Self-Locking Stackable Storage Containers With Auto-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers lack an effective and efficient way to stack and lock together securely, leading to disorganization and difficulty in managing and transporting tools and equipment, particularly in industrial settings.
Innovation Solution
A system of stackable storage boxes with a tri-state lock mechanism that automatically locks and aligns when stacked, featuring deep chamfers, protrusions, and detent slots, along with a lock status indicator to show the locking state, allowing easy attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual attachment methods are used for stacking containers, then ease of operation is improved, but stacking security and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking system automatically locks containers together through self-aligning features. When containers are stacked, the protrusion automatically engages with the detent slot and the latch mechanism self-activates to secure the connection, eliminating the need for manual locking operations while ensuring reliable attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate locking components (protrusion, detent slot, latch mechanism) that mediate between the upper and lower containers. These intermediary elements facilitate secure connection by providing dedicated engagement points that automatically interact when containers are stacked.
2Reliability
If automatic locking mechanisms are implemented, then stacking security is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: alignment features (chamfers), engagement features (protrusion and detent slot), and locking features (latch mechanism). This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a compact integrated assembly. The protrusion, detent slot, and latch mechanism work together as a unified locking system that automatically secures containers when stacked, reducing the number of separate components needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If deep chamfers and alignment features are added, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features (deep chamfers on lids and bottoms) are pre-formed during container manufacturing. This preliminary alignment preparation ensures that when containers are stacked, they automatically self-align without requiring additional adjustment operations or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a system are disclosed including a stackable storage container. In various embodiments, the stackable storage container includes stacking locks that may be deployed automatically to lock the stackable storage containers together when a first storage container is placed upon the top of a second storage container. A tri-state locking system is used to lock the containers in a stack configuration. Deep chamfers at bottom surfaces and top lids of storage containers allow automatic alignment of the containers. When storage containers are stacked and aligned, a lock status indicator is activated to indicate the state of the stacking locks. The lock status indicator may also have an added function to allow a user to unlock the stacked storage containers to detach and remove them from the stack. The user may not manually lock the storage containers but the user may unlock them manually.