Interlocking Panel Basin Assembly for Compact Storage and Field Use
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular devices for assembly and disassembly by users are often bulky and difficult to assemble at desired locations, lacking the flexibility to transition between a compact form factor for storage or transport and a larger assembled form for use.
Innovation Solution
A modular basin apparatus comprising interlocking panels with equilateral triangle profiles and truncated corners, featuring slots for alignment and assembly, allowing users to easily assemble and disassemble a three-dimensional structure with a central cavity, which can be used as a fire pit or grill, and subsequently disassemble into a flat stack of panels for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular devices are designed to be assembled and disassembled by users, then they provide flexibility for storage and transport, but they become bulky and difficult to assemble at desired locations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple discrete panels that can be independently handled and assembled. Each panel is a separate component that interlocks with others through slots, enabling modular assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
Slots are provided as intermediary features on each panel that facilitate connection between panels. These slots act as mediators that guide the assembly process and enable easy interlocking without complex fastening mechanisms
2Volume of moving object
If modular devices are designed with a small form factor for transport, then they are easy to store and transport, but they cannot accommodate the larger form factor needed for use
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static compact form during transport to a dynamic expanded three-dimensional structure during use. The panels can be easily reconfigured from a flat stacked arrangement to an assembled basin structure, providing adaptability between different form factors
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes dimensional transformation by stacking panels in a flat two-dimensional arrangement for transport, then assembling them into a three-dimensional basin structure for use. This dimensional change enables compact storage while maintaining functional volume when needed
Data Source
AI summary
A modular basin apparatus includes a first panel, a second panel and a third panel. The panels include a plurality of slots that receive portions of the other panels. A user may assemble the panels to form a three-dimensional basin apparatus. A concave cavity is formed on the upper side of the apparatus when assembled, and the cavity may be receive materials depending on the application of the assembly. In some embodiments, the apparatus may be used as a modular fire pit, chair, table, or other device. A fourth panel may rest against the first, second and third panels to provide an upper surface. In some embodiments, all panels include the same planform profile and outer dimensions such that they may be stacked in an arrangement having a uniform outer profile for improved transport and storage.