Fold-Down Multiple Cavity Divider for Collapsible Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage containers for fragile and non-fragile items are bulky and cannot be reduced in size for easy storage, requiring additional space when not in use, and lack the ability to expand for protection during storage or transport.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible storage container system featuring a base member with one or more one-piece multiple cavity dividers that can be permanently or removably attached, allowing the dividers to fold down into a flat position for storage and expand into separate compartments for secure item support and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a storage container is designed with separate spaces and cushioning members for protecting fragile items, then item protection capability is improved, but the container size and storage space requirements worsen when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The partition is designed to be movable between an extended position that creates separate protective compartments and a retracted position that minimizes container volume. The partition can be folded or collapsed to reduce the container's footprint when not in use, while maintaining full protective capability when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The container is divided into multiple cavities or compartments by the movable partition, allowing separate storage and protection of multiple items. The partition itself can be segmented into foldable sections that allow compact storage when retracted
2Quantity of substance
If a storage container is designed to be large and bulky to accommodate multiple items with cushioning, then storage capacity is improved, but ease of storage when not in use worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The container incorporates a movable partition that can be extended to create multiple storage compartments when needed, and retracted to allow the container to be collapsed into a compact flat state for easy storage. This dynamic configuration allows the container to adapt its capacity and footprint based on usage requirements
3Adaptability or versatility
If a storage container is designed with fixed partitions for multiple cavities, then item organization capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The partition is divided into multiple collapsible or foldable sections that can be easily manufactured and assembled. When extended, these sections create multiple organized compartments; when retracted, they fold into a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining organizational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The partition transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic movable structure that can be extended or retracted. This allows the same structure to provide multiple cavities for organization when needed, while simplifying to a compact form that reduces manufacturing complexity and assembly difficulty
Data Source
AI summary
An improved collapsible container configured with a base member and at least one multiple cavity or compartment divider either permanently or removably attached to the base member at a pivot point. The multiple cavity divider is configured to close into a relatively flat portion that can be rotated about the pivot point and positioned against the base portion in a storage state, and the multiple cavity divider is configured to be expanded into an open position about the pivot point to create a number of separate cavities. Further, the base member is configured to provide support for the bottom of each of the cavities when the multiple cavity divider is in the expanded position, and the base member is configured to provide support for the multiple cavity divider when it is in the fold down or storage position.