Foldable Container Shelf Hinges for Faster Folding and Safe Unloading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable containers require multiple steps and complex structural elements for folding and unfolding, leading to inefficiencies in transportation and storage, and often necessitate the removal of shelves to access items below, increasing the risk of loss and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A foldable container design featuring a shelf that extends from one side panel to the other, allowing for a single volume subdivision with fewer structural elements, and a hinge mechanism that simplifies folding by allowing the shelf to be folded against the side panel first, reducing the number of steps required for folding and unfolding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shelves with dedicated mounting means are used to subdivide the container, then the container can be divided into multiple volumes, but the device complexity increases and the folding process requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The single shelf is divided into multiple segments that can be independently folded along fold lines. This segmentation allows the shelf to be compacted into a smaller space when folded, reducing the overall folded volume of the container while maintaining the capability to create multiple storage volumes when extended
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single integrated shelf structure. The shelf combines storage functionality with folding capability and volume division in one component, eliminating the need for separate mounting means and reducing structural complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple shelves with mounting means are used, then the container can be subdivided, but the folding process becomes more time-consuming due to multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is pre-configured with fold lines and hinge connections during manufacturing, so that during folding operations, the shelf automatically follows the predetermined folding path. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual assembly steps and reduces folding time
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf is hinged to the first side panel and can be folded along a first fold line, allowing it to be compacted against the side panel. This dynamic folding capability reduces the time required to collapse the container while maintaining volume subdivision capability when needed
3Reliability
If shelves are mounted with dedicated mounting means, then the shelves can be securely attached, but the number of structural elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf structure merges the shelf body and mounting attachment into a single integrated component. The fold lines and hinge connections serve both as structural support and as mounting mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate L-shaped mounting means and shelf connection means
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf structure performs multiple functions: it provides storage surface, acts as a volume divider, serves as its own mounting mechanism through hinge connections, and enables folding capability. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of structural elements needed in the container
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 design enables faster and more efficient folding and unfolding of the container, minimizing the risk of parts being lost and reducing the need for manual handling, while allowing safe unloading without dismantling the entire structure.
Implementation Method 1
a shelf (15) which is hinged to the first side panel (4)
Data Source
AI summary
The current invention relates to a foldable container comprising a pallet and a foldable sidewall, wherein the pallet forms a loading surface, wherein the foldable sidewall is a rectangular tube with open ends formed by a first, a second, a third and a fourth side panel, wherein the foldable sidewall is detachable installable on the pallet in order to define a loadable volume, wherein the foldable container comprises a shelf suitable to be loaded with objects, wherein the shelf is hinged to the first side panel, wherein the shelf comprises a first fold line parallel to the first side panel, wherein the foldable container comprises support means to support the shelf at the second side panel, opposite to the first side panel. The invention also relates to a method and a kit.