Pivotable Side Latch for Modular Container Securement and Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container storage systems lack efficiency, ease of use, modularity, and multifunctionality, necessitating improvements for better performance in transporting articles between working locations.
Innovation Solution
A rolling container assembly with adjustable storage units, featuring rotatable wheels, a manually engageable pulling handle, and a frame with mount structures that allow for the connection and adjustment of multiple containers of different configurations, enabling secure and flexible transportation of articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If containers are connected to form a storage system, then productivity and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple connection points and securing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The container connection system is divided into separate functional components: pivotable side latches on individual containers and corresponding retaining structures on the cart or other containers. This segmentation allows each container to be independently secured while maintaining overall system functionality, reducing the complexity burden on any single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable side latch combines multiple functions into a single mechanism: it serves as both the securing element that engages with the retaining structure and the releasing element when pivoted open. The lid integrates the latch mechanism, combining closure and securing functions, thereby reducing the number of separate components needed in the connection system.
2Reliability
If multiple securing mechanisms are added to containers, then reliability of container connection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to more complex latching procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable side latch is spring-biased to automatically engage with the retaining structure when the lid is closed, providing self-securing functionality. The container secures itself to the cart or other containers without requiring manual intervention for the latching action, maintaining reliability while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable side latch serves multiple functions: it secures the lid to the container body, engages with retaining structures on both the cart and adjacent containers, and provides a visual indicator of secured status. This multi-functionality achieves reliable securement without adding separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If containers are designed to be modular and adjustable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to adjustable mount structures
Solution Approach 1:
The mount structures incorporate adjustable height positions and pivotable orientations, allowing the retaining structures to be dynamically repositioned to accommodate different container sizes and configurations. This dynamic adjustability provides versatility without requiring completely different mounting systems for each container type.
Solution Approach 2:
The mount structures are designed to universally accommodate multiple container configurations through adjustable retaining structures. The same mount structure can secure different container sizes and types by repositioning the retaining structures, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounting systems and reducing overall device complexity.
4Reliability
If pivotable side latches are added to containers, then reliability of container connection is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable side latch mechanism is merged with the lid structure, using the lid's closing motion to drive the latch engagement. The spring mechanism that provides biasing force is integrated into the latch assembly, combining the securing function with the closing action and eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased pivotable side latch automatically engages with the retaining structure when the lid is closed, requiring no additional manual intervention. The mechanism self-regulates its engagement force through the spring bias, providing reliable connection without complex control systems or multiple adjustment components.
Data Source
AI summary
A container constructed and arranged to be connected to other containers is provided. In an embodiment, the container may comprise a container portion with an opening into an interior space in which articles to be transported can be stored; a lid for closing the opening; a handle for carrying the container; a front latch for securing the lid to the container portion; and a pivotable side latch, pivotally connected to the lid, that is 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 lid may comprise a depression, and the pivotable side latch may be further configured to be in the depression when the pivotable side latch is in the storage position. The container portion may comprise a retaining structure with an upward-facing lip that is configured to engage a pivotable side latch of a further container to facilitate securement of the container with the further container.