Modular Container Nesting with Interlocking Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container storage systems lack efficiency, ease of use, modularity, and multifunctionality, necessitating improvements to meet the diverse needs of businesses and consumers.
Innovation Solution
A modular container assembly system featuring containers with interlocking mechanisms, including dual locating devices and a latching mechanism, allowing for nesting and secure stacking, as well as reconfigurable arrangements to form a sturdy and integral storage unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If containers are designed to be nested and connected together, then storage efficiency and organization are improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple interlocking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by allowing smaller containers to be placed inside larger containers, with locating projections on outer containers fitting into locating recesses on inner containers. This enables vertical stacking and space optimization while maintaining individual container functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The container system is divided into modular units with standardized locating features (projections and recesses) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each container acts as a separate module that can be configured in different arrangements, improving storage efficiency without requiring a complex integrated system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple locating devices are added to prevent movement between containers, then connection stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locating projections and recesses are designed with asymmetric geometries that provide stable positioning in specific orientations. The projections have shaped surfaces that fit into corresponding recesses, preventing movement in multiple directions while using simple geometric forms rather than complex mechanical constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The locating projections and recesses are designed to automatically align and secure containers together through gravity and geometric interlocking, without requiring additional fastening operations or complex adjustment mechanisms. The containers self-position when stacked, reducing the need for active stabilization systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If containers are designed as modular units that can be reconfigured, then adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to assembly and disassembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The locating projections and recesses are pre-formed during manufacturing, eliminating the need for field assembly or adjustment. Containers are designed to be dropped into place rather than requiring threaded fasteners, clips, or other complex joining operations, maintaining ease of operation while enabling reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The container system allows dynamic reconfiguration where containers can be easily added, removed, or repositioned based on storage needs. The locating mechanisms provide stable connection when assembled but allow simple disassembly by lifting containers vertically, enabling adaptable storage arrangements without permanent fixtures.
Data Source
AI summary
A container assembly system includes two containers that are nestingly engaged on top of each other. Each has a cooperating male locating projection and a female locating recess. The male locating projection of one of the containers fits in the female locating recess of the other container and the male locating projection of such one container fits in the female locating recess of such other container.