Modular Cargo Container Latching for Faster Vehicle Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for loading and unloading vehicle cargo compartments require frequent user interaction and lack a scalable, high-portability storage solution that is cost-effective and simple to use across various applications, including private, industrial, and warehouse settings.
Innovation Solution
A modular portable storage container system comprising interconnected sections with a blocking frame, latch mechanism, and brake mechanism, allowing for secure, efficient, and easy movement within vehicle cargo compartments, featuring a position sensor and indicator for secure engagement status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual loading and unloading methods are used, then user interaction is required, but this increases the number of times users must interact with cargo before, during, and after transit
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions container sections within a blocking frame structure that is already installed in the vehicle cargo compartment. The brake mechanisms are pre-configured to engage with the floor, and latch mechanisms are pre-positioned to secure container sections. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for repeated manual positioning and securing operations during loading and unloading.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake mechanisms automatically engage with the floor to prevent movement of container sections relative to the floor. The latch mechanisms automatically secure the structural frames of container sections to the blocking frame. These self-acting mechanisms reduce the need for continuous manual intervention throughout the transit process.
2Ease of operation
If a scalable storage system is designed for high portability, then it can be easily moved, but this may compromise structural stability during transit
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple container sections that can be independently moved and positioned. Each container section has its own brake and latch mechanisms, allowing individual sections to be secured separately. This segmentation enables high portability while maintaining structural stability through distributed securing points throughout the cargo compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
Container sections are designed to nest within or alongside each other when not in use, maximizing space efficiency and portability. The blocking frame structure provides an outer framework that contains and stabilizes the nested container sections during transit, allowing the system to be compact when empty and expandable when in use.
3Reliability
If a secure storage system is designed with multiple securing mechanisms, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the structural framework for the cargo compartment, supports the brake mechanisms, positions the latch mechanisms, and defines the boundaries for container sections. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high reliability through redundant securing mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a scalable storage system is designed for various applications, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses standardized, modular container sections that can be configured in different arrangements for various applications. Each container section is manufactured to the same specifications with identical brake and latch mechanisms, allowing for economies of scale in manufacturing while providing adaptability through different combinations and configurations of the same modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking frame and container sections are designed as universal components that can be used across different vehicle types and application scenarios. The same basic design can be scaled up or down and adapted to different cargo compartment sizes without requiring custom-manufactured parts, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular portable storage container system includes a first container section and a second container section, each of the first and second container sections having a structural frame. A blocking frame is sized and shaped to fit within a vehicle cargo compartment. A latch mechanism selectively retains the structural frame of each of the first and second container sections in contact with the blocking frame. A position sensor is in communication with a position indicator. The position sensor detects a position of the first and second container sections relative to the blocking frame. The position indicator indicates a position of the first and second container sections relative to the blocking frame. A plurality of casters affixed to a bottom surface of the first and second container sections allows the first and second container sections to roll over the floor.