Adjustable Volume Storage Container Using Slot-Tab Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional adjustable volume storage containers are often cumbersome and require significant space due to additional moving parts, making them impractical for storage until needed.
Innovation Solution
The storage container is constructed from two panels with slots and tabs, allowing for adjustable volume by folding along defined lines to form a compact, collapsible structure that can be easily assembled to various sizes using adhesive or fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable volume storage containers use additional moving parts, catches, latches, or clamps, then the container can be adjusted to different sizes, but the container becomes cumbersome and requires lots of space
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple panels with predefined slots and tabs that can be selectively engaged. Each panel contains an array of slots and corresponding tabs that allow the container to be assembled in different configurations, enabling volume adjustment without complex mechanisms. The segmentation of panels with standardized connection points simplifies the adjustment process while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The container design allows dynamic reconfiguration of panels through the slot-tab engagement system. Users can selectively engage different numbers of slots and tabs on each panel to adjust the container's volume and shape. This dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through simple tab insertion and removal actions rather than complex mechanical mechanisms, making the container adaptable to different storage needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustable volume storage containers are constructed with complex mechanisms, then the container can be adjusted to different sizes, but the container requires extensive space even when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The container panels are designed to nest within each other when collapsed. The folded panels can be compacted into a small bundle that fits within the volume of the smallest container configuration, allowing the same container structure to serve multiple volume requirements without requiring extensive storage space when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are pre-cut with predefined slots, tabs, and fold lines during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of the panel geometry allows for rapid assembly and disassembly without requiring complex mechanisms or extensive storage space. The pre-defined connection points enable the container to be quickly configured for different volumes and then collapsed to a compact state for storage.
3Volume of moving object
If conventional storage containers are designed to be collapsible, then the container takes up less space when not needed, but the container becomes cumbersome and difficult to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The container is segmented into multiple panels with standardized slots and tabs that simplify assembly. Each panel can be independently handled and positioned, and the standardized connection points provide clear guidance for assembly. This segmentation reduces the complexity of collapsing and assembling the container while maintaining the ability to compact it to minimal space.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot-tab connection system is designed to be self-aligning and self-locking. The tabs naturally fit into the slots through simple insertion motions, and the connection is maintained through the interlocking geometry of the tabs and slots. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex assembly instructions or difficult manipulation, making the container easy to assemble and disassemble despite its collapsible nature.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application contemplates an adjustable volume storage container. The container is formed from two panels (10). The panels are made from a heavy duty paper board or corrugated cardboard, or the like, and are foldable. The panels (10) are prefabricated, each having a slot array (70) and two tabs (72, 74). The panels (10) are also cut to form sub-panels. The panels (10) are folded along lines (40) and (42) so that the tabs (72, 74) of one panel (10) can mate with the slot array (70) of the other panel (10). The particular slot selected determines the length of the container. Once the tabs (72, 74) are mated with the slot arrays (70), the bottom sub-panels (62, 64, 66) are folded under and fastened to form the container bottom. The container is filled, and then the upper sub-panels (50, 52, 54) are folded over and fastened creating the container top.