Collapsible Container Pole Securement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bulk containers for flowable materials are either bulky and heavy, inefficient in space utilization, or lack the ability to be stacked due to rigid or complex connection systems, making them costly and difficult to collapse for storage and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A stackable, collapsible container with a flexible outer skin and a rigid support system featuring compression-molded fiberglass-filled polypropylene base and top, supported by poles with tapered holes for easy assembly and disassembly, eliminating the need for permanent or complex connections between adjacent poles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid connection systems are used to connect adjacent poles, then lateral support is maintained, but the container becomes heavier and more difficult to collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into discrete pole pieces with tapered ends that can be individually inserted into corresponding holes. This segmentation allows the poles to be connected through simple insertion rather than rigid permanent connections, maintaining structural integrity while enabling easy disassembly and collapse.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from static rigid connections to dynamic insertable/removable connections. The tapered pole ends designed to fit into holes with ridges provide a connection that is secure during use but can be easily disconnected when collapse is needed, allowing the structure to adapt between operational and storage states.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connection systems are used to connect adjacent poles, then structural stability is improved, but the container becomes more difficult to collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The poles are divided into separate segments with tapered ends that fit into corresponding holes. This segmentation allows the poles to be easily inserted and removed, enabling simple collapse and setup operations while maintaining structural stability when assembled through the interlocking tapered design.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using permanent rigid connections that require tools for assembly and disassembly, the invention inverts the approach by using simple insertable tapered poles that rely on friction and geometric fit. This inversion makes the connection system easier to operate for collapse and setup while maintaining adequate structural stability.
3Force
If cable connections are used to connect adjacent poles, then force transfer between poles is achieved, but the system becomes complicated to set up and take down
Solution Approach 1:
The complex cable connection system is extracted and replaced with a simpler direct pole-to-hole insertion system. The tapered pole ends with ridges provide sufficient force transfer between adjacent poles through direct contact and friction, eliminating the need for cables and significantly simplifying setup and takedown operations.
4Reliability
If strapping material is provided across the top of the container, then securement is achieved, but access to the top of the container is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The strapping material securement system is extracted and replaced by the tapered pole connection system integrated into the container structure. The poles themselves provide the securement function through their interlocking design, eliminating the need for separate strapping material and preserving full access to the container top.
Data Source
AI summary
A stackable, collapsible container for flowable materials. The container utilizes an outer container and a flexible inner liner retained by a base, a top and a plurality of support poles. The support poles are retained in a plurality of holes in the base provided with a plurality of wedges to secure the holes against lateral movement. Providing wedges within tapered holes facilitates the compression molding of the depth of holes required for adequately supporting the support poles.