Point-Symmetric Container Coupling for Orientation-Free Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for storing and transporting objects are difficult to manage in storage systems with multiple shelf compartments due to orientation-dependent coupling requirements, leading to complex tracking and handling issues, especially when transported multiple times.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring point-symmetrically arranged coupling elements on side walls that allow mechanical coupling with other identical containers, enabling easy removal and movement by transmitting tensile forces regardless of orientation, facilitated by Y-shaped or L-shaped cross-sections with support elements for stable coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If coupling elements are arranged in an orientation-dependent manner on containers, then the coupling mechanism can be simplified, but the complexity of tracking and managing container orientation in storage systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry in reverse - it uses symmetry (point-symmetric arrangement) to eliminate the need for orientation tracking. By arranging coupling elements symmetrically on opposite side walls, the container can be coupled in any orientation without requiring complex tracking systems, thus resolving the contradiction between simplified coupling and ease of operation.
2Device complexity
If coupling elements are arranged to require specific orientation for coupling, then the coupling structure can be more compact, but the ease of removing and moving containers in storage systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are designed with universal functionality through point-symmetric arrangement, allowing them to perform coupling operations in any orientation. This multi-orientational capability enables both compact structure and easy removal/movement operations, as storage machines can approach containers from any direction without requiring orientation verification.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional coupling arrangements are used, then manufacturing can be simpler, but the adaptability of containers to different storage configurations and orientations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into multiple coupling elements distributed symmetrically on opposite side walls. This segmentation allows each element to be manufactured independently using simple processes, while the overall symmetric arrangement provides adaptability to various storage configurations and orientations, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
Container (1) for storing and transporting objects, wherein the container (1) has a bottom (2) and at least two opposing side walls (3, 4) extending upwards from the bottom (2), wherein a set (10, 20) of coupling elements (11, 12, 21, 22) is arranged on each of the side walls (3, 4), and functionally equivalent sections of the sets (10, 20) of coupling elements (11, 12, 21, 22) are arranged point-symmetrically to each other in a plane (30) parallel to the bottom (2) with respect to a point of symmetry (23) in the plane (30), wherein the sections of the coupling elements (11, 12, 21, 22) are for mechanical coupling with further coupling elements (111, 112, 121, 122) of another container (100), which is identical in construction to the container (1), are designed in such a way that a tensile force can be transmitted from the container (1) to the further container (100).