Collapsible Modular Containers for Stackable, Watertight Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers are inefficient for storage due to fixed size, difficult to fit in small or awkward spaces, lack customizable components, and have unreliable watertight seals that fail under rough conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular, collapsible container system with flexible walls, removable rims and rails, interchangeable lids and accessories, and a watertight seal mechanism that is easy to use, allowing for customizable configurations and efficient stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid containers are used, then structural strength is improved, but storage efficiency deteriorates because they cannot be collapsed
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into a rigid rim structure and flexible wall sections. The rigid rim provides structural strength and stacking stability, while the flexible walls can be collapsed when empty, enabling efficient storage of the container itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The container uses flexible waterproof wall materials that can be collapsed when empty but maintain structural integrity when in use. This allows the container to transition between rigid and flexible states, solving both the strength and storage efficiency requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size containers are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because they cannot be configured for different purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The container system uses standardized rims and interchangeable accessories (lids, handles, straps, wheels) that can be configured for different purposes. The basic container structure remains simple for manufacturing, while the modular accessories provide adaptability for various uses.
Solution Approach 2:
The container transitions from a static fixed-size design to a dynamic system where the effective volume and configuration can change. The flexible walls allow the container to expand or collapse, and interchangeable accessories enable reconfiguration for different functions.
3Ease of operation
If traditional watertight seals (zippers) are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates because they break under rough use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a robust mechanical sealing system with rigid rims and interlocking lids that are designed to withstand rough outdoor use. The seal mechanism is simple and durable, replacing fragile zippers with a more reliable mechanical closure system.
4Volume of moving object
If soft collapsible bags are used, then storage efficiency is improved, but stacking ability deteriorates because they cannot stand open
Solution Approach 1:
The container separates the structural support function (rigid rim) from the flexible storage function (collapsible walls). The rigid rim provides a stable base for stacking, while the flexible walls can be collapsed when empty, allowing both stacking ability and storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The container combines rigid materials for the rim and base with flexible waterproof materials for the walls. This composite construction provides both the structural stability needed for stacking and the flexibility needed for efficient storage when empty.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable, collapsible modular container system for transportation and storage is provided. The containers are modular and can be stacked in either extended or expanded position, collapsed, or a mix thereof. The container system is modular and customizable, and attachments such as wheel, handles, carry straps, tie down straps, and other accessories, may be added or removed at the option of the user.