Clamp-Mounted Collection Container for Work Surface Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Limited work surface space in both domestic and industrial settings leads to clutter and increased risk of tools and materials going missing due to lack of secure storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
A collection system with removable clamp arm assemblies that securely attach to work surfaces, featuring force generating elements like torsion springs or cam mechanisms to hold containers in place, allowing for easy attachment and detachment of containers for debris, food, and tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bowls and containers are placed on the work surface to collect food items and scraps, then the functionality of meal preparation is improved, but the available work surface area is reduced and clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp arm assembly extends vertically from the work surface, utilizing the third dimension (height) to mount containers rather than spreading them across the horizontal work surface. This allows containers to be positioned above the work surface while keeping the work surface itself clear and uncluttered.
2Reliability
If containers are securely attached to the work surface to prevent items from going missing, then reliability is improved, but the complexity of the attachment mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional modules: clamp arms for gripping the work surface, a mounting mechanism for securing containers, and a release mechanism for easy detachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp arm assembly incorporates movable components that allow the container to be securely attached during use and easily detached when needed. The dynamic nature of the attachment mechanism provides both reliability during operation and simplicity for setup and cleanup.
3Ease of operation
If the work surface is kept clear for easy cleaning and task transitions, then ease of operation is improved, but secure storage space for tools and materials is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Storage containers are mounted vertically above the work surface using clamp arms, transferring storage functionality from the horizontal plane to the vertical dimension. This keeps the work surface clear for easy cleaning and task transitions while providing adequate storage capacity on the containers positioned above.
4Reliability
If clamp arm assemblies with force generating elements are used to securely hold containers, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force generating elements (such as springs) are self-contained within the clamp arm assembly and automatically provide the necessary holding force without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself by using elastic potential energy stored in the springs to maintain constant contact pressure on the container.
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
The system effectively utilizes available work surface space by keeping it clear and organized, reducing clutter and the risk of items being misplaced, while allowing for easy cleaning and task transitions.
Implementation Method 1
force generating elements like torsion springs or cam mechanisms
Implementation Method 2
force generating elements like torsion springs or cam mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A collection system for removable attachment to a work surface includes a container portion having an interior defined by a bottom wall, a front wall, a back wall, and first and second sidewalls. The first and second sidewalls each including a first portion of a securement mechanism. The collection system also includes a first and second clamp arm assemblies that are configured to releasably attach to the first and second side walls, respectively. Each of the first and second clamp arm assemblies includes an upper clamp arm, a wall portion coupled to and extending downwardly from the first upper clamp arm, a lower clamp arm coupled to the wall portion, and a second portion of the securement mechanism that is configured to releasably engage the first portion of the securement mechanism.