Modular Collapsible Tote With Snap Lock Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional containers are not fully collapsible, stowable, divisible, and stackable, failing to meet the needs of users who require adaptable storage solutions for managing changing quantities of materials at workstations while being cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A modular tote container constructed from a small number of components, allowing quick partition and reconfiguration into various geometries, with features like L-shaped brackets, detachable side panels, and snap locks for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling one-man portability and minimal tool requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional containers are used, then they provide basic storage functionality, but they are not fully collapsible, stowable, divisible, and stackable
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple detachable components including side panels, end panels, base panels, and dividers that can be separated and reconfigured. Each component features standardized slots and tabs that enable easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining structural integrity when connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The container transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The side panels can be detached and repositioned, dividers can be removed or added, and the entire container can be collapsed flat for storage, allowing the structure to adapt between operational and storage states.
2Adaptability or versatility
If containers are made adaptable with multiple configurations, then they can meet changing storage needs, but they become more complex and difficult to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
Each component is designed with universal connection features - slots on panels can receive tabs from any perpendicular panel, allowing the same basic components to create different container configurations. The standardized interface enables side panels, end panels, and dividers to interchangeably connect to the base panel.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are combined into single components. For example, side panels integrate both structural support and divider functionality, while the base panel incorporates multiple slots for different panel attachments. This reduces the total number of separate parts needed.
3Ease of operation
If containers are made collapsible and detachable, then they are easier to store and transport, but they may lose structural strength
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism uses nested tab-and-slot joints where tabs fit into recessed slots, creating interlocking connections that distribute mechanical loads. Multiple slots per panel allow for redundant connection points, maintaining structural integrity even when some connections are detached for reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular, multiconfigurable container adapted to collapse for stowability and portability which is capable of being arranged in several geometries; whereby the container is operable to enable a user to assembly the container without tools, screws or external fasteners, and customize the container with minimal effort and skillset requirements for assemblage, so as to enable a user to customize said container for optimal stowing of categorized items in multiple interior bins, the container further configured to facilitate disassembly and stowage, one-man portability, and minimal tool and skillset requirements for assemblage. In various embodiments, the side panels and base panel are affixed together using a live hinge. The tote container further operates to allow a user to apply labels forwardly and rearwardly on the container within a recess adapted for that purpose.