Collapsible Storage Container with Reinforcing Liner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage containers lack efficient collapsibility and reinforcement, making them less suitable for space-saving shipping and storage applications.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible storage container design featuring a rectangular bin with overlapping sides and bottom panels, a reinforcing liner sheet, and clamping handles, which can be secured using heated bonding or adhesives, and reinforced with hinge elements for rigidity, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional storage containers are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but collapsibility and space efficiency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into modular panels with standardized connection points, allowing the structure to be segmented for collapse while maintaining strength through proper reassembly. The panels can be disconnected and stacked efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The container employs dynamic connection mechanisms that allow transitions between rigid assembled state and collapsed state. The connections can flex and reconfigure during collapse while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
2Strength
If reinforcement elements are added to improve strength, then structural integrity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Reinforcement elements are integrated into the existing panel and connection structures rather than being separate add-on components. The strengthening features are merged with the basic structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Reinforcement is applied locally at critical stress points and connection areas rather than uniformly throughout the entire container. This provides necessary strength where needed while minimizing added complexity.
3Strength
If permanent bonding methods are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but ease of collapse and reassembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding system transitions from permanent to temporary/dynamic based on operational needs. Connections can be easily engaged and disengaged while providing sufficient strength during use.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional permanent mechanical fasteners are replaced with alternative bonding mechanisms that provide comparable strength but allow for easier assembly and disassembly operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design provides a lightweight yet strong storage solution that can be easily collapsed and stacked, optimizing space usage during shipping and storage while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
secured using heated bonding or adhesives
Implementation Method 2
secured using heated bonding or adhesives
Data Source
AI summary
Various examples are provided for collapsible storage containers. In one example, among others, a storage container includes a rectangular bin, a reinforcing liner sheet, and clamping handles. The rectangular bin can include a cavity defined by a bottom and a plurality of sides including opposite sides having handle openings. The reinforcing liner sheet can include side sections separated by a bottom section, where the side sections include handle openings. The bottom section can be configured to align with the bottom of the rectangular bin and the side sections can be configured to align with the opposite sides of the rectangular bin when the reinforcing liner sheet is inserted into the cavity. The clamping handles can be configured to pass through aligned handle openings in one of the opposite sides and one of the side sections, thereby securing the reinforcing liner sheet in the rectangular bin.