Modular Storage Container Panels with Interlocking Protrusions
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for lightweight, strong, modular, and customizable storage containers that can be stacked vertically or horizontally, nested internally, and made from interchangeable parts for efficient transportation and storage, while also being economically viable and available in varying sizes.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage container system comprising panels with notched ends and joining elements, such as male and female protrusions and receptacles, along with slideable rods and corner blocks, allowing for easy assembly and customization, and a kit that includes these components for assembly into storage assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional shipping containers are used, then strength and durability are improved, but weight increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple panels that can be assembled together to form the complete structure. Each panel is a separate component that can be manufactured independently and then joined using corner blocks and joining elements, allowing for optimized weight distribution while maintaining overall structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are constructed using composite material structures that provide high strength-to-weight ratios. The combination of panel materials with the joining elements and corner blocks creates a composite system that achieves required strength while minimizing overall container weight.
2Strength
If traditional shipping containers are used, then strength and durability are improved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The container structure is segmented into standardized panels that can be manufactured using consistent processes. This segmentation allows for economies of scale in panel production and simplifies quality control, reducing overall manufacturing cost while maintaining strength through the standardized joining system.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner blocks and joining elements serve multiple functions: they connect panels, provide structural reinforcement, enable disassembly and reassembly, and allow for customization. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing while ensuring structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size containers are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability and space utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The container is constructed from modular panels that can be arranged in different configurations. This segmentation allows the same panel components to create containers of various sizes and shapes, providing adaptability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through repeated use of standardized parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The container system is designed to be dynamic and reconfigurable rather than fixed. Panels can be assembled and disassembled to adapt to different storage and transportation needs, allowing the container to change its configuration while being manufactured from the same standardized components.
4Ease of manufacture
If non-modular containers are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but stackability and space efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The corner blocks are designed with universal connection features that enable multiple functions: joining panels within a container, reinforcing corners for structural strength, and providing interface elements for stacking and nesting. This universality allows simple manufacturing of standardized components while achieving excellent stackability and space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular panel and corner block construction allows containers to be nested within each other when empty, maximizing space utilization during storage and transportation. The standardized joining elements enable secure nesting while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through repeated use of the same components.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a modular storage container system, kit, and method of using that includes standardized panels, joining protrusions, rods and corner blocks to form a durable multi-functional modular storage.