Interlocking Identical Plates for Stackable Locking Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers and receptacles typically consist of different shaped structures for the main container and the cover/lid, lacking a mateable plate apparatus with identical plates that can complementarily and lockingly mate together, functioning as either the cover/lid or the main container.
Innovation Solution
A mateable plate apparatus comprising a pair of identical plates with protrusions, slots, and locking dimples that securely fit together, providing tactile feedback and allowing easy stacking and unstacking, with the plates being able to function as either the cover or the main container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional containers use different shaped structures for main container and cover, then the container can be formed, but the structure complexity increases and versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by creating complementary asymmetric features on identical plates - one plate has a protrusion while its mate has a corresponding recess, allowing asymmetric interlocking between symmetric plates. This enables the identical plates to function interchangeably as either container or cover while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing identical plates that can serve multiple functions - each plate can act as either the main container or the cover depending on which plate is placed where. The complementary protrusion-recess features on identical plates enable this bidirectional functionality, eliminating the need for different specialized components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If identical plates are used for both container and cover, then versatility improves, but the locking mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the locking function into separate modular elements - a protrusion on one plate and a corresponding recess on the other plate. This segmentation allows identical plates to achieve secure interlocking through simple complementary features rather than complex integrated locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by having the protrusion of one plate fit into the recess of the other plate, creating a nested interlocking configuration. This simple nesting mechanism enables secure locking of identical plates without requiring complex fastening systems.
3Reliability
If plates are designed for secure locking, then reliability improves, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by designing the locking mechanism to engage automatically through gravity and simple alignment rather than requiring active fastening actions. The protrusion-recess configuration allows plates to lock securely when stacked while maintaining ease of operation through simple alignment and natural engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
The present fliptop plates apparatus relates generally to a mateable plate apparatus and more particularly to an improved plate apparatus comprising a working surface of a first plate which complimentarily and lockingly can be mated with a working surface of a companion plate to form a receptacle, wherein preferably both plates have identical working surfaces, the plates may provide tactile feedback to users of the mateable plate apparatus, and the plates may be easily and optimally both stacked and unstacked.