PET concept bottle is uniquely sculptured

ScorCreative, the structural design studio co-located at Amcor Rigid Plastics’ R&D and Innovation Center in the US, has produced a Growler-type 1.75L liquor bottle that takes high-definition design sculpting to a new level. By applying Amcor’s industry experience with advanced software programs the company has developed one of the first hand-sculpted PET liquor bottles. This innovative concept package design integrates a nautical theme with several three-dimensional qualities including etchings of an octopus sculpted into the bottle’s shape.

“Our goal with this concept design was to go beyond traditional etching and engraving and open up our customers’ eyes to the possibilities,” said Rick Rangler, a senior designer at ScorCreative. “We want to help them see beyond a traditional logo on the bottle and instead create a canvas for artwork.”

The unique bottle design delivers a container with strong shelf appeal, according to Greg Hurley, another ScorCreative senior designer: “Ultimately, the bottle’s highly attractive and eye-catching shelf appeal motivates consumers to want to hold the container. A set of geometry was developed, providing more than an engraving but a highly refined structural element inspired by the nautical theme. Extensive detail went into the highly sculpted design which provides an organic flow and a unique textural experience for the consumer.”

Amcor used several software systems, which were adapted from the gaming, animation, movie, and automotive industries, along with its proprietary process applications to accomplish the project in an unconventional manner. Different elements of each software program were combined and then put in the hands of industrial designer Hurley who developed an “artistic” rendition of the nautical theme. The PET container includes a cork closure, a neck finger hole, and an octopus etched around the shoulder of the bottle.

“This breakthrough design delivers etching and engraving that isn’t possible with traditional 3-D modelling software,” said Hurley. “The concept bottle highlights Amcor's drive to push the boundaries of PET and typical package constraints by utilizing cutting edge technology.”

Complementing the design is a unique die-cut paper label, which has a treasure map design with assimilated burned edges. Rangler developed the ‘Hard to Port’ brand, which would be targeted for commercialisation of a dark rum liquor product.

ScorCreative will adapt the learnings from this concept design to ultimately create a commercial container that is not only eye-catching but also functional. A key goal is adapting the 3-D CAD model and creating the intricate detail through the blow moulding process, thus taking the design from concept to store shelf. 

Amcor Rigid Plastics is among the world’s largest manufacturers of rigid plastic packaging for the food, beverage, spirits, personal/home care, and healthcare industries with 59 facilities in 13 countries. Amcor Limited is a global leader, employing more than 27,000 people worldwide, operating in over 40 countries across 180+ sites. Amcor (AMC) is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. For more information, visit www.amcor.com.

20 January 2015 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor