Collapsible Crate Base Projections for Stable Stacking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible crates cannot be stacked reliably on larger containers due to their larger footprint, which prevents interlocking with the pegs and platforms of the larger containers, resulting in instability during stacking.
Innovation Solution
The collapsible crate features a base with downwardly protruding projections or 'tabs' that interlock with the ribs on the platform of the larger container, providing a stable stacking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If collapsible crates use a larger footprint design, then they provide more storage capacity, but they cannot be stacked reliably on larger containers due to inability to interlock with pegs and platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The base of the collapsible crate is segmented with multiple projections or tabs distributed across its surface. These segmented elements individually engage with corresponding recesses or features on the larger container's platform, distributing the stacking load and improving reliability despite the crate's larger overall footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The projections or tabs on the crate base act as intermediary elements that mediate the connection between the collapsible crate and the larger container. These intermediate features enable interlocking without requiring direct contact between the crate's main body and the container's support structures
2Volume of moving object
If collapsible crates are designed with a larger footprint, then they can hold more items, but they destabilize when stacked on larger containers due to lack of interlocking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The base is divided into multiple engagement points through projections or tabs, creating multiple stable contact zones with the larger container. This segmentation distributes the crate's weight and prevents tipping, enhancing stacking stability despite the larger footprint
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the stacking interface by extending projections downward from the base. This creates interlocking engagement in the vertical dimension, preventing lateral movement and improving stability while maintaining the crate's horizontal storage capacity
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes a plurality of walls extending upward from a base. At least one support is movable between a retracted position and a support position. The base includes projections downwardly from each corner of the base for interlocking with a larger container stacked thereunder.