Modular Asset Storage With Atmosphere Control for Long-Term Preservation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage facilities for mechanical assets are inadequate in accommodating assets of varying sizes and shapes, and they fail to control environmental conditions effectively, leading to degradation over time.

Innovation Solution

A modular system with volume definition elements and surface transfer components that allow resizing and atmospheric control, providing a protective barrier and controlled environment for mechanical assets, including authentication and remote monitoring capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional fixed storage facilities are used, then they provide basic protection from environmental conditions, but they cannot accommodate assets of varying sizes and shapes efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of varying asset sizes and shapesVSAvoidstorage facility structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The storage facility is divided into modular components including movable walls, adjustable shelving, and segmented storage units that can be reconfigured to accommodate different asset sizes and shapes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The storage facility incorporates dynamic elements such as movable partitions, adjustable racks, and reconfigurable storage modules that can adapt their configuration based on the specific dimensions and requirements of stored assets

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If traditional storage facilities are used, then they provide basic shelter, but they fail to control environmental conditions effectively, leading to asset degradation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveasset preservationVSAvoidenvironmental control system

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Environmental sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity, and other conditions within the storage facility, feeding data to control systems that automatically adjust HVAC and dehumidification equipment to maintain optimal preservation conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The storage facility incorporates automated environmental control systems that self-regulate temperature and humidity levels through integrated sensors and actuators, maintaining optimal preservation conditions without requiring manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Duration of action of stationary object

If assets are exposed to environmental conditions, then they remain accessible and usable, but they degrade quickly and lose utilitarian value

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveasset lifespanVSAvoidasset accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Assets are prepared for long-term storage through preliminary actions such as cleaning, maintenance, and application of protective coatings before being placed in the controlled environment, extending their lifespan while maintaining accessibility when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11384528B2System and methods for the preservation of mechanical assets

Publication Date: 2022.07.12 GIBBONS

AI summary

A system and methods for the storage, and preservation of mechanical assets, including collectable automobiles, small airplanes and watercraft in a storage unit. The storage unit includes a plurality of asset modules. The volume of each asset module is variable. The atmosphere of each asset module may be controlled by a control system. Control of the atmosphere of each asset module includes control of parameters including the type of gas each atmosphere is composed of and the temperature, the pressure and relative humidity of each atmosphere. These parameters may be monitored and controlled from a remote location.