Portable Container Assembly With Sealing Lid and Removable Tray
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plastic five-gallon buckets lack versatility for applications requiring more than mere portability, as they fail to provide secure handling, organized storage, and effective sealing.
Innovation Solution
A portable container assembly featuring a flexible handle assembly with overmolded connection members, a removable tray with collapsible handle, and a sealing lid with a honeycomb cellular structure, along with a limited slip base and annular pad for enhanced stability and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional open-topped plastic pail is used, then portability is provided, but security and storage organization are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into multiple functional components: a base container, a removable tray with compartments, a sealing lid, and a handle assembly. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while collectively providing versatile and secure storage solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The container assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: the base container provides storage, the tray offers organized compartmentalization, the lid provides sealing and protection, and the handle enables portability. This multi-functionality transforms a simple pail into a versatile storage system.
2Ease of operation
If a conventional plastic pail is used, then basic portability is achieved, but secure handling is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is pre-configured with connection members that attach to mounting points on the container body. This preliminary preparation ensures that the handle is securely positioned and ready for immediate use, providing reliable lifting and carrying capabilities from the start.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly acts as an intermediary between the user and the container contents. By providing a secure gripping interface, it mediates the transfer of force and control, enabling safe and comfortable handling of the container.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional plastic pail is used, then simple storage is provided, but storage organization is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The removable tray with compartments is designed to nest within the base container. When not in use, the tray can be stored inside the container, maintaining a simple structure. When needed, it provides organized compartmentalization for multiple items.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray is designed to be removable and repositionable, allowing the storage configuration to dynamically adapt to different needs. Users can adjust or remove the tray to reorganize contents, providing flexibility without permanent structural complexity.
4Ease of operation
If a conventional open-topped pail is used, then access to contents is easy, but protection and sealing are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The opening is divided into two functional zones: an inner sealing surface that contacts the lid's sealing element for protection, and an outer rim that provides structural support and easy gripping. This segmentation allows simultaneous achievement of protection and ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing lid acts as an intermediary between the container contents and the external environment. It provides protection against contamination and moisture while maintaining easy access through its removable design and user-friendly interface.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances portability, security, and storage organization by providing a secure handle system, collapsible tray, and effective sealing, addressing the limitations of conventional buckets.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second connection members are overmolded onto the opposed ends of the handle such that an overmolded material of the first and second connection members infiltrates between fibers of the flexible textile material
Implementation Method 2
The pad is formed from a flexible material that is overmolded onto the bottom side of the base, such that at least some of the ribs penetrate the pad and are covered by the flexible material
Implementation Method 3
The lid is removably connected to the top of the container to at least partially cover the opening and has a plurality of internal reinforcing members arranged in a honeycomb cellular structure
Data Source
AI summary
A portable container and container assembly provides a durable, functional and simple carry-all solution for dry and wet provisions, goods and gear. Exemplary features of various embodiments include one or more of an overmolded pad on the bottom of the container, a removable handle incorporating a releasable retaining structure, a lid that seals within the container cavity and is flush with the outer periphery of the container sidewall and/or has a cellular internal reinforcing structure, a skirt extending around the sidewall that is integral with handle mounts for the handle and/or provides a connection point for external components, and a drop-in tray with a collapsible handle.