Adjustable storage systems, adjustable storage receptacles, and methods of manufacturing and using the same
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Storage receptacles of fixed size are often inadequate for storing diverse objects or object combinations, necessitating adaptable or adjustable solutions.
Innovation Solution
The development of adjustable storage receptacles with modifiable interior volumes, featuring expansion mechanisms and opening/closing mechanisms that can be manually or mechanically operated, allowing for flexible storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size storage receptacles are used, then manufacturing and operation are simple, but adaptability to different object sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The storage receptacle employs expandable wall structures that can dynamically change the interior volume. The walls include expansion mechanisms with panels that can be moved between retracted and extended positions, allowing the receptacle to adapt its size to different storage needs while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage receptacle is divided into multiple wall sections with independently movable panels. Each panel can be adjusted separately, allowing granular control over the interior volume. This segmentation enables the receptacle to accommodate various object sizes without requiring a completely different structure for each case.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable storage volume is implemented, then flexibility in storing different objects is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion mechanism incorporates spring elements that automatically return the movable panels to their retracted position when the expansion force is removed. This self-service feature reduces the need for complex retraction mechanisms and simplifies the overall system while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable panels are designed with hinges and connection mechanisms that allow smooth expansion and contraction movements. The dynamic structure enables easy adjustment of storage volume without requiring complex locking or securing systems for each position.
3Adaptability or versatility
If expansion mechanisms are added, then storage volume adjustability is improved, but ease of operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-based return mechanism automatically resets the movable panels to their initial position after expansion, eliminating the need for manual retraction operations. This self-service feature maintains ease of operation while providing full adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge connections and movable panel design allow for smooth, low-friction expansion movements that can be operated with minimal force. The dynamic structure ensures that adjustments can be made easily without requiring complex manipulation or significant physical effort.
Data Source
AI summary
Adjustable storage systems, adjustable storage receptacles, and methods of manufacturing and using the same are disclosed. In one aspect, an adjustable storage system includes a plurality of adjustable storage receptacles, each of which may include a housing, an opening/closing mechanism, and an expansion mechanism. The expansion mechanism may be operable to increase or decrease an interior storage volume of the associated storage receptacle, enabling greater flexibility in storing objects of different shapes and sizes, relative to a fixed-size or fixed-geometry storage receptacle. In additional aspects, a method of using an adjustable storage receptacle and a method of using an adjustable storage system are provided, and further, a method of manufacturing an adjustable storage receptacle and a method of manufacturing an adjustable storage system are provided.