Flexible Bulk Container with Detachable Support Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current waste management systems using roll-off dumpster containers are inefficient as they require single-container transport, have fixed volumes, and generate environmental pollutants, and existing flexible bulk containers lack a practical support structure for maintaining an open position during loading and unloading.
Innovation Solution
A flexible bulk container with a support structure comprising elongate frame elements that are detachable and resilient, allowing the container to be maintained in a generally open position for loading and unloading, and can be easily transferred between containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support structures are permanently attached to flexible bulk containers, then the container maintains structural integrity and open position, but the device complexity increases and the container cannot be easily collapsed for transport
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into separate modular components including frame elements, corner pieces, and base pieces that can be independently attached and detached from the container walls, allowing the support structure to be segmented for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic configurable system where frame elements can be selectively attached or detached from container walls, enabling the structure to adapt between providing support during use and being collapsed for transport
2Device complexity
If flexible bulk containers are used without support structures, then the device complexity is reduced and transport is easier, but the container cannot maintain an open position during loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to be self-supporting through interconnected frame elements, corner pieces, and base pieces that collectively maintain the container in an open position without requiring external support mechanisms or additional operational intervention
3Stability of the object's composition
If roll-off dumpster containers are used, then the container maintains fixed volume and structural stability, but vehicle emissions increase and environmental impact worsens due to single-container transport
Solution Approach 1:
The container uses flexible bulk container walls made of fabric or flexible material instead of rigid metal construction, allowing the container to be collapsed when empty for efficient transport back to collection points, thereby reducing the number of trips required and lowering environmental impact while maintaining structural stability when in use through the attached support structure
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
This solution enables efficient loading and unloading of materials, reduces environmental impact by minimizing vehicle emissions and dust, and allows for continuous operation without the need for constant container replacement, promoting a more sustainable waste management system.
Implementation Method 1
The frame elements may be flexible and resilient. A first one of the frame elements may extend diagonally generally between a first lower corner of the at least one of the side walls and a first upper corner opposite from the first lower corner. A longitudinal dimension of the first one of the frame elements may be greater than a diagonal dimension between the first lower and upper corners, so that the first one of the frame elements is in a flexed condition and biases the first lower and upper corners away from one another.
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible bulk container includes side walls coupled to a bottom wall. The side walls and the bottom wall generally enclose an interior space that is accessible through a top of the flexible bulk container for loading materials therein. A support structure includes elongate frame elements. Each of the frame elements may be attached to at least one of the side walls and is configured to support the at least one of the side walls generally upright so that the flexible bulk container is maintained in a generally open position. Each of the frame elements may be detachable from the respective at least one of the side walls. The flexible bulk containers and the support structures may be used in a waste management system for loading and sorting of bulk waste materials.