Rolling Toolbox With Stacking Lids And Elastic Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems for tools and accessories lack efficient mechanisms for quick access, versatile container engagement, and mobility between storage and workspaces, particularly in accommodating differently sized containers and providing secure stacking and mounting options.
Innovation Solution
A rolling toolbox with a container design featuring a base, sidewalls, a lid with a latch, wheels for mobility, and a handle that can be telescoped for easy movement, along with elastic supports and various connection features for secure stacking and mounting of bins and accessories, allowing for flexible configuration and easy access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If containers are stacked to increase storage capacity, then storage density is improved, but accessibility and speed of retrieval deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent container units that can be individually accessed. Each container can be opened and closed independently, allowing users to retrieve items from any container without moving other containers, thus maintaining fast access while increasing overall storage capacity through stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
Containers are designed with stacking features that allow them to be nested vertically one on top of another. The lid of a lower container serves as the base for the container above it, creating a compact stacked arrangement that increases storage density while keeping each container independently accessible.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection mechanisms are added to accommodate differently sized containers, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The container design incorporates universal connection features: the lid of each container is designed to function both as a closure for that container and as a base for stacking another container on top. This multi-functional design allows the same basic container structure to work in multiple configurations and sizes without requiring different connection mechanisms for different container types.
3Reliability
If locking members are added to secure containers in stacked positions, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to engage automatically when containers are stacked. The locking member on the lower container self-activates to secure the upper container in place without requiring manual intervention. This provides reliable stacking security while maintaining ease of operation, as users simply need to place the container in position rather than manually operate locks.
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 accessibility and mobility by enabling quick storage and retrieval of tools, secure stacking of containers, and versatile mounting of accessories, improving workflow efficiency and organization in tool storage systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic support coupled to at least one of the base, the sidewall, and the lid, the elastic support being expandable to receive an item between the elastic support and the at least one of the base, the sidewall, or the lid and exert a compressive retaining force on the item
Implementation Method 2
a wheel rotatably coupled to the container and supporting the container for movement on a support surface
Implementation Method 3
a latch, the lid movable between a closed portion and an open position, the latch selectively securing the lid in the closed position
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container system includes rolling toolbox, a storage container, a storage bin, and a storage container assembly. Various aspects relate to a storage container including at least one sidewall extending from a base, the sidewall at least partially defining an outer wall of an interior compartment. A lid is coupled to the sidewall and movable between an open position and a closed position. The interior compartment is accessible while the lid is in the open position, and the interior compartment is covered while the lid is in the closed position.