Retractable Wall Crate Latch Mechanism for Direct Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current grocery storage methods require labor-intensive unloading and reconfiguration of containers to access items, which is inefficient and labor-intensive for both handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible container design featuring pivotable and retractable walls that can be latched and unlatched to allow direct access to items without unloading, enabling stacking and efficient storage and retrieval of goods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional metal crates or cardboard boxes are used for grocery items, then the items can be transported and stored, but labor is required to unload and place items onto shelves for customer access
Solution Approach 1:
The front wall of the container is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable between a closed position (for secure transport and storage) and a retracted position (for customer access). This dynamic transformation eliminates the need to unload items onto shelves while maintaining accessibility, directly resolving the contradiction between storage efficiency and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the front wall is retracted to allow access to grocery items, then customers can retrieve items directly from the container, but the container cannot be securely stacked or transported
Solution Approach 1:
The front wall incorporates a latch mechanism that enables dynamic switching between a secured state (for stable stacking and transport) and a retracted state (for customer access). This dynamic design allows the container to adapt its structural configuration based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and structural stability.
3Productivity
If traditional containers are used, then items can be stored and transported, but labor-intensive handling is required both for storage and retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with a pre-configured retractable front wall mechanism that enables direct access to items while maintaining stackability. This preliminary design feature eliminates the need for intermediate steps (unloading onto shelves), thereby reducing handling time and improving operational efficiency without sacrificing storage capabilities.
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 collapsible container reduces labor requirements by allowing direct access to items from a stacked configuration, enhancing storage efficiency and reducing handling needs, thereby improving operational efficiency in retail environments.
Implementation Method 1
A spring may bias the latch toward a latched position in which the latch connects the first wall portion to the frame
Implementation Method 2
Movement of the latch vertically causes the secondary latch to move from the latched position to the unlatched position via the cam
Data Source
AI summary
A container includes a wall extending upward from a base. The wall includes a frame and a first wall portion pivotably connected to the frame. The wall further includes a latch selectively connecting the first wall portion to the frame. The latch is movable vertically relative to the frame to selectively release the first wall portion from the frame.