Modular Storage Coupling Platform with Sliding Latch Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular storage systems lack efficient mechanisms for securely coupling and decoupling storage units from work surfaces like tables or benches, making it difficult to manage and transport tools and equipment effectively.
Innovation Solution
The development of a coupling platform with male couplers, a securing element, and a latch mechanism that allows for secure engagement and disengagement of storage units by sliding the lower base portion relative to the upper base portion, enabling easy handling and transport of decoupled units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coupling platform is used to secure storage units to work surfaces, then the storage units are firmly attached and stable, but it becomes difficult to quickly detach and transport the storage units
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling platform employs a dynamic latch mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. The latch is biased by a spring to engage with the storage unit, providing secure attachment during use. When force is applied to the release mechanism, the latch pivots to disengage, enabling quick detachment. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction between stable attachment and easy detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary release mechanism that mediates between the user and the latch. This mechanism includes a lever or button that, when actuated, transfers force to the latch through a linkage system. The intermediary allows the user to easily trigger latch disengagement without directly manipulating the latch itself, simplifying the detachment operation while maintaining secure attachment during normal use.
2Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then the storage units remain fixed, but users require two hands to detach them, reducing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling platform incorporates a self-service release mechanism where the storage unit itself can be used to trigger latch disengagement. When the user pulls on the storage unit, the force is transmitted through the engagement surfaces to automatically actuate the release mechanism and pivot the latch open. This allows one-handed operation where the user simply pulls the storage unit to detach it, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of separate release components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary force transmission mechanism that converts the pulling force applied to the storage unit into latch disengagement. This includes linkage elements or cam surfaces that translate the linear motion of pulling the storage unit into the rotational motion needed to open the latch. The intermediary mechanism enables efficient force transfer, allowing rapid detachment with minimal effort and one hand.
3Ease of operation
If storage units are frequently detached for transport, then mobility is improved, but the coupling mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling platform is segmented into distinct functional components: a base plate that attaches to the work surface, a latch mechanism for securing, and a release mechanism for detachment. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the system to achieve frequent detachability while keeping each individual component relatively simple, avoiding the need for a monolithic complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism uses simple dynamic elements such as springs and pivoting arms that provide the necessary locking and releasing functions through basic mechanical motion. The spring provides continuous biasing force for engagement, while the pivoting arm allows smooth transition between locked and unlocked states. These dynamic elements achieve frequent attach/detach operations without requiring complex control systems or multiple actuating mechanisms.
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.