Foldable container and foldable supporting frame thereof, and folding method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable containers and supporting frames are cumbersome to fold, require multiple steps, and often lack stability, making them impractical for storage and daily use, especially in urban settings where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A foldable container system featuring a foldable supporting frame with a single operation switch that allows for easy conversion between unfolded and folded modes, enabling the container to be automatically folded and unfolded without tools, and providing stability when in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the container is made rigid and large in size to provide sufficient space for use, then the usability and comfort are improved, but the storage space requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into a flexible container body and a separate foldable supporting frame. The frame can be folded into a compact configuration that fits within or alongside the container body, allowing the large usage space to be achieved when assembled while minimizing storage space when disassembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic foldable structure with movable joints. The frame can be assembled into a stable supporting configuration during use and folded into a compact configuration for storage, adapting its form factor to match the operational requirements.
2Volume of stationary object
If the foldable supporting frame is designed with multiple components and complex folding mechanisms to achieve compact storage, then the storage space is reduced, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable supporting frame is designed as an integrated assembly where the folding arms, supporting legs, and connection structures are combined into a unified structure. This allows the entire frame to be folded and unfolded as a single unit through one pulling action, eliminating the need for multiple separate folding operations while maintaining compact storage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism utilizes the container body itself as the actuating force. When the container body is pulled or expanded, it automatically drives the supporting frame to unfold into its supporting configuration. Conversely, when the container body is compressed or folded, the frame automatically folds into its compact storage configuration without requiring separate manual operations.
3Ease of operation
If the foldable supporting frame is designed to be easily folded with minimal steps, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability and reliability during use may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting frame is pre-assembled as an integrated unit with all folding joints and connection structures prepared in advance. The frame maintains a predetermined stable geometric configuration when unfolded, with cross-bracing and joint arrangements that inherently provide structural rigidity and load-bearing capability without requiring additional stabilization steps during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable container includes a foldable supporting frame, at least one operation switch arranged on the foldable supporting frame, and a container body supported on the foldable supporting frame. The operation switch is actuated through a pulling operation to move the foldable supporting frame between an unfolded mode and a folded mode. The container has an edge and an opening formed within the edge. At the unfolded mode, the opening is opened. At the folded mode, the opening is closed. The container body is automatically folded as the foldable supporting frame is moved from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. Via a folding method, the foldable supporting frame is folded to reduce an overall size for occupying less storage space when it is not in use.