Interlinked Folding Frame for Tool-Free Collapsible Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible storage compartments are often difficult and time-consuming to erect and collapse, often requiring tools like screwdrivers and hammers, which deters users from purchasing and utilizing them.
Innovation Solution
A foldable storage compartment design featuring front and rear panels that can be traversed closer or further apart, with interlinked shelves and side panels that pivot about aligned axes, allowing for easy erection and collapse without the need for tools, and optionally including a top cover that pivots for access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional collapsible storage compartments are designed to be foldable, then they can be collapsed for storage, but they become difficult and time-consuming to erect and collapse, often requiring tools
Solution Approach 1:
The storage compartment is divided into multiple panels (front, rear, left side, right side) that can be independently folded along predetermined fold lines. Each panel is segmented into sections that can move relative to each other, enabling the entire structure to collapse into a compact configuration while maintaining ease of operation through simple folding motions without requiring tools.
2Strength
If collapsible storage compartments use rigid connections for structural integrity, then they maintain strength, but they require tools like screwdrivers and hammers to assemble and disassemble
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between panels transitions from static rigid joints to dynamic foldable joints. Each panel is connected to adjacent panels through fold lines that allow relative movement between sections. This dynamic connection maintains structural integrity when the compartment is in its erected position while enabling easy collapse by simply folding along the predetermined fold lines, eliminating the need for complex assembly tools.
3Ease of operation
If storage compartments are designed to collapse without tools, then they become easier to operate, but they may compromise structural rigidity and stability
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting each panel into multiple sections connected by fold lines, the structure achieves a balance between flexibility and rigidity. When erected, the panels form a stable rectangular prism structure that maintains structural integrity. When collapsing, the segmented design allows each section to fold independently along predetermined fold lines, enabling tool-free operation while preserving sufficient structural rigidity during use.
Data Source
AI summary
Foldable storage compartment having front and rear panels that are traversable closer to or further away from each other is disclosed. Left and right side collapsible panels may be attached to the front and rear panels. The shelves of the foldable storage compartment may be interlinked with each other by way of a vertical linkage rod and connected to the front panel with a front panel linkage so that traversal of the front and rear panels closer to or further away from each other will also collapse and erect the shelves simultaneously.