Drinking Container with Ledge-Based Modular Coupling to Storage Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage containers lack efficient and secure coupling mechanisms to modular storage units, particularly in environments like construction sites where stability and ease of use are crucial.
Innovation Solution
The beverage containers are designed with specific coupling mechanisms, such as biasing elements, tabs, and clamps, that securely attach to modular storage units, ensuring stability during movement and easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coupling mechanism is added to the beverage container, then the secure attachment to modular storage units is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a biasing element (spring) that provides radial outward force, and a coupling element with engagement features (ribs, grooves, tabs) that interfaces with the storage unit. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element automatically engages the coupling element with the storage unit when brought into proximity, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or additional actuation mechanisms. The spring-loaded design self-regulates the engagement force, providing reliable attachment without complex control systems.
2Reliability
If a biasing element is used to maintain radial outward force, then the secure attachment is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing element and coupling element are designed to be integrally formed or pre-assembled as a single unit, reducing the number of separate manufacturing steps. The spring mechanism is incorporated directly into the coupling assembly, eliminating the need for separate housing and mounting structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing element uses material selection and geometric design to achieve the required force characteristics. By adjusting spring wire diameter, coil density, and material temper, the radial outward force can be precisely controlled without changing the overall mechanism design, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining performance.
3Reliability
If multiple engagement features are provided, then the secure attachment is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic spring-loaded connection. The biasing element allows for controlled deformation during engagement and detachment, absorbing impact forces and enabling smooth operation. The spring mechanism naturally accommodates misalignment and provides tactile feedback for proper engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring active force to maintain attachment, the design uses passive spring force that automatically engages and maintains connection. Detachment is achieved by simply overcoming the spring force in the opposite direction, reversing the typical approach where continuous force is needed to maintain connection.
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 coupling mechanisms provide secure attachment to modular storage units, maintaining stability during transport and facilitating easy detachment, enhancing usability in environments like construction sites.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing element coupled to a bottom of the storage body... The biasing element biases the bottom surface of the storage body against the modular storage unit when the drinking container is coupled to the modular storage unit
Data Source
AI summary
A container, such as a beverage container, is provided. The container includes a ledge surface that projects away from a bottom surface of the container. The ledge surface is configured to interface with ribs projecting over a recess in a unit, such as a tool storage unit.