Adjustable Ventilation Opening in Produce Storage Container
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated storage and retrieval systems for produce lack the ability to adjust ventilation levels within storage containers, which can impact the durability and quality of stored fruits and vegetables, as different produce types require varying levels of air exposure.
Innovation Solution
A storage container with an adjustable ventilation opening that can be closed or opened based on the type of produce, allowing for optimal air exposure, integrated into the design with a top panel that can be sealed to create an airtight compartment and stacked with other containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If storage containers are designed with fixed ventilation openings, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the durability and quality of different produce types cannot be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation opening is designed to be adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the container to adapt its ventilation characteristics dynamically based on the specific produce type being stored. This resolves the contradiction by making the container structure adaptable (improving produce quality optimization) while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through a straightforward adjustment mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ventilation openings are always open, then air circulation is maximized, but produce requiring minimal ventilation cannot maintain durability and quality
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable ventilation opening allows operators to control air circulation levels dynamically based on produce requirements. Some produce types can have maximum ventilation, while others can have reduced or closed ventilation, all within the same container design. This maintains ease of operation through a simple adjustment mechanism while achieving the adaptability needed for different produce types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If top panel is permanently sealed, then storage compartment is airtight and protects produce, but ventilation cannot be provided when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The top panel is segmented into a fixed sealing portion and an adjustable ventilation portion. This segmentation allows the container to achieve both airtight sealing (when the ventilation portion is closed) and controlled ventilation (when the ventilation portion is opened), without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable panel system. The segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing functional flexibility through structured division.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container stores produce in an automated storage and retrieval system. The storage container includes a base panel; four side panels extending from the base; and a top panel provided above the four side panels. The base panel, the four side panels, and the top panel define a storage compartment. The storage container includes an adjustable ventilation opening provided in the base panel, the top panel, or one of the four side panels.