Modular Transportable Container With Pivoting Side Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container storage systems lack efficiency, ease of use, modularity, and multifunctionality, necessitating improvements for better performance and versatility.
Innovation Solution
A transportable container designed with a pivotable side latch that engages a retaining structure of another container, allowing secure connection and easy handling, along with a handle and latches for secure closure, enabling modular and versatile storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If containers are designed to be connected to other containers for modular storage, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The container connection system is divided into separate functional components: a pivotable side latch mechanism on one container and a corresponding retaining structure on another container. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while providing modular connectivity between containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable side latch is designed to perform multiple functions: it secures the lid to the container body, engages with retaining structures on other containers for modular connection, and can be positioned in different states (engaged, disengaged, intermediate) to provide versatile connection options.
2Reliability
If a pivotable side latch is added for secure container connection, then reliability of connection is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The side latch is designed as a pivotable mechanism that can dynamically transition between different positions: an engaged position where it secures to the retaining structure for reliable connection, and a disengaged position for easy separation. This dynamic capability provides reliable connection when needed while maintaining simplicity for when connection is not required.
3Strength
If multiple latches and retaining structures are implemented for secure modular connection, then strength of connection is improved, but ease of operation decreases due to more components to manipulate
Solution Approach 1:
The lid closure function is extracted and handled by a dedicated front latch mechanism, while the modular connection function is handled by the pivotable side latch and retaining structure. This separation allows the side latch to be operated independently for container-to-container connection without requiring manipulation of the lid closure latch, improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a transportable container may include a container portion with an opening into an interior space; a lid for closing the opening; a handle for carrying the container; and a pivotable side latch, pivotally connected to the lid, moveable between a retaining position and a storage position. The pivotable side latch may be configured to engage a retaining structure of another container when the pivotable side latch is in the retaining position. The pivotable side latch may be configured to be in a depression of the lid when the pivotable side latch is in the storage position. With the container in an upright position, the pivotable side latch may move toward the depression when the pivotable side latch is released from the retaining position. The container portion may include a retaining structure with an upward-projecting lip configured to engage a pivotable side latch of a further container.