Interlocking Panel Basin Structure for Flat-Pack Assembly
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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 transform into useful articles efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular basin apparatus comprising interlocking panels with slots, allowing users to assemble and disassemble a three-dimensional structure with a central cavity, which can be used as a fire pit or grill, and easily stacked for transport or storage, featuring panels with equilateral triangle profiles and truncated corners for alignment and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular devices are designed for assembly and disassembly by users, then they provide versatility and portability, but they become bulky and difficult to assemble at desired locations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple identical panels that can be independently assembled. Each panel contains standardized slots that receive portions of other panels, enabling modular construction. The panels can be stacked for transport and then assembled into various three-dimensional configurations (fire pit, grill, stool, table) based on user needs.
2Volume of moving object
If modular devices are designed to be disassembled for transport, then they achieve small form factor, but they become bulky when assembled
Solution Approach 1:
The panels are designed with a specific planform profile (equilateral triangle with truncated corners) that allows them to stack efficiently in a flat configuration for transport. When assembled, the same panels form three-dimensional structures with central cavities. The dimensional transformation from flat stacked state to three-dimensional assembled state enables small transport footprint while providing functional volume when deployed.
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.