Modular Storage Coupling Platform with Latch-Assisted Decoupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular storage systems lack efficient mechanisms for securely coupling and decoupling storage units to work surfaces, such as the undersides of benches or tables, which can complicate the handling and transportation of tools and equipment.
Innovation Solution
The coupling platform features a base portion with male couplers, a securing element, and a latch mechanism that allows for secure engagement and easy disengagement of storage units by sliding or pivoting actions, enabling hands-free support during decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure coupling mechanism is implemented to firmly attach storage units to work surfaces, then coupling reliability is improved, but the complexity of the coupling mechanism increases and makes decoupling more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate functional components: male couplers with tongues that engage with female couplers, and a separate latch mechanism with projections. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, maintaining reliability while reducing overall complexity and enabling easy decoupling by simply releasing the latch.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is pre-configured with projections that automatically engage with corresponding features on the storage unit during the coupling process. This preliminary action ensures secure attachment without requiring complex manual operations, and the pre-positioned latch facilitates quick decoupling when released.
2Reliability
If a secure coupling mechanism is implemented to firmly attach storage units, then coupling reliability is improved, but ease of operation during decoupling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is extracted as a separate, independently operable component from the main coupling structure. The latch can be released and actuated separately from the male-female coupler engagement, allowing users to easily decouple storage units by simply operating the latch without needing to manipulate the entire coupling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage through simple user input. When the user actuates the latch release, the projection automatically disengages from the storage unit, and the spring-loaded mechanism provides automatic resetting, reducing the operational effort required for decoupling.
3Ease of operation
If the coupling mechanism requires manual handling during decoupling, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases due to additional handling time
Solution Approach 1:
The manual handling and positioning operations are replaced by a slideable lower base portion mechanism that automatically moves into place and engages with the work surface. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for manual alignment and positioning, maintaining operational simplicity while significantly improving decoupling efficiency through automated mechanical action.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower base portion is designed to be slideable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically move into engagement with the work surface during coupling and to be easily displaced during decoupling. This dynamic design enables quick, efficient operation without requiring complex manual manipulation, thereby improving productivity while maintaining ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the coupling platforms described herein are usable to couple storage units, such as modular storage units, to structures, such as to the undersides of benches or tables. One or more of the coupling platforms described herein facilitate the user supporting a newly-disengaged support unit. For example, one or more of the coupling platforms permit the user to place their hands on both sides of the storage unit to complete a disengagement between the coupling platform and the storage unit.