Folding Basket With Pivoting Frames for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage baskets are non-foldable, occupying significant space when not in use, leading to storage inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A folding basket design with pivot connectors, locking members, and accommodating portions that allow the side frame panels to fold inward, facilitated by a locking mechanism that releases and locks the panels for compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the basket is made non-foldable for structural simplicity, then the structure is easier to manufacture, but the basket occupies large volume when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The basket is divided into multiple frame panels (first side frame panel, second side frame panel, bottom frame panel) that can be relative to each other. Each panel is connected through pivot connectors, allowing independent movement and folding of each segment while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The basket transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic foldable structure. The pivot connectors enable the frame panels to rotate and fold inward, transforming the basket volume from expanded to compact state based on usage needs.
2Volume of moving object
If the basket is made foldable to reduce volume, then storage efficiency improves, but the locking mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to automatically engage with the frame panel edges when the panel is in its extended position, providing self-locking functionality. The elastic limiting portion automatically engages with the limiting plate to prevent excessive folding, eliminating the need for external locking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary element between the frame panel and the limiting plate. It translates the mechanical motion of the frame panel into locking engagement, providing a simple yet effective locking mechanism without requiring complex external systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking member is added to enable folding, then the basket becomes foldable, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the locking action, the elastic limiting portion provides the stop mechanism, and the handle portion provides user interface. This merging reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the manufacturing process while achieving the desired folding capability.
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
Enables compact storage by allowing the basket to fold when not in use, enhancing storage efficiency and usability on bicycle rear racks.
Implementation Method 1
A first side frame panel is pivoted to the first bottom frame. The first side frame panel has multiple first pivot parts located at a bottom thereof and corresponding to the multiple first pivot connectors.
Implementation Method 2
Two ends of the locking members are respectively engaged with side edges of the first side frame panel and the second side frame panel.
Implementation Method 3
An elastic limiting portion is located between the handle portion and the locking portion. The elastic limiting portion engages with the limiting plate when the rod body is pushed to the right.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding basket includes a bottom frame panel having a first bottom frame and a second bottom frame on each long and short sides. A first side frame panel is pivoted to the first bottom frame. A second side frame panel is pivoted to the second bottom frame. Two accommodating portions are horizontally recessed in an outer side of the first side frame panel. A locking member is horizontally and movably installed in each accommodating portion. Two ends of the locking members are respectively engaged with side edges of the first and second side frame panels. When the locking members are pulled, the locking relationship between the two ends of the locking members and the side edges of the first and second side frame panels is released, so that the first side frame panel and the second side frame panel are foldable inward sequentially.