Storage Container with Integrated Foldable Mat

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage containers for toys and objects lack a user-friendly integration with activity mats, leading to scattered and lost parts during play, and inefficient storage solutions.

Innovation Solution

A storage container with an integrated, foldably storable mat that can be easily pulled out for activities and rolled back into the container, featuring a receptacle with a mat that transforms into a chute for easy object retrieval and storage, available in forms such as baskets, drawstring pouches, and backpacks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If a storage container is used to hold toys and objects, then storage capability is improved, but parts become scattered and lost during play

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidparts lost

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the storage container and play mat into a single integrated unit. The mat is stored within the container and deployed during play, while the container walls remain in place to contain small parts. This merging eliminates the need to transfer parts between separate storage and play areas, preventing loss of small components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The container serves multiple functions: it acts as both a storage vessel for toys and small parts, and as a structural frame that supports the play mat. The walls of the container provide containment during play activities, while the integrated mat provides a safe play surface. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the same structure serve both storage and play containment purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate storage containers and mats are used, then storage and play functions are provided, but user effort and time are increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage and play functionsVSAvoiduser effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the mat and container into one unit, the patent eliminates the time-consuming process of transferring toys between separate storage and play areas. The mat deploys over the container opening, creating an immediate play surface without requiring users to move parts elsewhere.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mat is pre-stored within the container in a folded state, ready for immediate deployment. When play time arrives, the mat can be quickly unfolded and positioned over the container opening, eliminating the need for setup time associated with separate mats and storage containers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If toys are dumped on the floor for play, then play activities are enabled, but parts scatter into traffic areas causing injury

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplay activitiesVSAvoidinjury risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The container walls serve dual purposes: they provide structural support for the integrated mat while simultaneously acting as barriers to contain small parts during play. This prevents toys from scattering into surrounding traffic areas, eliminating the injury risk associated with playing on the floor while maintaining ease of play activities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11154128B2Storage container with an integrated mat

Publication Date: 2021.10.26 DEBCO LLC

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention discloses a storage container with an integrated mat. The storage container includes a receptacle for holding various objects (Eg. toys, crafts, games), and the mat is foldably storable inside the container, wherein the mat is configured in a way such that the mat can be pulled out of the container for performing various activities using the objects, and once done, the objects can be rolled back into the storage container with great ease.