Adjustable Storage Container with Internal Gearing Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional storage containers have openings that are often too small, making it difficult to access products, especially for individuals with larger hands, and limiting the ability to adjust storage space without external tools.
Innovation Solution
A container with an internal platform that can be moved within the container using a built-in gearing system, allowing users to adjust the storage space and easily retrieve products without external tools, while also featuring an internal lateral wall for product retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If the container has a large capacity to store more product, then the storage volume is improved, but the accessibility to the product deteriorates because the opening remains too small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable internal platform that can be dynamically adjusted between different positions. When the platform is in the first position, it creates a larger storage volume. When moved to the second position, it brings the product closer to the opening, improving accessibility. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between storage capacity and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal platform divides the storage space into different zones. By segmenting the storage volume, the platform can be positioned to create either more storage space or better access paths, allowing the same container to serve both large-capacity storage and easy-access needs.
2Ease of operation
If the container opening is made larger to improve accessibility, then the ease of operation is improved, but the product retention capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The internal platform serves as a dynamic barrier that can be positioned to either block or allow access to the product. When positioned to improve accessibility, it still maintains product retention by controlling the flow path. This dynamic positioning allows the container to adapt between accessibility and retention needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal platform acts as an intermediary element between the opening and the stored product. It mediates the relationship by controlling access while maintaining retention, allowing users to access product without compromising the container's ability to hold and protect the product.
3Device complexity
If the container is designed as single-use to simplify structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different storage needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable internal platform adds dynamic adaptability to an otherwise simple single-use container structure. This allows the container to adapt to different storage needs (different product quantities, different access requirements) without requiring a completely complex redesign, thus maintaining relative simplicity while improving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal platform enables the single-use container to perform multiple functions: storing different amounts of product, providing easy access, and accommodating different product types. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the internal platform is made complex to enable precise storage adjustment, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The internal platform is designed to be self-adjusting through a simple mechanism that the user can operate easily. The platform moves automatically or with minimal user input, making the adjustment process intuitive and simple. This self-service approach maintains high adaptability while preserving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with simpler mechanisms. Instead of requiring complex gears, motors, or multiple moving parts, the platform uses a straightforward mechanical or even manual adjustment system that is easier to operate while still providing precise storage space control.
Data Source
AI summary
A container with adjustable storage space is an apparatus that enables the user to easily retrieve all the product stored within the container. The apparatus includes a lid assembly, a tubular shell, an end cap, a raisable platform, and a gearing system. The lid assembly helps hermetically seal the tubular shell to protect the stored product within the apparatus to prolong the product life cycle. The tubular shell retains the raisable platform in such a manner that the raisable platform can be moved within the tubular shell. The raisable platform is used to adjust the storage space within the tubular shell to retain different amounts of product. The gearing system facilitates the controlled movement of the raisable platform within the tubular shell to adjust the storage space of the tubular shell. The end cap enables the user to manually engage the gearing system from outside the tubular shell.