Height-Adjustable Storage Container With Locking Leg Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage container systems lack the ability to conveniently adjust height and securely lock compartments for organized storage and transport of tools or articles, limiting accessibility and stability.
Innovation Solution
A container system with extendable legs and a lock assembly that allows the container to be raised to selected heights, featuring compartments with flexible closures and handles for easy access and transport, and a cooperative releasable lock assembly that biases compartments outward for secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the container is raised to a selected height using extendable legs, then accessibility is improved, but stability may be compromised without a locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The container system employs dynamically adjustable extendable legs that can change length to raise or lower the container body, transitioning from a static fixed-height structure to a dynamic height-adjustable system. This allows the container to adapt to different accessibility requirements while maintaining stability through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the extendable legs and the container body, providing the necessary stabilization. When engaged, it locks the legs in position to prevent unintended movement, thereby ensuring stability during operation while allowing height adjustment when needed.
2Reliability
If compartments are made secure with lock assemblies, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly serves multiple functions: it secures the compartments to the container body, locks the extendable legs in position, and can engage or disengage to allow movement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate locking mechanisms for different components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the overall container system design, combining the compartment security function with the leg stabilization function. By merging these functions into a unified lock assembly system, the patent reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining both security and stability.
3Ease of operation
If compartments are designed to be removable and portable with handles, then ease of operation is improved, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is segmented into removable compartment units that can be detached from the main container body. Each compartment is designed as an independent module with integrated handles, allowing individual removal and portability. This segmentation enables flexible operation while maintaining structural integrity through proper connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The compartments are pre-equipped with integrated handles and connection interfaces during manufacturing, preparing them for easy removal and reattachment. This preliminary preparation of connection mechanisms and handling features enables quick deployment and portability without compromising the structural strength of the compartments themselves.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides improved accessibility, stability, and secure storage by allowing the container to be elevated and locked at desired heights, with compartments that can be easily accessed and transported, enhancing organizational capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The releasable lock assembly comprises a spring that biases the at least one compartment outwardly from the container when the lock assembly is released
Data Source
AI summary
A container assembly, comprises a container, at least one compartment constructed and arranged to be carried by the container, a plurality of extendable legs operatively connected with the container, and a lock assembly. The at least one compartment is configurable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The plurality of extendable legs support the container at a selected height. The lock assembly locks the legs and hence the container at the selected height.