Collapsible Crate With Retractable Front Wall And Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current metal crates used for transporting egg cartons are expensive, prone to damage, susceptible to rust, and not recyclable, requiring labor for handling and unloading, and are not easily repairable.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible crate design with movable walls, a latch system that secures the front wall in a closed position and can be easily released, and hinges with a cap for secure assembly, allowing the crate to be folded for shipping and expanded for access, reducing material usage and handling costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal crates are used for transporting egg cartons, then the crates provide structural strength and durability, but they are expensive, prone to rust, not recyclable, and require labor for handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to plastic, transforming the crate from a non-recyclable, rust-prone metal structure to a recyclable, corrosion-resistant plastic structure. This material parameter change resolves the contradiction by maintaining structural strength while eliminating rust susceptibility and improving recyclability.
Solution Approach 2:
The crate is divided into separate modular components including a base, multiple wall sections, and a lid that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables easier manufacturing, recycling, and repair while maintaining the overall structural strength of the crate when assembled.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If metal crates are used for transporting egg cartons, then the crates provide durability, but they require labor for unloading and handling in stores
Solution Approach 1:
The crate incorporates dynamic elements including a retractable front wall that can move between extended and retracted positions, and a latch mechanism that enables easy opening and closing. These dynamic features allow store employees to quickly access and unload egg cartons without lifting or maneuvering the entire heavy crate, significantly reducing handling labor while maintaining crate durability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the crate walls are made fixed and upright, then the crate maintains structural integrity, but it occupies excessive shipping volume when empty
Solution Approach 1:
The crate walls are segmented into modular sections that can be folded flat against the base when not in use. The front wall separates into upper and lower portions that can be retracted, and side walls can be folded inward, transforming the crate from a rigid three-dimensional structure to a compact two-dimensional configuration for efficient shipping.
Solution Approach 2:
The crate incorporates hinged joints and latch mechanisms that enable the walls to dynamically transition between upright and folded positions. This dynamic design allows the crate to maintain structural integrity when needed while occupying minimal space during shipping and storage.
4Reliability
If the latch mechanism is made secure and reliable, then the crate remains closed during transport, but it becomes difficult to release and open
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism uses spring-loaded elements that provide automatic engagement when the crate closes, ensuring reliable security during transport. The same spring mechanism automatically assists in releasing the latch when sufficient force is applied to open the crate, maintaining both security and ease of operation through dynamic mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through spring force, automatically locking when the crate closes and automatically releasing when opened. This eliminates the need for separate locking or unlocking actions, maintaining reliable security while enabling easy operation through the natural mechanical properties of the spring-loaded design.
Data Source
AI summary
A crate includes a base and a plurality of walls defining a crate interior. The plurality of walls are movable between an upright position and a collapsed position on the base. The plurality of walls include a front wall having a first portion movable between a retracted, open position and a closed position. A latch selectively secures the first portion in the closed position. The latch includes a cantilevered portion having a free end, the free end having a lower wall portion extending downward and then outward of the crate.