Convertible Lunch Container with Washable Protective Mat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lunch boxes are not washable and thus cannot be sanitized, contributing to the spread of germs when used on contaminated cafeteria tables, particularly in school settings where germ transmission is prevalent.
Innovation Solution
A convertible food carrying container that transforms into a washable placemat, featuring a shell with side panels and fasteners that secure to form a closed position for carrying food and open position as a protective mat, reducing germ exposure by creating a barrier between the user and the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lunch boxes are used, then food carrying function is provided, but they cannot be sanitized and contribute to germ spread
Solution Approach 1:
The lunch box is designed to serve dual functions: as a closed container for carrying food and as an open protective mat for eating. The shell structure can be configured in two states - closed for transport and open as a placemat - allowing the same object to provide both food storage and germ barrier functions during different phases of use
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the container is designed to convert into a protective mat, then germ exposure is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container shell is divided into multiple side panels that can be independently positioned. These panels are connected through fasteners that allow them to be arranged in different configurations - forming a closed box structure for carrying or spreading out as a protective mat surface, enabling transformation without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A carry container is interchangeable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the container converts into a protective mat, such as a placemat, and becomes a barrier against germs. In one embodiment, the carry container includes an outer shell including a bottom panel and four side panels extending from the bottom panel and being configured to releasably attach to each of the two neighboring side panels using a fastener to form a container for carrying one or more items, such as food items. An inner lining formed by a generally square sheet is attached to an inner facing side of the outer shell and defines the protective mat when the outer shell is in an open position and flat on a surface. The container can be easily converted between the closed position (lunch box) and open position (protective mat).