Quick access storage container system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage systems often leave underutilized spaces due to shelves being spaced for the largest item, resulting in empty space above smaller items, necessitating a solution to maximize storage efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A storage system featuring a rim assembly with magnets that selectively attaches to a container, allowing for easy access and adjustable retention force, enabling the use of underutilized spaces by securing containers to a support surface while allowing single-handed operation and easy access to contents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If containers are secured to a support surface using traditional methods, then storage stability is improved, but access speed and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, adhesives) with a magnetic field-based retention system. Magnets embedded in the rim assembly create magnetic attraction forces that securely hold containers to the support surface while allowing easy attachment and detachment through simple approach and removal motions, eliminating complex mechanical fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic retention system provides dynamic adaptability where the retention force can be adjusted by changing the strength or configuration of magnets. The system transitions smoothly between held and released states without mechanical intermediaries, allowing rapid access while maintaining stable storage when containers are in position.
2Volume of moving object
If shelves are spaced for the largest item, then storage capacity for large items is improved, but space utilization for smaller items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage space by introducing rim assemblies that can be attached at different positions on the support surface, creating multiple storage levels or zones. This allows smaller containers to be positioned in previously wasted spaces above or between larger items, effectively dividing the storage volume into可利用 segments for different sized containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes the vertical dimension and unused lateral spaces by attaching rim assemblies at various heights and positions on the support surface. This transforms the traditional single-level shelf arrangement into a multi-level, three-dimensional storage configuration that maximizes space utilization for containers of varying sizes.
3Ease of operation
If magnets are used to secure containers, then ease of operation is improved, but retention force control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the strength, size, and configuration of magnets to achieve desired retention forces for different container weights and applications. The magnetic field strength can be adjusted by selecting appropriate magnet specifications, providing controllable retention force while maintaining ease of operation through the inherent properties of magnetic attraction.
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 system effectively utilizes underutilized spaces by providing quick, convenient access to stored items, reducing waste and enhancing storage efficiency, and can be adjusted to accommodate items of varying weights, ensuring easy retrieval without spillage or frustration.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnets that are positioned in the rim assembly. The rim assembly selectively attaches to a container to form a container assembly. The rim assembly is configured for selective attachment to a support surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system includes a rim assembly and one or more magnets. The rim assembly is configured for attachment to a container to form a container assembly. The one or more magnets are positioned in the container assembly. An effective magnetic force exerted by the one or more magnets on a support surface from which the container assembly is suspended can be varied by adjusting a distance between the support surface and the one or more magnets.