Abstract:
Various solutions for repairing and reinforcing containers are disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention provide patches or reinforcing members which may be conveniently and effectively adhered to a container to improve the structural integrity thereof, protect the contents of the container, and provide an aesthetically-pleasing repair/reinforcement of the container. A substantially-planar patch may be used to repair or reinforce a surface of a container, while patches for adhering to multiple surfaces of the container may be used to repair or reinforce edges or corners. The thickness of the patch may be substantially less than that of its other dimensions to provide a low-profile repair or reinforcement, thereby reducing subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching the patch on external objects. Additionally, the adhesive may bond the patch to the container to reduce separation and withstand loadings imparted to the container.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    Many items are damaged or lost each year as a result of damage to their shipping containers. Damage typically occurs during the numerous transfers of the shipping container between delivery vehicles and shipping/receiving locations, where each transfer subjects the shipping container to many types of damage. For example, shipping containers are often dropped and tossed during a transfer, which can cause ruptures, punctures, deformation and other types of damage. Additionally, contact with sharp objects during a transfer can rip, tear, puncture, or otherwise damage the shipping container. 
         [0002]    In an attempt to salvage the shipping container for the remainder of the delivery, packing tape is often applied to the damaged area. However, packing ape is prone to separation from the outside of most shipping containers and is not mechanically robust (e.g., easily sliced, torn, punctured, deflected, etc.). As such, the application of packing tape to a damaged shipping container fails to improve the structural integrity of the shipping container, and also fails to protect the contents of the shipping container. Further, packing tape does not produce an aesthetically-pleasing repair, which is important to many recipients and reflects poorly on both the carrier and the sender. 
         [0003]    Alternatively, some shippers repackage the goods into a new container when the old container becomes damaged. However, this is a costly solution as repackaging is labor intensive and new shipping containers can be expensive. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Accordingly, a need exists to improve the structural integrity of damaged shipping containers. A need also exists to protect the contents of damaged shipping containers. Additionally, a need exists to provide aesthetically-pleasing and economical repairs for damaged shipping containers. Embodiments of the present invention provide novel solutions to these needs and others as described below. 
         [0005]    Embodiments of the present invention are directed to various solutions for repairing and reinforcing containers. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide patches or reinforcing members which may be conveniently and effectively adhered to a container (e.g., a shipping container, storage container, display container, etc.) to improve the structural integrity thereof, protect the contents of the container, and provide an aesthetically-pleasing repair/reinforcement of the container. A substantially-planar patch may be used to repair or reinforce a surface of a container, while patches for adhering to multiple surfaces of the container may be used to repair or reinforce edges or corners. The thickness of the patch may be substantially less than that of its other dimensions to provide a low-profile repair or reinforcement, thereby reducing subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching the patch on external objects. Additionally, the adhesive may bond the patch to the container to reduce separation and withstand loadings (e.g., tensile, compression, impact, etc.) imparted to the container, where the adhesive may comprise a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a thermoplastic adhesive, a contact adhesive, a drying adhesive, a chemical-curing adhesive, or a photochemical-curing adhesive. Further, the patches may come in various shapes, sizes, colors, etc., depending upon the damage and/or characteristics (e.g., color, material, shape, size, etc.) of the container to be repaired or reinforced. 
         [0006]    In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a substantially planar structural member comprising a surface for coupling with a container. Adhesive is disposed on the surface for coupling the substantially planar structural member to the container. The substantially planar structural member is operable to overlap a damaged portion of the container and further operable to improve the structural integrity of the container. The adhesive may comprise at least one of dispersed particles and reinforcing fibers. Further, at least one edge of the substantially planar structural member may comprise a beveled surface (e.g., to reduce subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching the patch on external objects). The apparatus may also include a removable backing disposed on the adhesive for removal prior to application to the container. 
         [0007]    In another embodiment, an apparatus includes a structural member comprising at least one surface for coupling with at least two surfaces of a container. Adhesive is disposed on the at least one surface for coupling the structural member to the container. The structural member is operable to overlap a damaged portion of the container and further operable to improve the structural integrity of the container. The damaged portion may comprise an edge of the container. Alternatively, the damaged portion may comprise a corner of the container. The adhesive may comprise at least one of dispersed particles and reinforcing fibers. Further, at least one edge of the structural member may comprise a beveled surface (e.g., to reduce subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching the patch on external objects). The apparatus may also include a removable backing disposed on the adhesive for removal prior to application to the container. 
         [0008]    In yet another embodiment, a container includes a housing operable to store one or more items therein, where the housing includes at least one portion. A patch is coupled to the housing and overlaps the portion for improving the structural integrity of the housing, wherein the patch comprises adhesive disposed on a structural member for coupling the structural member to at least one surface of the housing. The portion may comprise a damaged portion of the housing. The portion may include at least one of a surface, an edge, and a corner of the housing. Additionally, the structural member may include at least one bend for conforming to the housing. At least one edge of the structural member may include a beveled surface. And further, the housing may include at least one of cardboard, polymer, ligneous material, and a non-metallic material. 
         [0009]    And in another embodiment, an apparatus includes a structural member comprising at least one surface for coupling with at least two surfaces of a container. Adhesive is disposed on the at least one surface for coupling the structural member to the container. The structural member is operable to overlap a portion of the container and further operable to improve the structural integrity of the container. The portion may comprise an edge of the container. Alternatively, the portion may comprise a corner of the container. Further, at least one edge of the structural member may comprise a beveled surface (e.g., to reduce subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching the patch on external objects). The apparatus may also include a removable backing disposed on the adhesive for removal prior to application to the container. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0010]    The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements. 
           [0011]      FIG. 1A  shows an exemplary surface patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1B  shows an exemplary surface patch with an adhesive backing for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0013]      FIG. 2  shows an exemplary surface patch applied to a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0014]      FIG. 3A  shows a cross-section of an exemplary surface patch applied to a surface of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0015]      FIG. 3B  shows a cross-section of an exemplary surface patch applied to a punctured surface of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0016]      FIG. 4  shows a cross-section of an exemplary beveled edge of a patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 5  shows an exemplary edge patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0018]      FIG. 6  shows an exemplary edge patch applied to a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 7A  shows a cross-section of an exemplary patch applied to an edge or corner of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 7B  shows a cross-section of an exemplary patch applied to a punctured edge or corner of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 8A  shows exemplary edge patches for supporting straps applied to a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0022]      FIG. 8B  shows exemplary edge patches for supporting straps applied to multiple containers in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  shows an exemplary corner patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  shows an exemplary corner patch applied to a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0025]      FIG. 11A  shows exemplary corner patches for supporting straps applied to a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 11B  shows exemplary corner patches for supporting straps applied to multiple containers in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0027]    Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the present invention will be discussed in conjunction with the following embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments alone. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents which may be included with the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and the like have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention. 
         [0028]      FIG. 1A  shows an exemplary surface patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 1A , exemplary surface patch  100  comprises structural member  110  with surface  115  for mating with a surface (e.g., a damaged surface, weakened surface, surface to be reinforced, etc.) of a shipping container, storage container, display container, or other container. Structural member  110  may be substantially flat in one embodiment. Adhesive  120  is disposed on surface  115  for bonding structural member  110  to the container, thereby reinforcing and improving the structural integrity of the container (e.g., by limiting movement of one or more portions of the container with respect to one another in one or more directions). Additionally, patch  100  may at least partially cover damaged areas to protect the contents of the container from damage (e.g., from external objects that may penetrate the container, etc.) and/or loss (e.g., through openings created by damage to the container). Further, by at least partially concealing damage to a container, patch  100  may improve the aesthetics of a damaged container. 
         [0029]    As depicted in  FIG. 1A , patch  100  may comprise a low-profile for reducing subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching patch  100  on external objects. For example, height or thickness  111  of patch  100  may be substantially less than width  112  and/or length  113 . As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter can pass over or by patch  100  instead of catching or snagging patch  100 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  100 ) and/or further damage the container. 
         [0030]    Structural member  110  may comprise paper-based material (e.g., cardboard, cardstock, pressboard, etc.), ligneous material (e.g., wood, faux wood, etc.), metal, polymer, composite material (e.g., sheet molded composite (SMC), fiber reinforced composites, etc.), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, structural member  110  may comprise any material providing physical properties (e.g., tensile strength, impact strength, hardness, flexibility, brittleness, etc.) sufficient for withstanding various types of loadings (e.g., tensile, compression, impact, etc.) imparted to the container (e.g., during transportation, handling, etc.). 
         [0031]    Structural member  110  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors, etc., thereby offering convenient and effective means for repairing or reinforcing various types of containers regardless of appearance and/or type/extent of damage, weakening, etc. In one embodiment, the color scheme of member  110  may match, coordinate with, etc., one or more containers. For example, member  110  may comprise a brown color for application to cardboard containers. Alternatively, member  110  may comprise a predetermined color scheme (e.g., specified by users, etc.). Additionally, patch  100  may comprise one or more areas designated for advertising or other communications. For example, structural member  110  may comprise the name, logo, colors, etc., of a person or entity applying the patch, thereby providing means for an aesthetic repair/reinforcement as well as an advertising opportunity for the user of the patch, a third-party, etc. And in other embodiments, patch  100  may provide one or more areas for messages (e.g., from a carrier repairing or reinforcing a container to the recipient of the shipping container, to customers for informational or advertising purposes, etc.) to be written. 
         [0032]    As shown in  FIG. 1A , adhesive  120  may comprise any adhesive capable of bonding structural member to  110  to a container, where the bond is sufficient to withstand loadings imparted to the container (e.g., during transportation, handling, etc.). For example, adhesive  120  may comprise a pressure-sensitive adhesive which may bond to the container upon contact with patch  100  and/or upon application of pressure to patch  100  to press it against the container. In one embodiment, HB Fuller HL-2203 may be used to adhere the patch (e.g.,  100 , etc.) to the container. Alternatively, a thermoplastic adhesive (e.g., hot melt adhesives which harden upon cooling, etc.) may be used to bond structural member  110  to the container. Adhesive  120  may comprise a contact adhesive which is operable to bond to an adhesive disposed on the container in one embodiment. And in another embodiment, adhesive  120  may comprise a drying adhesive, which may, for example, harden as a solvent of the adhesive evaporates. 
         [0033]    Adhesive  120  may alternatively comprise a chemical-curing adhesive which may bond to the container using a chemical reaction (e.g., using a chemical catalyst, thermal catalyst, etc.). And in another embodiment, adhesive  120  may comprise a photochemical-curing adhesive which cures upon exposure to certain types of light (e.g., UV, etc.). 
         [0034]    As shown in  FIG. 1A , adhesive  120  may be applied immediately before bonding structural member  110  to the container. For example, a patch (e.g.,  100 ) may be selected upon identifying a container which is damaged or in need of reinforcement, where the dimensions or other attributes of the patch (e.g.,  100 ) may be determined based upon the extent, size or other characteristics of the damaged area or area to be reinforced. Alternatively, the adhesive (e.g.,  120 ) may be applied to the structural member (e.g.,  110 ) well before the time of application (e.g., during manufacture of patch  100 ). For example, a backing may be applied to the adhesive (e.g.,  120 ) during manufacture, where the backing  10  may be removed at the time of application. In another embodiment, the adhesive may be applied during manufacture in an uncured state such that the adhesive (e.g.,  120 ) may be catalyzed or cured (e.g., subjected to heat, light, chemicals, etc.) at the time of application. 
         [0035]    In one embodiment, additives or reinforcing materials may be added to adhesive  120  for improving one or more physical properties of patch  100 . For example, adhesive  120  may comprise dispersed particles. Alternatively, reinforcing fibers (e.g., polymer, Kevlar, carbon, glass, etc.) may be disposed in adhesive  120 , thereby forming a composite material with an adhesive matrix surrounding the reinforcing fibers. And in another embodiment, thin sheets of rigid materials (e.g., rigid plastics, metals, etc.) may be applied to structural member  110  along with adhesive  120 . As such, embodiments provide convenient and effective means for varying the physical properties of patch  100  by adjusting the composition of adhesive  120  in addition to or in place of changing attributes of structural member  110  as discussed above. 
         [0036]    Although  FIG. 1A  depicts structural member  110  and adhesive  120  with a specific size, shape, color, etc., it should be appreciated that structural member  110  and adhesive  120  may comprise alternative sizes, shapes, colors, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, although adhesive  120  is depicted in  FIG. 1A  as evenly and contiguously covering surface  115 , it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may unevenly and/or non-contiguously cover surface  115  in other embodiments. Additionally, although  FIG. 1A  depicts adhesive  120  as covering surface  115  without gaps, holes, etc., it should be appreciated that one or more portions of surface  115  may not be covered by adhesive  120  in other embodiments. 
         [0037]      FIG. 1B  shows exemplary surface patch  100  with an adhesive backing for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 1B , adhesive backing  130  may cover adhesive  120 , where backing  130  may be removed (e.g., peeled off, removed, etc.) from patch  100  prior to application of the patch (e.g.,  100 ) to a container. Backing  130  may reduce or prevent premature or unintended application of the patch to objects. Alternatively, backing  130  may reduce or prevent premature or unintended curing of adhesive  120  (e.g., prior to application of patch  100  to the container). 
         [0038]      FIG. 2  shows exemplary surface patch  100  applied to container  210  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Container  210  may comprise a shipping container, storage container, display container, or other container. As shown in  FIG. 2 , container  210  comprises area  220  on surface  215 . Area  220  may comprise a rupture, puncture, defamation, or other damage/weakening to surface  215 . Alternatively, area  220  may comprise an area needing reinforcement. To repair or reinforce container  210 , patch  100  may be applied to surface  215  of container  210  within the area outlined by dashed lines  230 . As such, patch  100  may bond to portions of surface  215  surrounding area  220  to improve the structural integrity of container  210 . Additionally, patch  100  may cover and conceal area  220  to protect the contents of container  210 , as well as improve the aesthetics thereof. 
         [0039]    Container  210  may comprise a housing for storing and/or transporting one or more items, where the housing may comprise any material sufficient to carry and/or protect contents of the container. For example, container  210  may comprise cardboard in one embodiment. Alternatively, container  210  may comprise a polymer, ligneous material, non-metallic material, metallic material, or other material in other embodiments. 
         [0040]    Although container  210  is depicted with a specific shape, size with respect to area  220  and patch  100 , color, etc., it should be appreciated that container  210  may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that area  220  may comprise different shapes and/or sizes in other embodiments. It should also be appreciated that patch  100  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors (e.g., to match, coordinate with, etc. container  210 ), etc. in other embodiments. And although not depicted in  FIG. 2 , it should be appreciated that one or more surfaces of patch  100  (e.g., those surfaces visible after application to container  210 ) may comprise text, logos, colors, etc. as discussed above. 
         [0041]      FIG. 3A  shows cross-section  300 A of an exemplary surface patch applied to a surface of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 3A , area  220  may comprise a deformation or indentation in surface  215  of container  210 . Structural member  110  is bonded to surface  215  of container  210  by adhesive  120 , thereby covering area  220 . As such, container  210  may be strengthened to compensate for any weakening in area  220 . Additionally, where the damage to container  210  (e.g., in area  220 ) increases the susceptibility of the contents of the container to subsequent damage or loss, structural member  110  applied to surface  215  may improve the safety and/or security of the contents by at least partially covering area  220 . Further, by covering area  220 , structural member  110  may also improve the aesthetics of container  210 . 
         [0042]    Although  FIG. 3A  depicts structural member  110  applied to container  210  with a specific type of damage or weakening, it should be appreciated that structural member  110  may be applied to other types or forms of container damage/weakening in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that structural member  110 , adhesive  120 , container  210 , or a combination thereof, may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may be alternatively disposed (e.g., with gaps, voids, bubbles, etc.) between structural member  110  and container  210  in other embodiments, 
         [0043]      FIG. 3B  shows a cross-section  300 B of an exemplary surface patch applied to a punctured surface of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 3B , area  220  may comprise a puncture in surface  215  of container  210 . Structural member  110  is bonded to surface  215  of container  210  by adhesive  120 , thereby covering area  220 . As such, container  210  may be strengthened to compensate for any weakening in area  220 . Additionally, application of structural member  110  to surface  215  may improve the safety and/or security of the contents by at least partially covering area  220 . Further, by covering area  220 , structural member  110  may also improve the aesthetics of container  210 . 
         [0044]    Although  FIG. 3B  depicts structural member  110  applied to container  210  with a specific type of damage (e.g., a puncture), it should be appreciated that structural member  110  may be applied to other types or forms of container damage (e.g., a rupture, etc.) in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that structural member  110 , adhesive  120 , container  210 , or a combination thereof, may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may be alternatively disposed (e.g., with bubbles or voids, to plug the punctured area, etc.) between structural member  110  and container  210  in other embodiments. 
         [0045]      FIG. 4  shows cross-section  400  of an exemplary beveled edge of a patch for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 4 , structural member  110  of patch  100  may comprise beveled surface  410 , which provides a more streamlined transition between top surface  420  of structural member  110  and surface  215  of container  210 . As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter during the course of a delivery may pass over or by patch  100  instead of catching or snagging patch  100 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  100 ) and/or further damage to the container (e.g.,  210 ). 
         [0046]    Although  FIG. 4  depicts structural member  110 , beveled surface  410 , adhesive  120 , and container  210  with specific shapes, sizes and colors, it should be appreciated that one or more of these elements (e.g.,  100 ,  410 ,  120 ,  210 , etc.) may comprise alternative shapes, sizes, colors, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, although surface  410  is beveled in  FIG. 4 , it should be appreciated that structural member  110  may comprise one or more different features (e.g., a fillet, radius, etc.) in other embodiments. 
         [0047]      FIG. 5  shows exemplary edge patch  500  for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 5 , exemplary edge patch  500  comprises structural member  510  with surfaces  515  and  517  for mating with surfaces (e.g., damaged surfaces, weakened surfaces, surfaces surrounding an area to be reinforced, etc.) of a container. Structural member  510  comprises bend  520  for conforming to an edge of a damaged container. Adhesive  120  is disposed on surfaces  515  and  517  for bonding structural member  510  to the container, thereby reinforcing and improving the structural integrity of the container (e.g., by limiting movement of one or more portions of the container with respect to one another in one or more directions). Additionally, patch  500  may at least partially cover damaged areas to protect the contents of the container from damage (e.g., from external objects that may penetrate the container, etc.) and/or loss (e.g., through openings created by damage to the container). Further, by at least partially concealing damage to the container, patch  500  may improve the aesthetics of the damaged container. 
         [0048]    As depicted in  FIG. 5 , patch  500  may comprise a low-profile for reducing subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching patch  500  on external objects. For example, heights or thicknesses  511   a  and/or  511   b  of patch  500  may be substantially less than other dimensions (e.g.,  512 ,  513 ,  514 , etc.) of patch  500 . As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter during the course of a delivery may pass over or by patch  500  instead of catching or snagging patch  500 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  500 ) and/or further damage the container. 
         [0049]    Additionally, patch  500  may comprise one or more beveled, filleted, or otherwise contoured edges (e.g., similar to surface  410  depicted in  FIG. 4 ) for providing a more streamlined transition between a top surface of structural member  510  (e.g., opposing surfaces  515  and/or  517 ) and a container surface to which patch  500  is applied. As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter during the course of a delivery may pass over or by patch  500  instead of catching or snagging patch  500 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  500 ) and/or further damage to the container. 
         [0050]    Structural member  510  may comprise paper-based material (e.g., cardboard, cardstock, pressboard, etc.), ligneous material (e.g., wood, faux wood, etc.), metal, polymer, composite material (e.g., sheet molded composite (SMC), fiber reinforced composites, etc.), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, structural member  510  may comprise any material providing physical properties (e.g., tensile strength, impact strength, hardness, flexibility, brittleness, etc.) sufficient for withstanding various types of loadings (e.g., tensile, compression, impact, etc.) imparted to the container (e.g., during transportation, handling, etc.). 
         [0051]    Structural member  510  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors, etc., thereby offering convenient and effective means for repairing or reinforcing various types of containers regardless of appearance and/or type/extent of damage, weakening, etc. In one embodiment, the color scheme of member  510  may match, coordinate with, etc., one or more containers. For example, member  510  may comprise a brown color for application to cardboard containers. Alternatively, member  510  may comprise a predetermined color scheme (e.g., specified by users, etc.). Additionally, patch  500  may comprise one or more areas designated for advertising or other communications. For example, structural member  510  may comprise the name, logo, colors, etc., of a person or entity applying the patch, thereby providing means for an aesthetic repair/reinforcement as well as an advertising opportunity for the user of the patch, a third-party, etc. And in other embodiments, patch  500  may provide one or more areas for messages (e.g., from a carrier repairing or reinforcing a container to the recipient of the shipping container, to customers for informational or advertising purposes, etc.) to be written. 
         [0052]    Although  FIG. 5  depicts adhesive  120  with a specific size, shape, color, etc., it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may comprise alternative shapes, sizes, colors, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, although adhesive  120  is depicted in  FIG. 5  as evenly and contiguously covering surfaces  515  and  517 , it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may unevenly and/or non-contiguously cover surfaces  515  and/or  517  in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 5  depicts adhesive  120  as covering surfaces  515  and  517  without gaps, holes, etc., it should be appreciated that one or more portions of surfaces  515  and  517  may not be covered by adhesive  120  in other embodiments. Further, although  FIG. 5  does not show an adhesive backing applied to adhesive  120  (e.g., similar to patch  100  as depicted in  FIG. 1B ), it should be appreciated that an adhesive backing (e.g., similar to  130  of  FIG. 1B ) may be applied to adhesive  120  of patch  500  in other embodiments. 
         [0053]    Although  FIG. 5  depicts structural member  510  with a sharp bend (e.g.,  520 ), it should be appreciated that surfaces  515  and  517  may be alternatively joined (e.g., with a radius, with multiple bends, etc.) in other embodiments. It should also be appreciated that surfaces  515  and/or  517  may be alternatively oriented with respect to one another in other embodiments. 
         [0054]      FIG. 6  shows exemplary edge patch  600  applied to container  610  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Container  610  may comprise a shipping container, storage container, display container, or other container. As shown in  FIG. 6 , container  610  comprises area  620  along edge  613  of surfaces  615  and  617 . Area  620  may comprise a rupture, puncture, defamation, or other damage to edge  613 . Alternatively, area  620  may comprise an area needing reinforcement. To repair or reinforce container  610 , patch  500  may be applied to surfaces  615  and  617  of container  610  within the area outlined by dashed lines  630 . As such, patch  500  may bond to portions of surfaces  615  and  617  surrounding area  620  to improve the structural integrity of container  610 . Additionally, patch  500  may cover and conceal area  620  to protect the contents of container  610 , as well as improve the aesthetics thereof. 
         [0055]    Container  610  may comprise a housing for storing and/or transporting one or more items, where the housing may comprise any material sufficient to carry and/or protect contents of the container. For example, container  610  may comprise cardboard in one embodiment. Alternatively, container  610  may comprise a polymer, ligneous material, non-metallic material, metallic material, or other material in other embodiments. 
         [0056]    Although container  610  is depicted with a specific shape, size with respect to area  620  and patch  500 , color, etc., it should be appreciated that container  610  may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that area  620  may comprise different shapes and/or sizes in other embodiments. It should also be appreciated that patch  500  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors (e.g., to match, coordinate with, etc. container  610 ), etc. in other embodiments. And although not depicted in  FIG. 6 , it should be appreciated that one or more surfaces of patch  500  (e.g., those surfaces visible after application to container  610 ) may comprise text, logos, colors, etc. as discussed above. 
         [0057]      FIG. 7A  shows cross-section  700 A of an exemplary patch applied to an edge or corner of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 7A , area  620  may comprise a deformation or indentation (e.g., along edge  613 , a corner comprising edge  613 , etc.) of surfaces  615  and/or  617  of container  610 . Surfaces  515  and  517  of structural member  510  are bonded to surfaces  615  and  617  of container  610 , respectively, by adhesive  120 , thereby covering area  620 . As such, container  610  may be strengthened to compensate for any weakening in area  620 . Additionally, where the damage to container  610  (e.g., in area  620 ) increases the susceptibility of the contents of the container to subsequent damage or loss, structural member  510  applied to surfaces  615  and/or  617  may improve the safety and/or security of the contents by at least partially covering area  620 . Further, by covering area  620 , structural member  510  may also improve the aesthetics of container  610 . 
         [0058]    Although  FIG. 7A  depicts structural member  510  applied to container  610  with a specific type of damage, it should be appreciated that structural member  510  may be applied to other types or forms of container damage in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that structural member  510 , adhesive  120 , container  610 , or a combination thereof, may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may be alternatively disposed (e.g., with gaps, voids, bubbles, etc.) between structural member  510  and container  610  in other embodiments. 
         [0059]      FIG. 7B  shows cross-section  700 B of an exemplary patch applied to a punctured edge or corner of a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 7B , area  620  may comprise a puncture (e.g., along edge  613 , a corner comprising edge  613 , etc.) of surfaces  615  and/or surface  617  of container  610 . Surfaces  515  and  517  of structural member  510  are bonded to surfaces  615  and  617  of container  610 , respectively, by adhesive  120 , thereby covering area  620 . As such, container  610  may be strengthened to compensate for any weakening in area  620 . Additionally, application of structural member  510  to surfaces  615  and/or  617  may improve the safety and/or security of the contents by at least partially covering area  620 . Further, by covering area  620 , structural member  510  may also improve the aesthetics of container  610 . 
         [0060]    Although  FIG. 7B  depicts structural member  510  applied to container  610  with a specific type of damage (e.g., a puncture), it should be appreciated that structural member  510  may be applied to other types or forms of container damage (e.g., a rupture, etc.) in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that structural member  510 , adhesive  120 , container  610 , or a combination thereof, may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may be alternatively disposed (e.g., with bubbles or voids, to plug the punctured area, etc.) between structural member  510  and container  610  in other embodiments. 
         [0061]      FIG. 8A  shows exemplary edge patches  500   a - 500   c  for supporting straps applied to container  610  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, one or more of patches  500   a - 500   c  may be implemented in accordance with patch  500  of  FIG. 5 . And in other embodiments, one or more of patches  500   a - 500   c  may be applied without adhesive (e.g.,  120 ). 
         [0062]    After application of the patches (e.g.,  500 ,  500   a - 500   c , etc.) to container  610 , straps  810  and  820  (e.g., comprising a polymer, metal, etc.) may be applied over the patches (e.g.,  500 ,  500   a - 500   c , etc.). It should be appreciated that straps  810  and  820  may be applied to strengthen container  610 , to secure container  610  to another object, etc. As such, the patches (e.g.,  500 ,  500   a - 500   c , etc.) may comprise dimensions (e.g., thicknesses  511   a ,  511   b , etc.) and/or compositions for providing physical properties sufficient to withstand straps  810  and/or  820 . 
         [0063]    Although  FIG. 8A  depicts only three patches (e.g.,  500   a - 500   c ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of patches may be used in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  500   a - 500   c ) may be alternatively positioned on container  610  in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 8A  depicts only two straps (e.g.,  810  and  820 ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of straps may be applied to container  610  in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that straps (e.g.,  810 ,  820 , etc.) applied to container  610  may be alternatively positioned in other embodiments. 
         [0064]      FIG. 8B  shows exemplary edge patches  500   a - 500   c  for supporting straps applied to multiple containers  610   a - 610   b  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 8B , patches  500   a - 500   c  may function similarly when applied to multiple containers (e.g.,  610   a  and  610   b  as depicted in  FIG. 8B ) as when they are applied to a single container (e.g.,  610  as depicted in  FIG. 8A ). It should be appreciated that straps  810  and  820  may be applied to containers  610   a  and  610   b  to secure them to one another, to secure them to another object, etc. Thus, as described above with respect to  FIG. 8A , the patches (e.g.,  500 ,  500   a - 500   c , etc.) may comprise dimensions (e.g., thicknesses  511   a ,  511   b , etc.) and/or compositions for providing physical properties sufficient to withstand straps  810  and/or  820 . 
         [0065]    Although  FIG. 8B  depicts only three patches (e.g.,  500   a - 500   c ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of patches may be used in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  500   a - 500   c ) may be alternatively positioned on the containers (e.g.,  610   a ,  610   b , etc.) in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 8B  depicts only two straps (e.g.,  810  and  820 ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of straps may be applied to the containers (e.g.,  610   a ,  610   b , etc.) in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that the straps (e.g.,  810 ,  820 , etc.) applied to the containers (e.g.,  610   a ,  610   b , etc.) may be alternatively positioned in other embodiments. And although  FIG. 8B  depicts only two containers (e.g.,  610   a  and  610   b ), it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  500 ,  500   a - 500   c , etc.) and straps (e.g.,  810 ,  820 , etc.) may be applied to more than two containers in other embodiments. 
         [0066]      FIG. 9  shows exemplary corner patch  900  for repairing or reinforcing a container in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 9 , exemplary corner patch  900  comprises structural member  910  with surfaces  915 ,  917  and  919  for mating with surfaces (e.g., damaged surfaces, weakened surfaces, surfaces surrounding an area to be reinforced, etc.) of a container (e.g., as depicted in  FIGS. 7A  and/or  7 B). Structural member  910  comprises bends  920 ,  930  and  940  for conforming to a corner of a damaged container. Adhesive  120  is disposed on surfaces  915 ,  917  and  919  for bonding structural member  910  to the container, thereby reinforcing and improving the structural integrity of the damaged area of the container (e.g., by limiting movement of one or more portions of the container with respect to one another in one or more directions). Additionally, patch  900  may at least partially cover damaged areas to protect the contents of the container from damage (e.g., from external objects that may penetrate the container, etc.) and/or loss (e.g., through openings created by damage to the container). Further, by at least partially concealing damage to the container, patch  900  may improve the aesthetics of the damaged container. 
         [0067]    As depicted in  FIG. 9 , patch  900  may comprise a low-profile for reducing subsequent damage to the container caused by snagging or catching patch  900  on external objects. For example, heights or thicknesses  911   a ,  911   b ,  911   c , or a combination thereof, may be substantially less than other dimensions (e.g.,  912 ,  913 ,  914 , etc.) of patch  900 . As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter during the course of a delivery may pass over or by patch  900  instead of catching or snagging patch  900 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  900 ) and/or further damage the container. 
         [0068]    Additionally, patch  900  may comprise one or more beveled, filleted, or otherwise contoured edges (e.g., similar to surface  410  depicted in  FIG. 4 ) for providing a more streamlined transition between a top surface of structural member  910  (e.g., opposing surfaces  915 ,  917 ,  919 , or a combination thereof) and a container surface to which patch  900  is applied. As such, external objects (e.g., rollers or sorting/routing mechanisms at shipping/receiving locations, floors or features of delivery vehicles, other containers, etc.) that the container may encounter during the course of a delivery may pass over or by patch  900  instead of catching or snagging patch  900 , thereby reducing damage to the patch (e.g.,  900 ) and/or further damage to the container. 
         [0069]    Structural member  910  may comprise paper-based material (e.g., cardboard, cardstock, pressboard, etc.), ligneous material (e.g., wood, faux wood, etc.), metal, polymer, composite material (e.g., sheet molded composite (SMC), fiber reinforced composites, etc.), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, structural member  910  may comprise any material providing physical properties (e.g., tensile strength, impact strength, hardness, flexibility, brittleness, etc.) sufficient for withstanding various types of loadings (e.g., tensile, compression, impact, etc.) imparted to the container (e.g., during transportation, handling, etc.). 
         [0070]    Structural member  910  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors, etc., thereby offering convenient and effective means for repairing or reinforcing various types of containers regardless of appearance and/or type/extent of damage, weakening, etc. In one embodiment, the color scheme of member  910  may match, coordinate with, etc., one or more containers. For example, member  910  may comprise a brown color for application to cardboard containers. Alternatively, member  510  may comprise a predetermined color scheme (e.g., specified by users, etc.). Additionally, patch  900  may comprise one or more areas designated for advertising or other communications. For example, structural member  910  may comprise the name, logo, colors, etc., of a person or entity applying the patch, thereby providing means for an aesthetic repair/reinforcement as well as an advertising opportunity for the user of the patch, a third-party, etc. And in other embodiments, patch  900  may provide one or more areas for messages (e.g., from a carrier repairing or reinforcing a container to the recipient of the shipping container, to customers for informational or advertising purposes, etc.) to be written. 
         [0071]    Although  FIG. 9  depicts adhesive  120  with a specific size, shape, color, etc., it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may comprise alternative shapes, sizes, colors, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, although adhesive  120  is depicted in  FIG. 9  as evenly and contiguously covering surfaces  915 ,  917  and  919 , it should be appreciated that adhesive  120  may unevenly and/or non-contiguously cover surfaces  915 ,  917 ,  919 , or a combination thereof, in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 9  depicts adhesive  120  as covering surfaces  915 ,  917  and  919  without gaps, holes, etc., it should be appreciated that one or more portions of surfaces  915 ,  917  and  919  may not be covered by adhesive  120  in other embodiments. Further, although  FIG. 9  does not show an adhesive backing applied to adhesive  120  (e.g., similar to patch  100  as depicted in  FIG. 1B ), it should be appreciated that an adhesive backing (e.g., similar to  130  of  FIG. 1B ) may be applied to adhesive  120  of patch  900  in other embodiments. 
         [0072]    Although  FIG. 9  depicts structural member  910  with sharp bends (e.g.,  920 - 940 ), it should be appreciated that surfaces  915 ,  917 ,  919  or a combination thereof, may be alternatively joined (e.g., with a radius, with multiple bends, etc.) in other embodiments. It should also be appreciated that surfaces  915 ,  917 ,  919 , or a combination thereof, may be alternatively oriented with respect to one another in other embodiments. 
         [0073]      FIG. 10  shows exemplary corner patch  900  applied to container  1010  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Container  1010  may comprise a shipping container, storage container, display container, or other container. As shown in  FIG. 10 , container  1010  comprises area  1020  which may comprise a rupture, puncture (e.g., as depicted in  FIG. 7B ), defamation (e.g., as depicted in  FIG. 7A ), or other damage to a corner. Alternatively, area  1020  may comprise an area needing reinforcement. To repair or reinforce container  1010 , patch  900  may be applied to surfaces (e.g.,  1015 ,  1017  and the surface opposing surface  1019  and not shown in  FIG. 10 ) of container  1010  within the area outlined by dashed lines  1030 . As such, patch  900  may bond to portions of the surfaces (e.g.,  1015 ,  1017  and the surface opposing surface  1019  and not shown in  FIG. 10 ) surrounding area  1020  to improve the structural integrity of container  1010 . Additionally, patch  900  may cover and conceal area  1020  to protect the contents of container  1010 , as well as improve the aesthetics thereof. 
         [0074]    Container  1010  may comprise a housing for storing and/or transporting one or more items, where the housing may comprise any material sufficient to carry and/or protect contents of the container. For example, container  1010  may comprise cardboard in one embodiment. Alternatively, container  1010  may comprise a polymer, ligneous material, non-metallic material, metallic material, or other material in other embodiments. 
         [0075]    Although container  1010  is depicted with a specific shape, size with respect to area  1020  and patch  900 , color, etc., it should be appreciated that container  1010  may be alternatively shaped, sized, colored, etc., in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that area  1020  may comprise different shapes and/or sizes in other embodiments. It should also be appreciated that patch  900  may comprise different shapes, sizes, colors (e.g., to match, coordinate with, etc. container  1010 ), etc. in other embodiments. And although not depicted in  FIG. 10 , it should be appreciated that one or more surfaces of patch  900  (e.g., those surfaces visible after application to container  1010 ) may comprise text, logos, colors, etc. as discussed above. 
         [0076]      FIG. 11A  shows exemplary corner patches  900   a - 900   d  for supporting straps applied to container  1010  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, one or more of patches  900   a - 900   d  may be implemented in accordance with patch  900  of  FIG. 9 . And in other embodiments, one or more of patches  900   a - 900   d  may be applied without adhesive (e.g.,  120 ). 
         [0077]    After application of the patches (e.g.,  900 ,  900   a - 900   d , etc.) to container  1010 , straps  1110  and  1120  (e.g., comprising a polymer, metal, etc.) may be applied over the patches (e.g.,  900 ,  900   a - 900   d , etc.). It should be appreciated that straps  1110  and  1120  may be applied to strengthen container  1010 , to secure container  1010  to another object, etc. As such, the patches (e.g.,  900 ,  900   a - 900   d , etc.) may comprise dimensions (e.g., thicknesses  911   a ,  911   b ,  911   c , etc.) and/or compositions for providing physical properties sufficient to withstand straps  1110  and/or  1120 . 
         [0078]    Although  FIG. 11A  depicts only four patches (e.g.,  900   a - 900   d ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of patches may be used in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  900   a - 900   d ) may be alternatively positioned on container  1010  in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 9A  depicts only two straps (e.g.,  1110  and  1120 ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of straps may be applied to container  1010  in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that straps (e.g.,  1110 ,  1120 , etc.) applied to container  1010  may be alternatively positioned in other embodiments. 
         [0079]      FIG. 11B  shows exemplary edge patches  900   a - 900   d  for supporting straps applied to multiple containers  1010   a - 1010   b  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 11B , patches  900   a - 900   d  may function similarly when applied to multiple containers (e.g.,  101   a  and  1010   b  as depicted in  FIG. 11B ) as when they are applied to a single container (e.g.,  1010  as depicted in  FIG. 11A ). It should be appreciated that straps  1110  and  1120  may be applied to containers  1010   a  and  1010   b  to secure them to one another, to secure them to another object, etc. Thus, as described above with respect to  FIG. 11A , the patches (e.g.,  900 ,  900   a - 900   d , etc.) may comprise dimensions (e.g., thicknesses  911   a ,  911   b ,  911   c , etc.) and/or compositions for providing physical properties sufficient to withstand straps  1110  and/or  1120 . 
         [0080]    Although  FIG. 11B  depicts only four patches (e.g.,  900   a - 900   d ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of patches may be used in other embodiments. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  900   a - 900   d ) may be alternatively positioned on the containers (e.g.,  1010   a ,  1010   b , etc.) in other embodiments. Although  FIG. 11B  depicts only two straps (e.g.,  1110  and  1120 ), it should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of straps may be applied to the containers (e.g.,  1010   a ,  1010   b , etc.) in other embodiments. Further, it should be appreciated that the straps (e.g.,  1110 ,  1120 , etc.) applied to the containers (e.g.,  1010   a ,  1010   b , etc.) may be alternatively positioned in other embodiments. And although  FIG. 11B  depicts only two containers (e.g.,  1010   a  and  1010   b ), it should be appreciated that the patches (e.g.,  900 ,  900   a - 900   d , etc.) and straps (e.g.,  1110 ,  1120 , etc.) may be applied to more than two containers in other embodiments. 
         [0081]    In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. Thus, the sole and exclusive indicator of what is, and is intended by the applicant to be, the invention is the set of claims that issue from this application, in the specific form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent correction. Hence, no limitation, element, property, feature, advantage, or attribute that is not expressly recited in a claim should limit the scope of such claim in any way. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.