Collapsible Storage Unit Structure for Mobile Pallet Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Businesses face insufficient warehouse space, necessitating mobile storage solutions that are not optimized for premium inventory access and storage, often relying on semi-trailers and shipping containers designed for transportation rather than storage.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible storage unit with a hinged design allowing for articulation between extended and collapsed conditions, comprising a base, roof, side walls, and end panels, which can be transported in a compact form and easily assembled into an expanded storage configuration, enabling efficient storage and access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If semi-trailers and shipping containers are used for mobile storage, then availability and rental cost are improved, but accessibility and inventory management efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is divided into multiple modular sections that can be independently accessed and configured. Each module can be opened or closed separately, allowing employees to access specific inventory without entering the entire container, thereby improving accessibility while maintaining the cost-effective container structure
Solution Approach 2:
The storage unit incorporates movable walls, rolling doors, and adjustable shelving systems that enable dynamic reconfiguration of internal space. This allows the storage unit to adapt to different inventory needs and improves access efficiency while maintaining the economical container form factor
2Volume of stationary object
If traditional fixed storage structures are used, then storage capacity is improved, but mobility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage structure employs collapsible walls, telescopic beams, and adjustable support systems that allow the unit to be expanded for maximum storage capacity when stationary, and collapsed or reconfigured for easy mobility when relocation is needed, thus achieving both high storage capacity and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The storage unit's dimensions and configuration can be dynamically changed through adjustable parameters such as wall height, panel angles, and internal partition positions, allowing the same structure to provide varying storage capacities while maintaining mobility and adaptability to different site requirements
3Productivity
If collapsible design is implemented, then mobility and storage efficiency are improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex collapsible structure is broken down into standardized, pre-fabricated modular components with simple connection mechanisms. Each module can be independently assembled and disassembled using straightforward locking systems, reducing the overall structural complexity while maintaining mobility and storage efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible design employs nested components where smaller structural elements fit within larger ones during collapsed state, and unfold in a predetermined sequence during deployment. This nested arrangement simplifies the collapsing mechanism by eliminating the need for complex external support structures during assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible storage unit includes a base, a roof, first and second side walls, and first and second end panels. Each side wall includes an upper side wall section hinged to a side edge of the roof and a lower side wall section hinged to a side edge of the base, wherein the upper side wall section is also hinged to the lower side wall section so that each side wall can be articulated between an extended condition and an inwardly collapsed condition. Each end panel is hinged to an end of the base and can be articulated between a collapsed condition against the base and an extended condition securable to an end of the side walls. At least one of the end panels includes a door. Multiple collapsible storage units may be transported on a single flatbed surface in a collapsed condition and upright orientation.