Portable Container Modular Assembly System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable containers lack versatility in reconfiguring internal spaces and adding new functionalities without compromising sealing and insulation, leading to limited adaptability for changing user needs and logistical challenges for manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A modular assembly system with inserts, beams, and sliders that allows for flexible configuration of internal compartments and accessory support, enabling users to customize the container's layout and functionality without compromising sealing, using commercially available materials and components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the container is provided with a fixed configuration of pockets, dividing walls and accessories, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the versatility and adaptability for different uses is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The container interior is segmented into modular components (pockets, dividing walls, accessories) that can be independently positioned and configured. This allows the container to maintain a simple standardized structure for manufacturing while enabling versatile customization through the arrangement of these modular elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration system transitions from a static fixed arrangement to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Users can modify the position and orientation of pockets, dividing walls, and accessories according to different needs, while the manufacturing process remains simplified through standardized mounting interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If holes are provided along the half shells to allow fixing of brackets and platforms, then the versatility for adding functionalities is improved, but the sealing and insulation capabilities are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary mounting system is introduced between the half shells and the accessories. This intermediary layer provides fixing points for brackets and platforms without requiring holes in the half shells themselves, thereby maintaining sealing integrity while enabling versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system utilizes flexible elements or thin film structures that can accommodate accessories without penetrating the rigid half shells. This approach allows fixing of brackets and platforms while preserving the continuous sealing surface of the half shells.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ad hoc components are provided for each configuration, then the versatility for different uses is improved, but the logistical management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A universal set of standardized components is provided that can be used across multiple configurations. These multi-functional elements can be arranged in different ways to create various configurations, reducing the need for separate ad hoc components for each use case and simplifying logistical management.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing different components for each configuration, the system uses the same components with varying parameters (position, orientation, quantity) to achieve different configurations. This parameter-based variation reduces component variety and simplifies logistics while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A portable container which comprises a first half shell (2a) substantially shaped like a parallelepiped and a second half shell (2b), which are mutually movable between a configuration for closing an internal compartment (3) and at least one open configuration, for free access to the compartment (3). The container comprises an assembly (100) for the coupling and/or support of accessories of various kinds, which comprises a plurality of inserts (101) inserted in respective cavities (6) having a corresponding shape, provided along at least three side walls (7) of the first half shell (2a) and open toward the compartment (3), at least three beams (102) supported by the inserts (101) and arranged parallel to respective side walls (7), so as to jointly form a sort of at least partial frame which protrudes toward the compartment (3), and at least one slider (103a, 103b), configured for the coupling and/or support of at least one accessory of various kinds and supported by a beam (102) in a chosen position along the face that is directed toward the compartment (3) of one of the beams (102).