Reconfigurable Food Storage Container with Segmented Interior
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers lack versatility and are unable to be adjusted to accommodate specific items, often requiring non-optimal arrangements or separate packaging, which is wasteful and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
Containers with an interior surface configured to secure rigid or flexible dividers, allowing for reconfigurable compartments, and a lid that engages with the dividers to create sealed compartments, with optional temperature control using integrated gel materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing containers use pre-defined fixed compartments, then the container structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the container lacks versatility and cannot be adjusted to suit different items
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into a base portion and a removable lid, with the interior surface segmented to include multiple engagement features (ridges, grooves, protrusions, recesses) that can selectively engage with dividers. This segmentation allows the container to maintain a simple base structure while gaining adaptability through the modular engagement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The container transitions from a static fixed-compartment design to a dynamic reconfigurable system. Dividers can be moved, added, or removed based on engagement with the interior surface features, allowing the container configuration to adapt dynamically to different storage needs without changing the fundamental container structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users employ separate packaging (such as separate plastic bags) to keep items separated, then item separation is achieved, but packaging waste increases and items are not adequately retained within the container
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the separation function from disposable packaging materials and integrates it into the container structure itself through dividers and engagement features. This eliminates the need for separate plastic bags while maintaining effective item separation and retention within the container.
3Ease of operation
If existing containers lack reconfigurable compartments, then the container structure is simple, but users are forced to use non-optimal arrangements that do not suit the items to be transported
Solution Approach 1:
The interior surface features (ridges, grooves, protrusions, recesses) serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the container, create engagement points for dividers, and enable reconfigurable compartment layouts. This multi-functionality allows optimal item arrangement without adding significant structural complexity.
4Reliability
If the container uses a lid that engages with dividers to create sealed compartments, then compartment sealing is improved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed to integrate with the divider system through engagement features. When a divider is positioned in the container, the lid engages with the divider to create a unified sealed compartment structure. This merging of lid and divider functions achieves reliable sealing while keeping the overall assembly straightforward.
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
Enables flexible and efficient storage and transport of multiple items in various configurations, reducing waste and ensuring optimal separation and temperature control within the container.
Implementation Method 1
The dividers may also include an integrated material such as a gel that can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable container is provided that has an interior surface configured to secure one or more rigid or flexible dividers and to allow for reconfigurable interior compartments of the container. The dividers may also include an integrated material such as a gel that can be heated or cooled in order to maintain a desired temperature within the container. The container may include a lid that engages the top surfaces of the dividers to establish a plurality of substantially sealed compartments within the container.