Collapsible Container Latch Mechanism for Efficient Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible containers with overlapping walls face inefficiencies in stacking due to increased package height and lack of stability when collapsed, and existing solutions often compromise on strength and rigidity or require complex manufacturing and cleaning processes.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible container design featuring a versatile latch mechanism that allows for efficient folding and stacking of overlapping walls, with interlocking members and a knock-down style for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling use with both automated equipment and human users, while maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If walls are made tall to provide large container volume and depth, then container capacity is improved, but when folded the walls overlap and result in less efficient stacking with higher package height
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a drag rail feature that extends along the bottom surface of the container, creating a new dimensional element that enables interlocking between stacked containers. This drag rail allows the second container to be inserted into the first container when collapsed, transforming the stacking mechanism from simple vertical placement to an interlocking engagement that reduces overall package height while maintaining the tall wall design for maximum volume.
2Ease of operation
If latch mechanism is designed for outside actuation for user convenience, then ease of operation is improved, but usability with automated equipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed with dual actuation capabilities: an outer release surface for manual operation by users and an inner release surface for automated equipment. This multi-functional design allows the same latch to be operated by both human hands and automated mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate latch designs and providing universal applicability across different user scenarios.
3Length of moving object
If walls are designed to overlap when folded for compact storage, then stacking efficiency is improved, but structural strength and rigidity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is positioned and designed to engage walls at specific locations that preemptively reinforce the structural integrity during the folding process. As the walls are collapsed and overlapped, the latch engages to maintain proper alignment and prevent excessive deformation, thereby preserving strength and rigidity even when walls are in the folded position.
4Ease of manufacture
If hinge mechanism is designed for easy manufacturing and cleaning, then ease of manufacture is improved, but connection strength and reliability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is segmented into distinct components: a hinge body, a hinge arm, and an integrated latch mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using simple processes and then assembled together, maintaining ease of manufacture while the integrated latch provides reliable connection strength. The modular design also facilitates cleaning by allowing disassembly of individual components.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible container includes a plurality of collapsible walls, each pair of adjacent walls connected by a latch. Each latch can be selectively actuated from contact with the latch both from inside and the outside of the container, and further by inwardly directed forced to the outside of the wall first to collapse. Preferably, the latch includes a recess into which the adjacent wall is disposed when the latch is in the latched position. Preferably, the latch is unlatched by flexing the latch away from the adjacent wall by application of force on an inner release surface, inward of the recess or by actuation of an outer release surface, outward of the recess, or by the application of an inwardly directed forced to the walls that are first to collapse.