Configurable container
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable storage containers lack flexibility in temperature control and configuration, making it difficult to maintain perishable items at desired temperatures during transportation and storage, especially in varying ambient conditions, and do not effectively secure contents from shifting during transit.
Innovation Solution
A configurable storage container system featuring an insulated body with interchangeable dividers and temperature control packs, allowing for customizable compartmentalization and temperature maintenance, along with a foldable insulated shell for versatile use and secure item placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If ice packs are placed in the storage container to maintain temperature, then temperature control is improved, but the container contents can shift and move during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature control function and the stabilization function into a single integrated component. The divider is designed with recesses that simultaneously secure the ice pack in place and prevent other container contents from shifting during transport, resolving the contradiction between temperature control and content stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the storage container is designed with fixed compartments, then content organization is improved, but the container cannot be easily reconfigured for different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic, movable dividers that can be repositioned within the container based on user needs. The dividers include engagement features that allow them to be moved between different positions while remaining securely in place, enabling the container to be reconfigured for different uses without complex assembly or disassembly operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dividers are used to separate container contents, then content organization is improved, but the container structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the container into multiple compartments using separate, modular divider components. Each divider is an independent element that can be inserted or removed as needed, allowing flexible compartmentalization without requiring a complex integrated structure. The dividers work together to create organized sections while maintaining overall system simplicity.
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 system effectively maintains desired temperatures for perishable items and securely holds contents during transport, accommodating various configurations and uses, ensuring items remain fresh and secure across different environments.
Implementation Method 1
A configurable storage container system featuring an insulated body with interchangeable dividers and temperature control packs
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable container includes a first divider and a container body. The divider has a divider body and a first projection extending from the divider body, wherein the first projection has a length having a first dimension and a width having a second dimension different than the first dimension. The container body includes a first wall that includes a first groove facing inward toward the internal cavity, wherein the first groove has a width configured to receive the width of the first projection of the first divider in a first orientation. At least one of the first wall and a second wall includes a second groove also facing inward toward the internal cavity, wherein the second groove has a width configured to receive the length of the first projection in a second orientation, wherein the width of the second groove is different than the width of the first groove.