topics.
This presentation will provide insight in to the latest trends in European retail, looking at the rapid growth of ‘discounters’ and how this is changing the retailer landscape. In addition the presentation will provide a view on the growth of e-commerce, running in parallel to the discounter trend. The presenter will discuss how suppliers are facing potentially conflicting and divergent demands from retail and e-tail (the challenges and dilemmas), as well as some of the key opportunities for packaging, retail and the supply chain. Takeaways: 
• A view of retail and consumer trends in Europe 
• Insight in to the complexities of managing e-commerce from packaging perspective 
• Stimulus for improvement opportunities through case studies showing poor and good practice
This presentation will provide insight in to the latest trends in European retail, looking at the rapid growth of ‘discounters’ and how this is changing the retailer landscape. In addition the presentation will provide a view on the growth of e-commerce, running in parallel to the discounter trend. The presenter will discuss how suppliers are facing potentially conflicting and divergent demands from retail and e-tail (the challenges and dilemmas), as well as some of the key opportunities for packaging, retail and the supply chain. Takeaways: 
• A view of retail and consumer trends in Europe 
• Insight in to the complexities of managing e-commerce from packaging perspective 
• Stimulus for improvement opportunities through case studies showing poor and good practice
 A number of valuable presentations have been made at the Forum in recent years focusing on sustainability and the critical importance of this issue; in some cases this has included example packaging reduction initiatives that demonstrated tangible areas for improvement. This presentation discusses a number of hypothetical solutions further into the future by considering the technology, packaging, logistics and supply chain advances that we might need to engineer to make a step change towards sustainability.
A range of distribution test methods have been developed over the years; importantly in recent years this has broadened to include tests for non-standard shaped packs and to cover retailer operations. These recent methods help in reproducing hazards that regular standards overlook. This presentation discusses the importance of focused test method development for selected products, illustrated through two case studies.
A range of distribution test methods have been developed over the years; importantly in recent years this has broadened to include tests for non-standard shaped packs and to cover retailer operations. These recent methods help in reproducing hazards that regular standards overlook. This presentation discusses the importance of focused test method development for selected products, illustrated through two case studies.
Valuable paintings are frequently shipped around the world for exhibition loans. These products defy conventional packaging design methodology; each painting is unique, undefined, irreplaceable and often very old. This paper reviews previous work on the topic and describes the testing of a recently developed returnable pack system.
Valuable paintings are frequently shipped around the world for exhibition loans. These products defy conventional packaging design methodology; each painting is unique, undefined, irreplaceable and often very old. This paper reviews previous work on the topic and describes the testing of a recently developed returnable pack system.
Products must be designed and packaged to be durable to supply chain hazards. This paper considers the diversity in supply chains and the importance of effective supply chain mapping. Case studies will be presented showing how packaging optimization can be supported by appropriate testing linked to good supply chain knowledge.
Products must be designed and packaged to be durable to supply chain hazards. This paper considers the diversity in supply chains and the importance of effective supply chain mapping. Case studies will be presented showing how packaging optimization can be supported by appropriate testing linked to good supply chain knowledge.
 "Condensation (container sweating) is a problem that affects many containerised shipments. The UK P&I Club (a major international marine insurer) report that water damage accounts for 10% of containerised shipment damage claims. The US is a significant export market for major UK breweries. Beer is exported in can, bottle and keg formats. Export is made by sea container freight to both east and west coast ports. The combination of efficiency in logistics, collation pack formats and product temperature makes beer exports particularly vulnerable to moisture damage. This presentation will examine the causes of container sweating and the range of controls introduced by brewers to prevent moisture damage."
There is an on-going major focus on reducing the environmental impacts of packaging, at both primary and distribution levels. Many packaging engineers are tasked to re-design primary and transport packs against an agenda of improved sustainability and / or the use of “greener” materials. This paper examines a range of pressures that can cause poor design decisions with the result of ineffective or counterproductive environmental initiatives.
There is an on-going major focus on reducing the environmental impacts of packaging, at both primary and distribution levels. Many packaging engineers are tasked to re-design primary and transport packs against an agenda of improved sustainability and / or the use of “greener” materials. This paper examines a range of pressures that can cause poor design decisions with the result of ineffective or counterproductive environmental initiatives.
With the development of new vibration test techniques there is real interest in understanding how different test techniques correlate with field performance. Real sample correlation studies are an ideal approach to test evaluation but present challenges of time, cost and sample requirements: these are rarely reported in the public domain. Pira is undertaking studies to develop vibration response systems to provide a way of comparing different test methods. This paper presents the findings of two systems; one based on the movement of a threaded weight and one on surface scuffing.
With the development of new vibration test techniques there is real interest in understanding how different test techniques correlate with field performance. Real sample correlation studies are an ideal approach to test evaluation but present challenges of time, cost and sample requirements: these are rarely reported in the public domain. Pira is undertaking studies to develop vibration response systems to provide a way of comparing different test methods. This paper presents the findings of two systems; one based on the movement of a threaded weight and one on surface scuffing.
Most standard vibration tests are run at increased intensity to reduce test time. This paper reviews the thinking behind test acceleration and considers the implications of accelerating kurtosis corrected tests – with some interesting and surprising results!
Most standard vibration tests are run at increased intensity to reduce test time. This paper reviews the thinking behind test acceleration and considers the implications of accelerating kurtosis corrected tests – with some interesting and surprising results!
Many studies have been done to characterize the vibration of a trailer during transit. These studies form the basis for many industry standard package tests. In reality, many packages do not rest directly on the trailer during transit. For example, freight can be stacked onto other freight, onto decking beams, or decking tables. Through extensive related field data gathering, this study attempts to understand how the vibration conditions of a wider range of common loading conditions may change package designs and testing.
Cold chain solutions typically involve excessive packaging to ensure that the desired product temperature is maintained through distribution thereby increasing the logistics related costs, which are estimated to be six times as compared to the package itself. There are numerous solutions available for shipping temperature sensitive products that include a variety of packaging materials as well as refrigerants. Though characteristics such as the R-values of package systems and the melting points and heat absorption rates of various refrigerants have been studied in the past, none of the past studies have evaluated the effect of distribution (vibration, shocks, ambient temperature, etc.) on the reliability of the cold chain packaging solutions. This research studied the temperature profiles for factors such as the different densities for a given thickness of packaging material, wall thicknesses and distribution environment hazards. The findings of this study will be decisive in designing cost efficient and practical single-use cold chain transportation solutions for temperature sensitive products.
Cold chain solutions typically involve excessive packaging to ensure that the desired product temperature is maintained through distribution thereby increasing the logistics related costs, which are estimated to be six times as compared to the package itself. There are numerous solutions available for shipping temperature sensitive products that include a variety of packaging materials as well as refrigerants. Though characteristics such as the R-values of package systems and the melting points and heat absorption rates of various refrigerants have been studied in the past, none of the past studies have evaluated the effect of distribution (vibration, shocks, ambient temperature, etc.) on the reliability of the cold chain packaging solutions. This research studied the temperature profiles for factors such as the different densities for a given thickness of packaging material, wall thicknesses and distribution environment hazards. The findings of this study will be decisive in designing cost efficient and practical single-use cold chain transportation solutions for temperature sensitive products.
This study conducted a review of current packaging systems for mangos that are imported into the US from various countries in Latin America and South America. Over 1500 growers use over hundred different styles of shipping containers to ship fresh mangos into the United States retail stores. The study reviewed post-harvest, processing, packaging, and shipping conditions for fresh mangos. The paper will present findings based on strength of boxes and requirements for temperature control.
A carton clamp device is advantageous as it allows operators to move layers of a unitized load individually, and eliminates the need for a pallet when handling full unitized loads. The required clamping force typically changes depending on the size, shape, and weight of the load. This creates the potential for under-clamping (slippage) and over-clamping (compressive damage). While ISTA provides a calculated and stationary simulation of carton clamp handling in its ISTA 6-SAMS test protocol, ASTM offers a more dynamic and observational approach through its ASTM D6055 standard. This study examines whether or not a common ground can be reached towards implementing a carton clamp lift truck as found in industry allowing for mobile (hazard course) testing. A modified version of ISTA 3B was paired off against ASTM 6055 for observing the test methodologies’ effect on load containment, load retention, and the effects of ride height and driver interaction.
 A carton clamp device is advantageous as it allows operators to move layers of a unitized load individually, and eliminates the need for a pallet when handling full unitized loads. The required clamping force typically changes depending on the size, shape, and weight of the load. This creates the potential for under-clamping (slippage) and over-clamping (compressive damage). While ISTA provides a calculated and stationary simulation of carton clamp handling in its ISTA 6-SAMS test protocol, ASTM offers a more dynamic and observational approach through its ASTM D6055 standard. This study examines whether or not a common ground can be reached towards implementing a carton clamp lift truck as found in industry allowing for mobile (hazard course) testing. A modified version of ISTA 3B was paired off against ASTM 6055 for observing the test methodologies’ effect on load containment, load retention, and the effects of ride height and driver interaction.
Many studies have been done to characterize the vibration of a trailer during transit. These studies form the basis for many industry standard package tests. In reality, many packages do not rest directly on the trailer during transit. For example, freight can be stacked onto other freight, onto decking beams, or decking tables. Through extensive related field data gathering, this study attempts to understand how the vibration conditions of a wider range of common loading conditions may change package designs and testing.
This study measured temperature and pressure in air shipments using both feeder aircraft and long range jet aircraft. Results show pressure drop rates as well as levels in aircraft shipments for long inter-continental flights as well short feeder aircraft. Recommended changes to existing test methods will be presented.
This study measured temperature and pressure in air shipments using both feeder aircraft and long range jet aircraft. Results show pressure drop rates as well as levels in aircraft shipments for long inter-continental flights as well short feeder aircraft. Recommended changes to existing test methods will be presented.
While it leads the global retail opportunity index as the greatest under-served market in the world, the Indian logistics/supply chain sector has yet to even meet the requirements of the urban population due to challenges such as poor infrastructure, highly fragmented supplier base, complex systems of taxes & government regulations, ineffective usage of information technologies & communication, insufficient mature distribution channels, non-existent warehouse standards, and disorganized trucking operations. The general intended supply chains in India are fairly unique. This presentation provides summary details of the supply chain related distribution activities of 13 CPG manufacturers, retailers and e-commerce companies in India. While quite a few of the companies included in this study follow adapted versions of western supply chain models, a majority rely on fairly unique versions of the Indian legacy models.
The desire for sustainable packaging is moving forward at an incredible pace. Bringing organizations together to discuss best practices is necessary. In the 21st Century packaging design, and materials used must consider functionality, safety, disposability, reusability, and biodegradability while reducing the cost of packaging and logistics.
The desire for sustainable packaging is moving forward at an incredible pace. Bringing organizations together to discuss best practices is necessary. In the 21st Century packaging design, and materials used must consider functionality, safety, disposability, reusability, and biodegradability while reducing the cost of packaging and logistics.
Many studies have been done to characterize the vibration of a trailer during transit. These studies form the basis for many industry standard package tests. In reality, many packages do not rest directly on the trailer during transit. For example, freight can be stacked onto other freight, onto decking beams, or decking tables. Through extensive related field data gathering, this study attempts to understand how the vibration conditions of a wider range of common loading conditions may change package designs and testing.
The single parcel carriers handle groups of very small packages, identified as "SMALLS", in bags collectively as they are sorted and shipped. This study quantifies the dynamics of these small individual packages as they are handled, sorted and shipped through the single parcel environment to better understand what happens to these packages individually.
The single parcel carriers handle groups of very small packages, identified as "SMALLS", in bags collectively as they are sorted and shipped. This study quantifies the dynamics of these small individual packages as they are handled, sorted and shipped through the single parcel environment to better understand what happens to these packages individually.
This presentation will cover the rising impact of e-business with Amazon China and Alibaba and has put a significant challenge on packaging for these and other e-commerce businesses to provide on-time fast delivery while maintaining the integrity of products and preventing damage. The presentation will provide good and bad examples of what works in the second largest economy with the world’s largest demand and population.
 In today’s global shipping environment, handling of sea containers continues to be a challenge as port conditions vary. This presentation will share some recent studies done to collect data and video on handling of containers at global ports.
 The presentation will cover testimony and expert opinions involving packaging including cases for Department of Justice and major US companies for hazardous materials and consumer packaging.
This presentation will discuss the importance of packaging and transportation research driving ISTA to be a leader in the next decade. It will empower the participants and ISTA member organizations to develop a collective effort to enhance the strength of developing new and updated test methods and knowledge to keep ISTA at the forefront of new technologies and applications in distribution packaging.
The current labor availability and retention challenges are impacting the importance of effective and consistent on boarding practices – particularly in high-turnover fulfillment positions. Makes sense right…the faster new employees get “up to speed” the quicker they deliver value to the business. From a packaging design standpoint, how do we bring our creations in the lab to life on the production floor, fulfillment center, or across multiple locations? As we all know, we can create the best package in a lab but if it is not assembled/fulfilled correctly, damages and other negative customer experiences can quickly add up. In this segment we will take a look at using Virtual Reality (VR) to decrease the new employee learning curve, bring lab designs to the production environment, and create a training platform that ensures repeatability across multiple locations.
 " Military packaging provides protection for ammunition, equipment, and medical supplies within the logistics chain worldwide. Unlike commercial supply chains, packages distributed in the military logistics chain are exposed to excessive (rough) handling, extreme (shock, vibration, & weather, conditions) during various modes of transportation by (air, land, & sea) and is required to perform at the highest level ensuring the War Fighters success on the battlefield. 

Speak on: 

- Severity of experience – combat 
- Uniqueness of requirements - ( beans, band aids, bullets) 
- Changes in environment - location, host nation support, etc. 
- Global challenges – language, culture 
- Diversity of missions – war, training, humanitarian"
Shipping studies to confirm product quality through distribution are a pre-requisite for approval of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. To reduce cost and increase statistical confidence in these studies, Eli Lilly has developed a test facility capable of executing multi-axis vibration studies within a temperature and pressure controlled environment. Since industry standard vibration profiles are not available for multi-axis vibration, Lilly has developed multi-axis vibration profiles based on data recorded during domestic and international product shipments. This paper will discuss the methodology for acquiring and processing vibration data and the approach to creation and execution of test protocols using the Lilly profiles.  The paper will focus on the current profiles for over the road trucks, but will include summary conclusions regarding data collected for transport by Ocean and Air as well as next steps planned to mitigate limiting factors in the process.
Shipping studies to confirm product quality through distribution are a pre-requisite for approval of pharmaceutical products and medical devices. To reduce cost and increase statistical confidence in these studies, Eli Lilly has developed a test facility capable of executing multi-axis vibration studies within a temperature and pressure controlled environment. Since industry standard vibration profiles are not available for multi-axis vibration, Lilly has developed multi-axis vibration profiles based on data recorded during domestic and international product shipments. This paper will discuss the methodology for acquiring and processing vibration data and the approach to creation and execution of test protocols using the Lilly profiles.  The paper will focus on the current profiles for over the road trucks, but will include summary conclusions regarding data collected for transport by Ocean and Air as well as next steps planned to mitigate limiting factors in the process.
This presentation will show how using new AI tools like "Watson Analytics” can glean Shipping Damage trends and other focus areas for Packaging and Supply Chain improvements given structured shipping data.  This process can be very time consuming and daunting if done manually.  These new tools can create informative insights much easier and faster by "asking questions" and then creating logical visualizations with little effort.
It is theorized that light weighting packaging systems for improved sustainability and cost efficiencies, combined with the traditional simulation practice of emphasizing only single-axis, vertical vibration in design and testing, has resulted in changing the influence of vibration in other degrees of freedom from a secondary concern to a primary concern.  This study is on the performance of light weighted versus non-light weighted containers using vibration in varying degrees of freedom to better understand how light weighting of containers affects distribution damage, and how to counter the impact of multiple degrees of freedom of vibration without losing the advantages of sustainable design. 
It is theorized that light weighting packaging systems for improved sustainability and cost efficiencies, combined with the traditional simulation practice of emphasizing only single-axis, vertical vibration in design and testing, has resulted in changing the influence of vibration in other degrees of freedom from a secondary concern to a primary concern.  This study is on the performance of light weighted versus non-light weighted containers using vibration in varying degrees of freedom to better understand how light weighting of containers affects distribution damage, and how to counter the impact of multiple degrees of freedom of vibration without losing the advantages of sustainable design. 
Multi-axis vibration testing has the potential to help solve package damage issues that single-axis testing cannot; however, understanding how to best utilize multi-axis testing requires 6 degree-offreedom (6DOF) measurement methods that are comparatively new to the package industry. 6DOF measurements include rotational motion along with 3-axis linear motion and there are multiple ways to obtain this rotational data.

For decades other industries and the military have used 3-point methods utilizing linear accelerometers arranged in predetermined positions relative to each other. One accelerometer acts as a reference point for the other two, and rotational motion is determined using calculations based on linear acceleration data between the points. There are downsides to this type of method; a large amount of space is required to set up a 3-point system, proper relative placement of accelerometers is critical, system noise and offsets can adversely affect calculation results.

Low cost single-point rotational sensors are widely used in video game controllers and smart phones, but only recently have been applied to rotational measurements in packaging dynamics. Literature comparing the performance of these sensors to the more established 3-point methods of rotational measurement is minimal and lacks adequate comparisons in packaging related use. This study is designed to help fill the information void by comparing these two methods for measuring rotational movement in both the lab and in the field, to understand what, if any, differences may exist in data obtained from these alternatives.
A series of case studies will be used to illustrate new technologies and methods for automating packaging design, virtual prototyping, interfacing packaging design with business and logistics systems, enabling collaboration through the packaging supply chain and utilizing on-demand, one off packaging technologies to replace damaged shippers onsite at the retailer.
A series of case studies will be used to illustrate new technologies and methods for automating packaging design, virtual prototyping, interfacing packaging design with business and logistics systems, enabling collaboration through the packaging supply chain and utilizing on-demand, one off packaging technologies to replace damaged shippers onsite at the retailer.
$75.00 USD
"What is altitude testing? What is altitude simulation? Is there a difference? Why not run separate altitude and vibration tests? What are the standards? How is it done? Do I need to do it? Here are answers to these questions along with a couple of case studies. 

Takeaways: Learn whether you need to consider “Altitude on Random” testing. Learn when you need to and what you need to perform it."
"What is altitude testing? What is altitude simulation? Is there a difference? Why not run separate altitude and vibration tests? What are the standards? How is it done? Do I need to do it? Here are answers to these questions along with a couple of case studies. 

Takeaways: Learn whether you need to consider “Altitude on Random” testing. Learn when you need to and what you need to perform it."
What is the difference between fixed and floating platen compression testing? How are the results different? Why are the results different? When should I consider using floating platen? This presentation will include data as well as discussion.
What is the difference between fixed and floating platen compression testing? How are the results different? Why are the results different? When should I consider using floating platen? This presentation will include data as well as discussion.
What's wrong with average? What's a sigma? Why would I want six of them? Why would I sometimes only want four of them. How can I calculate sigma? What's a CoV?
What's wrong with average? What's a sigma? Why would I want six of them? Why would I sometimes only want four of them. How can I calculate sigma? What's a CoV?
What is vibration and why should you care about it? What is resonance and why should you care about it? When shouldn’t you care about resonance? Why does the second layer of cases on some pallets show more compression damage than the bottom layer, even though the bottom layer has more weight on it? How can you simulate a stacked vibration test, including resonance, using only one case of product? Why does a pallet affect a vibration test? How will I answer all these questions in the time allotted? There’s only one way to find out.
What is vibration and why should you care about it? What is resonance and why should you care about it? When shouldn’t you care about resonance? Why does the second layer of cases on some pallets show more compression damage than the bottom layer, even though the bottom layer has more weight on it? How can you simulate a stacked vibration test, including resonance, using only one case of product? Why does a pallet affect a vibration test? How will I answer all these questions in the time allotted? There’s only one way to find out.
After Ralph Rupert's presentation at the 2011 Transport Packaging Forum, we began experimenting with ways to test and measure unit load stability using an inclined impact tester. Here are several approaches we tried, and what we like and dislike about them. Takeaway: Hopefully you’ll take away ideas you can try in your lab. Better yet, maybe this presentation will spark new ideas, or new ways to use and interpret the results. Even better, maybe your ideas will make their way to ISTA’s Load Stability Workgroup which would help them develop a useable test.
After Ralph Rupert's presentation at the 2011 Transport Packaging Forum, we began experimenting with ways to test and measure unit load stability using an inclined impact tester. Here are several approaches we tried, and what we like and dislike about them. Takeaway: Hopefully you’ll take away ideas you can try in your lab. Better yet, maybe this presentation will spark new ideas, or new ways to use and interpret the results. Even better, maybe your ideas will make their way to ISTA’s Load Stability Workgroup which would help them develop a useable test.
A study comparing shock and vibration aspects of small parcel shipments to the ISTA 3A test, using packaged recording instruments. Variable package size & weight, origin & destination, transportation method, and time for delivery are captured. Field and lab data is compared in an effort to better understand the best way to test products.
Heavy packages cannot be easily tested in the lab to check the effectiveness of their securements against tip over accidents. We will demonstrate how virtual testing (by CAE), supported by real testing, can be utilized to simulate a real-world tip over accident for examination and improvement.
 Heavy packages cannot be easily tested in the lab to check the effectiveness of their securements against tip over accidents. We will demonstrate how virtual testing (by CAE), supported by real testing, can be utilized to simulate a real-world tip over accident for examination and improvement.
As cultural properties cannot be physically tested, Tokyo National Museum is studying to apply CAE simulation to its protective packaging evaluation. We will explain how we obtained favorable simulation results from the combination of actual testing and proper modeling of a vibration isolator which has a non-linear response characteristic.
As cultural properties cannot be physically tested, Tokyo National Museum is studying to apply CAE simulation to its protective packaging evaluation. We will explain how we obtained favorable simulation results from the combination of actual testing and proper modeling of a vibration isolator which has a non-linear response characteristic.
 The Damage Boundary Method often leads to a wasteful package, because it does not consider the supply chain and cube utilization. The Cube Chain Method is an alternative package development technique that focuses on both these aspects in an attempt to address the issue.
 The Damage Boundary Method often leads to a wasteful package, because it does not consider the supply chain and cube utilization. The Cube Chain Method is an alternative package development technique that focuses on both these aspects in an attempt to address the issue.
The Damage Boundary Method often leads to a wasteful package, because it does not consider the supply chain and cube utilization. The Cube Chain Method is an alternative package development technique that focuses on both these aspects in an attempt to address the issue.
 With companies adjusting their packaging needs to the changing economy, many are asking packaging labs to test pallet loads for ability to survive the anticipated distribution environments. But they don’t know which testing protocol to use. This investigation compares ISTA 3E, NMFC Rule 180, and the new ISTA Project 3B for a number of real products, packages, and situations.
 With companies adjusting their packaging needs to the changing economy, many are asking packaging labs to test pallet loads for ability to survive the anticipated distribution environments. But they don’t know which testing protocol to use. This investigation compares ISTA 3E, NMFC Rule 180, and the new ISTA Project 3B for a number of real products, packages, and situations.
The presentation will summarize work focusing on the development of material and simulation models for virtual drop testing including over 30 years of transmitted shock data used as a baseline for our data-driven packaging design process. It will show how we automatically generate multiple packaging designs and then virtually drop test them.
Once you have a Packaging System validated and a change comes, you would like to make an assessment to verify that the already validated Packaging System is good for the new product after the change. You will need to demonstrate that the Packaging System is good, not just today but through the range of the Shelf Life. If performance of the Packaging System design needs to be challenged because the resulting product is the worst case, then you need to challenge the Packaging System design at the non-aged and aged condition. You cannot use a previous performance tests (non-aged and aged) as evidence to declare the Shelf Life of a new product. But Shelf Life can be adopted for a new product which is covered under the worst case scenario. This all details are easily explained with a graphical figure that is exposed over an Energy-Aging graph. 

Takeaways: Attendees of this section will have a tool to make right decisions about the required validations activities when a Packaging System or product is changed. The tool, which is a graphical representation, can be used to align working peers on the required test while helping the organization to have a robust validation."
Once you have a Packaging System validated and a change comes, you would like to make an assessment to verify that the already validated Packaging System is good for the new product after the change. You will need to demonstrate that the Packaging System is good, not just today but through the range of the Shelf Life. If performance of the Packaging System design needs to be challenged because the resulting product is the worst case, then you need to challenge the Packaging System design at the non-aged and aged condition. You cannot use a previous performance tests (non-aged and aged) as evidence to declare the Shelf Life of a new product. But Shelf Life can be adopted for a new product which is covered under the worst case scenario. This all details are easily explained with a graphical figure that is exposed over an Energy-Aging graph. 

Takeaways: Attendees of this section will have a tool to make right decisions about the required validations activities when a Packaging System or product is changed. The tool, which is a graphical representation, can be used to align working peers on the required test while helping the organization to have a robust validation."
This session will present economic and freight data so that supply chain professionals will be better able to understand the external economic and freight-driven factors that impact their ability to move goods across the transportation system. A review of present conditions will also be included to help attendees benchmark their situation to the market.
Companies driven by innovation are most effective when stakeholder input is incorporated early and often. Stratasys embraced this thinking when designing its new 3D desktop printer, Mojo. This presentation will recap the Mojo story, and demonstrate the value of packaging engineering from product design through package design, prototyping and testing.
It is well known that transportation means high and varying stresses for products as well as packages. To develop boxes with the ‘right’ amount of material and the right construction is crucial. The vibrations and shocks acting on pallets during transportation are transferred to the corrugated boxes and considerably reduce the strength and life time of the boxes. Important parameters to consider are stacking strength, load distribution and the degree of stacking misalignment. This paper presents a technique for investigating these stresses based on a pressure sensitive film, which gives many measuring points and a pictorial description of the stresses that occur. A series of tests using static as well as random and sinusoidal vibration testing have been done utilizing this technique and results have been presented for different positions on the pallet. Also advantages and disadvantages with this technique will be described and new knowledge possible to elaborate will be discussed.
It is well known that transportation means high and varying stresses for products as well as packages. To develop boxes with the ‘right’ amount of material and the right construction is crucial. The vibrations and shocks acting on pallets during transportation are transferred to the corrugated boxes and considerably reduce the strength and life time of the boxes. Important parameters to consider are stacking strength, load distribution and the degree of stacking misalignment. This paper presents a technique for investigating these stresses based on a pressure sensitive film, which gives many measuring points and a pictorial description of the stresses that occur. A series of tests using static as well as random and sinusoidal vibration testing have been done utilizing this technique and results have been presented for different positions on the pallet. Also advantages and disadvantages with this technique will be described and new knowledge possible to elaborate will be discussed.
A critical examination of transit packaging technology throughout 4,000 years of history reveals universal principles. This presentation discusses ancient commercial amphorae, wooden barrels and tea chests, as well as modern ocean containers, corrugated boxes and reusable pallets.
A critical examination of transit packaging technology throughout 4,000 years of history reveals universal principles. This presentation discusses ancient commercial amphorae, wooden barrels and tea chests, as well as modern ocean containers, corrugated boxes and reusable pallets.
The 'three R's' of sustainability are: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. In that exact order, with the goal to Reduce as the primary objective. The intent should be, to be efficient with the use of materials, to prevent waste and to conserve natural resources as much as possible. Recycling is often not an efficient process. Additionally, recycling industry has been struggling recently due to the drop in prices for recyclable goods and due to the difficulties in obtaining uncontaminated collection, so it should be considered as the last resort before discarding something in the waste (landfill). Therefore, packaging minimization should be the main goal. In order to do that, the Root Causes for the highest impact accidents that damage packaged goods need to be identified. Once that's done, anybody that is involved in shipping and handling boxes can work towards fixing these outlying. As mentioned, these are rare & preventable accidents that should not happen often. But currently all boxes have to be designed and supported to survive such high impact drops. This goes against the idea of efficiency and preventing waste.
The 'three R's' of sustainability are: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. In that exact order, with the goal to Reduce as the primary objective. The intent should be, to be efficient with the use of materials, to prevent waste and to conserve natural resources as much as possible. Recycling is often not an efficient process. Additionally, recycling industry has been struggling recently due to the drop in prices for recyclable goods and due to the difficulties in obtaining uncontaminated collection, so it should be considered as the last resort before discarding something in the waste (landfill). Therefore, packaging minimization should be the main goal. In order to do that, the Root Causes for the highest impact accidents that damage packaged goods need to be identified. Once that's done, anybody that is involved in shipping and handling boxes can work towards fixing these outlying. As mentioned, these are rare & preventable accidents that should not happen often. But currently all boxes have to be designed and supported to survive such high impact drops. This goes against the idea of efficiency and preventing waste.
This presentation provides results from a comprehensive data measurement study that analyzed the shock and impacts observed by two different sized packages in the single parcel distribution environment of Roche distribution in six countries within North America (N A), Europe (EU), Latin America (LATAM) and Asia. A total of six round-trips (equivalent to 12 one-way trips) shipments were conducted in each country. For the large package, the orientation of package during transit was also recorded in four countries. The orientation information can be very useful for evaluation of the performance of a passive thermal shipping system since the orientation of package can lead to a difference in performance.
The main challenges of modern supply chains are managing the volatility, adapting to the omni-channel consumer and becoming more sustainable. In any supply chain scenario palletized packaging plays a role, however, the boundary conditions are changing rapidly.  Mixed loads, stacked pallets, repacking, etc. are no longer the exception to enable producers managing the ever-increasing supply chain complexity.
 
The higher requirements on pallet handling puts more and more pressure on the stability of palletised corrugated packaging. Palletised corrugated packages should be stable in any supply chain to avoid logistic problems, health and safety hazards and product damage.
 
The traditional way to find out if the is a trial (and error) shipment or a test. With today’s potential risks and time pressure this is not sufficient anymore. Combining the results of scientific insights, intensive testing and practical experience enabled us to develop a predictive tool to assess the stability of a palletised load. The tool helps to increase the speed and risk assess the palletized load, a critical step in today's volatile supply chain.
The main challenges of modern supply chains are managing the volatility, adapting to the omni-channel consumer and becoming more sustainable. In any supply chain scenario palletized packaging plays a role, however, the boundary conditions are changing rapidly.  Mixed loads, stacked pallets, repacking, etc. are no longer the exception to enable producers managing the ever-increasing supply chain complexity.
 
The higher requirements on pallet handling puts more and more pressure on the stability of palletised corrugated packaging. Palletised corrugated packages should be stable in any supply chain to avoid logistic problems, health and safety hazards and product damage.
 
The traditional way to find out if the is a trial (and error) shipment or a test. With today’s potential risks and time pressure this is not sufficient anymore. Combining the results of scientific insights, intensive testing and practical experience enabled us to develop a predictive tool to assess the stability of a palletised load. The tool helps to increase the speed and risk assess the palletized load, a critical step in today's volatile supply chain.
Is a current test method valid? Are there other tests that could better represent a products end-use environment? How can existing test methods be compared to real world measurements? These questions are becoming more common in the testing industry. Creating the perfect replication of all the field environments a product may be exposed to is a time-consuming task, but undertesting a product can have severe repercussions in the future.
 
In this case study, a product has a known failure mode that occasionally occurs in the field, but never is replicated in the current laboratory testing methods. The overall goal is to generate a test that is more representative of the real-world and in turn, replicate the failure mode observed in the field. There are several comparisons completed throughout the study. First, the original test method comes into question as we compare the response of the product during vibration testing to the actual field recordings. Second, a new test is developed based on the input vibration of a variety of field environments the product is exposed to. Finally, the new test is validated by comparing the product’s vibration response to that of the field environment and replicating the same fatigue failure observed in the field via the new test in the laboratory.
Is a current test method valid? Are there other tests that could better represent a products end-use environment? How can existing test methods be compared to real world measurements? These questions are becoming more common in the testing industry. Creating the perfect replication of all the field environments a product may be exposed to is a time-consuming task, but undertesting a product can have severe repercussions in the future.
 
In this case study, a product has a known failure mode that occasionally occurs in the field, but never is replicated in the current laboratory testing methods. The overall goal is to generate a test that is more representative of the real-world and in turn, replicate the failure mode observed in the field. There are several comparisons completed throughout the study. First, the original test method comes into question as we compare the response of the product during vibration testing to the actual field recordings. Second, a new test is developed based on the input vibration of a variety of field environments the product is exposed to. Finally, the new test is validated by comparing the product’s vibration response to that of the field environment and replicating the same fatigue failure observed in the field via the new test in the laboratory.
For 20+ years stretch filmresearch has been focused on what takes place during the wrapping process, and primarily within the pre-stretch section.What happens on the pallet long-term? This study takes a look at long-term compression behavior over a wide range of pre and post-stretch levels. Do the old conventions hold up?
Containment force readings using a pull plate or similar tool are treated as a single force when in reality they are a combination of the compressive force (AKA wrapping force) and the stiffness (AKA stretch resistance) of the wrapped film on the load. Compression and stiffness each contribute to load stability but in different ways. Their contributions are dependent on the inherent vulnerability of the load to different failure modes. This study is a look at the roles of compression and stiffness as isolated variables and the balance required to stabilize a variety of loads with different stabilization requirements. 

Takeaways: What forces comprise “Containment Force” and how are they balanced during a pull plate test. - How to better understand a load’s inherent stability / failure vulnerability and the changing contribution requirements of compression and stiffness."
How Holistic Thinking Can Reveal Cost Savings, Sustainability and Sales Opportunities.
Brian has proudly served the Packaging Industry for over three decades, challenging our thinking, and bringing resources, insights and solutions to help packaging earn a “seat at the table” - in 2017, he stopped that Pursuit. Instead, he is bringing others to Packaging’s Table. Brian will challenge us again with insights and perspectives based on his firm, PTIS’s foresight-driven, 20 years leading Future of Packaging programs. You’ll be exposed to the PTIS Integrated Packaging Value Model, Good VUCA, the 4th Dimension of Package Design and examples of Digital Transformation changing the packaging world as we know it…and challenged to apply insights to your job to benefit you and your company.
Presentation will review results of new, original research conducted with Packaging World regarding Transport packaging needs and issues related to global growth, new supply chains and related challenges. Packaging World subscribers were surveyed to understand current and anticipated packaging, testing and design related issues and opportunities. You’ll want to hear the results, perspectives and insights from one of our industry leaders.
This presentation will outline & identify areas of package design development & testing involved for a clamp handled product.
This presentation will outline & identify areas of package design development & testing involved for a clamp handled product.
There are a large number of packaged products damaged in logistics. At the same time, however, a lot of waste of resources occurs because of excessive packaging protection to products. Thus, packaging assessment in laboratory is an important task, which can effectively protect products, optimize packaging and save resources. Focusing on the test evaluation technology of product transport packaging, the paper reports the latest research progress of Jinan Transport Packaging Group in the signal acquisition and analysis of random vibration in logistics, the simulation method of laboratory vibration signal and the accelerated vibration testing technology of transport packaging.
There are a large number of packaged products damaged in logistics. At the same time, however, a lot of waste of resources occurs because of excessive packaging protection to products. Thus, packaging assessment in laboratory is an important task, which can effectively protect products, optimize packaging and save resources. Focusing on the test evaluation technology of product transport packaging, the paper reports the latest research progress of Jinan Transport Packaging Group in the signal acquisition and analysis of random vibration in logistics, the simulation method of laboratory vibration signal and the accelerated vibration testing technology of transport packaging.
Packaged products are commonly shipped using a variety of vehicles types including truck, train, and airplane. Each type of vehicle has been thoroughly studied to understand the motion associated with each. Recently, motorcoach buses have been used to transport packaged products, however no published analysis of their motion is available. Greyhound Lines ships packages daily through their Package Express Service. There are over 2,700 hundred Greyhound Package Express headquarters around the country, and approximately 20 packages are shipped from every location daily. Amazon.com has also explored using bus transportation to ship packages and has filed a patent for this type of delivery under “Mobile Pickup Locations”. This study focuses on the collection and analysis of motorcoach motion with a goal of developing a comprehensive understanding of their vibration input to packaged products.With packaged products being shipped daily via motorcoach buses, vibration data from these vehicles can prove useful in package design. Once collected and analyzed, this data can be used for laboratory replication of bus vibration and the testing of products encountering this environment.
Packaged products are commonly shipped using a variety of vehicles types including truck, train, and airplane. Each type of vehicle has been thoroughly studied to understand the motion associated with each. Recently, motorcoach buses have been used to transport packaged products, however no published analysis of their motion is available.Greyhound Lines ships packages daily through their Package Express Service. There are over 2,700 hundred Greyhound Package Express headquarters around the country, and approximately 20 packages are shipped from every location daily. Amazon.com has also explored using bus transportation to ship packages and has filed a patent for this type of delivery under “Mobile Pickup Locations”. This study focuses on the collection and analysis of motorcoach motion with a goal of developing a comprehensive understanding of their vibration input to packaged products.With packaged products being shipped daily via motorcoach buses, vibration data from these vehicles can prove useful in package design. Once collected and analyzed, this data can be used for laboratory replication of bus vibration and the testing of products encountering this environment.
 Large retailers have become the dominant power in almost all supply chains. They have started to sets demands for packaging, both for compliance with their distribution system, as well as related to sustainability (e.g., Wal-Mart scorecard). Meeting the challenges of these new supply chains, and successfully balancing distribution requirements with marketing requirements and sustainability requirements is one of the great challenges of both brand owners and packaging suppliers. This presentation will use real business cases (mainly from Royal Philips Electronics) to illustrate how to meet those challenges.
 Large retailers have become the dominant power in almost all supply chains. They have started to sets demands for packaging, both for compliance with their distribution system, as well as related to sustainability (e.g., Wal-Mart scorecard). Meeting the challenges of these new supply chains, and successfully balancing distribution requirements with marketing requirements and sustainability requirements is one of the great challenges of both brand owners and packaging suppliers. This presentation will use real business cases (mainly from Royal Philips Electronics) to illustrate how to meet those challenges.
A generalized FEA model of wood pallets, measurements of packaging stiffness and the engineering principles of beam on an elastic foundation have been integrated into a model of the static compression interaction between pallet decks and packaged product. How this unit load design procedure can be used to reduce packaging cost, will be demonstrated with examples. 

Takeaways: Within unit loads the cost of the packaging is often 10 to 50 times more than the cost of the pallet. It will be demonstrated, how a redesign of the pallet can be used to significantly reduce the cost of the packaging on top of the pallet. Control of the pallet design used, is critical to achieving the 8 to 18% packaging cost reduction.
A model was developed to predict and compare the costs of using different size pallets in the supply chain between North East Asia and North America.  The efficiency of three (3) different but common pallet sizes was studied.  
 
These are:  
  • the 1200 x 1000mm pallet used commonly throughout the world,
  • the 1100 x 1100mm pallet used in Japan and Korea, and
  • the 1219 x 1016mm (40"x 48") pallet used in USA and Canada.     
Key decision variables in pallet size selection include floor space utilization of container or trailer, reusability of the pallet, labor cost of re-palletization in destination country, and the pallet deck area occupied by the packaged product.               
Examples from actual unit load performance failures will be described. Using the sometimes-tragic consequences of these failures, package and pallet designers will be reminded that safety is "job 1". The forensic procedures to determine the causes of these failures, will be described. The causes are typically classified as unit loads were miss-handled, improper unit load design, or a defective unit load design. Examples of each of these causes will be used to demonstrate how to operate safe unit load-based supply chains. Methods of accident prevention and mitigation will be described. This will include education, proper design procedures that include testing, use of standards, inspection procedures, and best practices for handling, storing, and shipping unitized products.
To meet the evolving expectations of consumers for low cost, quality and defect free products, delivered quickly and on time, in the exact quantities ordered, and to a convenient location; supply chains are extended internationally, they are multimodal, and both unitized and parcel in form.
To meet the evolving expectations of consumers for low cost, quality and defect free products, delivered quickly and on time, in the exact quantities ordered, and to a convenient location; supply chains are extended internationally, they are multimodal, and both unitized and parcel in form
In a global economy international product shipments have been a source of spreading invasive animal and plant species. The impact of these “invasives” are economic as well as a decline in human health and environmental quality. When international shipments of product are quarantined, the primary method of phytosanitary treatment is fumigation with methyl bromide. The pre-shipment and quarantine treatment of internationally shipped product is the second largest use of this fumigant in the US. Under international agreement the use of this ozone depleting and dangerous chemical is to terminate when an effective alternative treatment is identified. One targeted invasive, is the Mediterranean snail that has been detected in imported unit loads of packaged ceramic and marble tiles. The USDA Animal Plant Health and Inspection Service supported research at Virginia Tech to evaluate the use of steam and vacuum to heat sanitize the unitized and packaged tiles that were inoculated with this invasive snail species. The effect of steam and vacuum, using a 56 C for 30 minute treatment cycle, on snail morbidity and the properties of the tile, corrugated sleeves, shrink wrap, and gum labels was evaluated. The entire 775 kg unit load of tiles can be treated in about 50 minutes. Snail morbidity was 100%. By using a chamber design and vacuum, to control condensation and increase the speed of the treatment cycle, the physical and mechanical properties of the tile, paper and plastic packaging were not significantly altered by the treatment. The results indicate that this heat based treatment method can effectively sanitize certain packaged commodities that can tolerate temperatures in the 55 to 65 C.
 
In a global economy international product shipments have been a source of spreading invasive animal and plant species. The impact of these “invasives” are economic as well as a decline in human health and environmental quality. When international shipments of product are quarantined, the primary method of phytosanitary  treatment is fumigation with methyl bromide. The pre-shipment and quarantine treatment of internationally shipped product is the second largest use of this fumigant in the US. Under international agreement the use of this ozone depleting and dangerous chemical is to terminate when an effective alternative treatment is identified. One targeted invasive, is the Mediterranean snail that has been detected in imported unit loads of packaged ceramic and marble tiles. The USDA Animal Plant Health and Inspection Service supported research at Virginia Tech to evaluate the use of steam and vacuum to heat sanitize the unitized and packaged tiles that were inoculated with this invasive snail species. The effect of steam and vacuum, using a 56 C for 30 minute treatment cycle, on snail morbidity and the properties of the tile, corrugated sleeves, shrink wrap, and gum labels was evaluated. The entire 775 kg unit load of tiles can be treated in about 50 minutes. Snail morbidity was 100%. By using a chamber design and vacuum, to control condensation and increase the speed of the treatment cycle, the physical and mechanical properties of the tile, paper and plastic packaging were not significantly altered by the treatment. The results indicate that this heat based treatment method can effectively sanitize certain packaged commodities that can tolerate temperatures in the 55 to 65 C.
The presentation will describe the critical elements necessary for the consistent management of distribution networks from development and continuing throughout the life cycle of the product. The process includes development of user specifications and risk assessments that insure harmonization across the network for containers, lanes, and modes. The talk will highlight development of processes across the network for temperature qualification, lane qualification, and evaluation of impact on the product and life cycle management post commercialization.
Designing, building, and maintaining a cGMP-compliant biopharmaceutical supply chain is one of the greatest challenges facing the biopharmaceutical industry. Regulatory requirements include proving a selected Insulated Shipping Container (ISC) can repeatedly hold designed product loads in acceptable temperature range throughout its supply chain. This presentation on ISTA Standard 20 details the process and procedure for design, testing, and validation of ISCs.
Examining the results of a UK study in to the causes of damage in the FMCG supply chain. The paper also discusses the potential profit improvement potential of addressing the issue and the current parries to progress.
Examining the results of a UK study in to the causes of damage in the FMCG supply chain. The paper also discusses the potential profit improvement potential of addressing the issue and the current parries to progress.
For over 20 years, Matthew Wright traveled across the country selling packaging to businesses both large and small, watching everything you can imagine be made, and seeing firsthand the colossal shifts in industry that affect us still today. In this talk, Wright will discuss the evolution of the packaging industry, the challenges he encountered along the course of his career, and how new technology is helping companies manage packaging complexity and reduce waste by harnessing the power of digital specifications.
Compression performance design is a tried and true part of packaging science – or is it? The relationships, the performance indicators, the formulas and the factors – look at them again – for the first time. Is that factor really safe? WWMD – What Would McKee Do?
With increasing demands for cost-cutting and global awareness of sustainability, shrink-wrapped tray-based unit loads have become more common recently. This exposes the primary package to external loads, such as pre-tension of shrink wraps, tightness, pattern and number of revs of stretch films, stacking load, side compression load, incidental side impact load from transportation, etc. In addition to evaluating unit load stability and performance, computer simulation can go a step further to assess the potential primary package damage that could be caused by the exposed external loads. The simulation detects any potential issues of the primary package at an early stage of the development process, before physical samples are available, with commensurate reductions in risk, cost, and speed to market.
With increasing demands for cost-cutting and global awareness of sustainability, shrink-wrapped tray-based unit loads have become more common recently. This exposes the primary package to external loads, such as pre-tension of shrink wraps, tightness, pattern and number of revs of stretch films, stacking load, side compression load, incidental side impact load from transportation, etc. In addition to evaluating unit load stability and performance, computer simulation can go a step further to assess the potential primary package damage that could be caused by the exposed external loads. The simulation detects any potential issues of the primary package at an early stage of the development process, before physical samples are available, with commensurate reductions in risk, cost, and speed to market.
Today, the vibration with top-load test using a vibration tester provides a realistic simulation to test and evaluate the compression performance of the shipping container in the lab. However, the process for designers to design the container has never been investigated. The purpose of this study is to fill the above gap and research and develop a logical, quantitative and practical method and procedure to design a shipping container with required compression strength for vehicle stacking in small parcel express environment. Design examples based on the established method and procedure will be presented, and lab test results of these designs will be compared and discussed. 

Takeaways: A logical, quantitative and practical method and procedure to design a shipping container with required compression strength for vehicle stacking in small parcel express environment.