Repositionable Divider Using Viscoelastomeric Polymer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sectionalized containers have fixed dividers that cannot be adjusted, leading to instability and displacement of items when subjected to jarring impacts, and require rigid sidewalls for support, limiting their configurability and usability.
Innovation Solution
An adhesive and cohesive viscoelastomeric thermoset polymer is used to create a repositionable divider system that can be adjusted freely, stabilizing both the divider and items against movement, allowing for flexible configuration without the need for fixed sidewalls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed dividers are used in conventional sectionalized containers, then structural support is provided, but the containers cannot be reconfigured to accommodate different stowage needs
Solution Approach 1:
The divider members are made movable and repositionable along the container walls rather than being fixed. The spring-loaded engagement mechanism allows dividers to be dynamically adjusted to different positions while maintaining structural support through the spring force and engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is divided into multiple independent sectional compartments separated by individual divider members. Each divider can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing flexible segmentation of the container space to accommodate various stowage requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dividers are fixedly attached to container walls, then stable positioning is achieved, but the dividers cannot be repositioned to accommodate different item sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism transitions between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the divider to be either securely fixed or freely movable. When engaged, the spring-loaded latch provides stable positioning; when disengaged, the divider can be repositioned to a new location.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded engagement feature acts as an intermediary between the divider and container wall. It provides the necessary holding force to stabilize the divider in position while allowing the divider to be released and repositioned when needed.
3Reliability
If rigid sidewalls are used to support dividers, then structural stability is provided, but the system becomes complex and less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement mechanism uses flexible spring elements instead of rigid sidewall structures to provide support. The spring-loaded features can deflect and accommodate divider movement while maintaining stabilizing force, eliminating the need for complex rigid support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded engagement features automatically engage and disengage based on the position and movement of the divider members. The system self-regulates the stabilizing force without requiring external control mechanisms or complex rigid support structures.
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 stabilizes items and dividers, preventing movement during impacts and allowing for customizable compartment configurations, enhancing usability and stability without the need for rigid structures.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesive and cohesive viscoelastomeric thermoset polymer
Implementation Method 2
an adhesive and cohesive viscoelastomeric thermoset polymer
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a unique system for providing partition dividers in stowing units (e.g. shelving, trays, and containers). This is accomplished by providing a stowing unit with an adhesive viscoelastomeric thermoset polymer which adhesively restrains a free-standing divider adapted to be removed and repositioned at any desired positon to fit a user's stowing needs. The adhesive polymer is also cohesive and releases both the divider and any stowed items in contact with the polymer via the application of a counteracting removal force sufficient to overcome the adhesive attraction of the polymer. Accordingly, dividers fixedly attached to conventional sectionalized containers are suitably replaced herein by the repositionable divider combination.