Composite Storage Device with Segmented Folding Chambers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current bags and suitcases lack the ability to fold efficiently and provide adequate protection for small items, as they do not have adjustable inner space, making it difficult to store and retrieve items quickly and safely without opening the entire compartment.

Innovation Solution

A storage device with a composite layer comprising a polyurethane layer, a polyurethane-polyurea copolymer layer, and an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer layer, featuring folding auxiliary structures and fastening members like snap joints, Velcro, or zips, allowing for adjustable storage compartments and partial access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the inner space of bags/suitcases is designed as an entire space, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but users cannot open partially to access items quickly and the spatial pattern cannot be adjusted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAccessibility to stored itemsVSAvoidStructure of inner space
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inner space is divided into multiple independent storage chambers separated by partition walls with folding auxiliary structures. Each chamber can be accessed independently through separate openings, allowing users to retrieve items without opening the entire bag. This segmentation enables partial access while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If bags are made foldable, then portability is improved, but the protective function deteriorates due to excessive softness

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveFoldabilityVSAvoidProtective function
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The bag utilizes flexible materials including polyurethane layers, polyurethane-polyurea copolymer layers, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer layers to create a shell that can fold while maintaining protective strength. The layered composite structure provides both flexibility for folding and sufficient strength for protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The bag employs composite materials consisting of multiple layers including polyurethane, polyurethane-polyurea copolymer, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer. This composite structure combines the advantages of each material to achieve both foldability and protective strength, resolving the contradiction between softness and protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If small items are placed in an entire inner space without fixed spaces, then the storage structure is simple, but small items cannot be fixed properly and are easy to break

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveProtection of stored itemsVSAvoidStorage chamber design
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inner space is segmented into multiple storage chambers of different sizes and shapes, each suitable for specific types of items including small items. Partition walls with folding structures create these specialized spaces, providing proper fixation and protection for small items while maintaining reasonable structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3042766B1Material of storage device, storage device and a bag thereof
Publication Date: 2019.05.29 BOURGEOIS
  • EP3042766B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3042766B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3042766B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The present invention discloses a material of storage device, a storage device and a bag of the same. The material of storage device comprise a composite layer composed of polyurethane layer, polyurethane-polyurea copolymer layer, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer layer materials. The storage device is formed by the above material, which can be folded in vertical direction and/or horizontal direction; the storage device has a plurality of cavity-shaped storage chamber. A bag formed by the storage device is disclosed. The material and structure of the present invention has the features of waterproof, light weight, proper hardness, capability to fold, high wearing feature, scratch resistant. The storing spatial pattern of the said storage device could be adjusted when needed; it could effectively protect the stored items. The provided bag could be opened partially, allowing quickly and conveniently access to the stored items, the storage space in the bag is designed for a better protection of stored items.