Baseball cap storage device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hat storage devices lack a configuration that allows for the efficient storage and display of multiple baseball caps in a horizontal, nested position, as they either do not provide a fixed mold system or a slidable mechanism to maintain caps in a stacked configuration.
Innovation Solution
A hat storage device comprising a base with a first fixed mold and a slidable second mold, biased by a mechanism such as rods and springs, which positions baseball caps between the molds for secure storage and display, along with a removable shell for protection and visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional hat storage devices are used, then hats can be stored, but they cannot efficiently store and display multiple baseball caps in a horizontal nested configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements horizontal nesting of multiple baseball caps within a single storage device. The caps are arranged in a nested configuration where multiple caps occupy the same horizontal space, dramatically increasing storage efficiency. The mold structure with multiple cavities allows caps to be stored in a compact nested arrangement rather than requiring separate vertical space for each cap.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional vertical stacking to horizontal nesting by changing the dimensional arrangement. Instead of stacking caps vertically one on top of another, the invention arranges them horizontally in a nested pattern within the mold cavities, utilizing horizontal space more effectively and enabling display functionality.
2Stability of the object's composition
If caps are stored without a fixed mold system, then storage is simple, but caps cannot be maintained in a stable stacked configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device is divided into multiple segmented cavities within the mold, each cavity designed to hold a specific baseball cap in the desired horizontal nested position. This segmentation provides individual stable positions for each cap while maintaining the overall stacked configuration. The mold structure is divided into functional zones including cavities, walls, and support elements that collectively stabilize the caps.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold structure acts as an intermediary between the baseball caps and the storage container. It provides a stable intermediate framework that holds the caps in their nested configuration, transferring and distributing forces to maintain stability. The mold walls and support structures serve as mediating elements that prevent caps from shifting or deforming.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If caps are stored without protection, then access is easy, but caps are exposed to dust and moisture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a shell or cover structure that encloses the mold containing the baseball caps. This shell acts as a protective barrier against dust and moisture while maintaining relatively easy access. The shell can be designed to open or remove, allowing users to access the caps without compromising the protective enclosure when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective shell is merged with the mold structure to create an integrated storage system. The mold and shell work together as a unified protective enclosure, combining the structural support of the mold with the environmental protection of the shell, thereby protecting caps from harmful factors while maintaining accessibility.
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
Enables efficient storage and display of multiple baseball caps in a horizontal, nested configuration while maintaining their shape, protecting them from dust and moisture, and allowing easy access and visibility.
Implementation Method 1
A biaser is attached to the end plate and is operationally engaged to the second mold to bias the second mold toward the first mold
Data Source
AI summary
A baseball cap storage device for storing and displaying baseball caps includes a base and a shell. A first mold and an end plate are engaged to and extend from an upper face of the base proximate to a first and second ends of the base, respectively. A second mold is slidably attached to the base and is selectively positionable between the first mold and the end plate. A biaser is attached to the end plate and biases the second mold toward the first mold. The first mold abuts a concave face of a plurality of baseball caps, which are folded and nested. The second mold abuts a convex face of the plurality of baseball caps to fixedly position the plurality of baseball caps between the first and second molds. A shell, which has an open bottom, is selectively positionable upon the base to cover the plurality of baseball caps.