Interlocking Storage Containers With Automatic Latch Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved interlocking mobile storage system that allows containers to be stackable and interlockable with one another atop a movable cart.
Innovation Solution
The system comprises a first storage container with a latch having a biasing member and a pivot, which is pivotable between engaged and disengaged positions, and a second storage container with a recess featuring an overhang, allowing the latch to engage with the overhang for secure stacking and interlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If storage containers are made stackable and interlockable with latches, then stability and security of stacking is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional latch mechanisms and recesses
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the recess when containers are stacked, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The biasing member provides automatic return to the engaged position, making the system self-regulating and reducing operational complexity despite the mechanical components present.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member acts as an intermediary element between the latch and the container structure, providing the necessary force to maintain engagement without requiring complex control systems. This simple mechanical intermediary resolves the contradiction by maintaining stability through a passive, reliable force mechanism.
2Reliability
If a latch mechanism with biasing member is used to secure containers, then reliability of the interlocking connection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the force required to overcome the biasing member
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the latch arm, the biasing member, and the engagement surface. This segmentation allows the biasing member to provide reliable engagement force while the latch arm's pivot design enables easy manual override. Users can disengage by applying force at the latch arm's end, creating a mechanical advantage that offsets the biasing member's resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to pivot freely during assembly and then lock into a stable engaged position. The biasing member creates a dynamic system where the latch can be easily moved to disengage but automatically returns to the engaged position, providing both ease of operation and reliability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If containers are designed to interlock securely, then stability of the stacked configuration is improved, but ease of disassembly worsens due to the secure engagement mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed so that the secure engagement is the default state maintained by the biasing member, while disengagement is achieved through a simple inverse action: applying upward force to the latch arm. This inversion principle allows the system to maintain stable configuration automatically while enabling easy disassembly when needed, as the user simply reverses the engagement motion.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables secure, stable stacking and interlocking of containers, facilitating easy assembly and disassembly, and allows for the containers to be moved as a single unit, enhancing mobility and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The latch comprises a biasing member and a pivot, wherein the latch is pivotable between an engaged position and a disengaged position and the biasing member biases the latch to the engaged position
Data Source
AI summary
An interlocking mobile storage system, comprising a first storage container and a second storage container. The first storage container comprises a latch disposed on a side of the first storage container. The latch comprises a biasing member and a pivot, wherein the latch is pivotable between an engaged position and a disengaged position and the biasing member biases the latch to the engaged position. The second storage container comprises a recess comprising an overhang. The first storage container is disposed on a top of the second storage container and the latch is in the engaged position, is engaged with, and is disposed in the overhang of the recess.