Sliding Cylindrical Storage Container for Easy-Open Secure Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices for small and large items, such as medications and mechanical parts, are difficult for individuals with arthritis to open due to requiring grasping strength and twisting motions, and often have insecure lids that can lead to accidental opening and spillage.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical storage device with sliding covers that utilize grasping means like lips or handles for easy opening and closing, and may include locking mechanisms, monitoring, and recording systems, allowing for easy access and secure storage without significant manual dexterity or strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hinged lids or snap-on caps are used, then the storage device can be sealed to protect items, but individuals with arthritis find it difficult and painful to open due to requiring grasping strength and twisting motions
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is divided into a stationary portion attached to the container and a movable portion that slides independently. The stationary portion maintains the sealing interface while the movable portion provides the opening/closing action, separating the sealing function from the operational motion requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using the conventional hinged lid that rotates open or snap-on cap that requires twisting, the invention uses a sliding mechanism where the lid moves linearly along the container opening. This inverts the traditional rotational opening motion into a translational sliding motion that is easier to operate for individuals with arthritis.
2Ease of operation
If flexible plastic hinges are used to attach lids, then the lid can move easily, but the hinges tend to break over time from regular use or become less secure causing unexpected opening and spillage
Solution Approach 1:
The lid assembly is segmented into a stationary portion that remains fixed to the container and a movable portion that slides independently. This eliminates the need for flexible hinges that connect the lid to the container, as the movable portion is supported by guide rails rather than fragile plastic hinges.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical hinge system with a sliding mechanism guided by rails. Instead of relying on flexible plastic hinges that degrade over time, the lid is guided along a rigid rail structure that maintains security while enabling smooth movement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rotating covers or tops are used to access compartments, then multiple medications can be stored and accessed individually, but the device requires both grasping strength and twisting ability which is difficult for individuals with advanced arthritis
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using rotating covers that require twisting motions, the invention employs sliding covers that move linearly along guide rails. This inverts the rotational access mechanism into a translational sliding mechanism that maintains individual compartment accessibility while eliminating the twisting motion requirement for individuals with arthritis.
4Reliability
If childproof caps or vacuum sealed jars are used, then the storage device provides secure sealing and protection, but individuals with lack of strength cannot open them easily
Solution Approach 1:
The closure system is segmented into a stationary sealing portion that maintains the secure seal and a movable sliding portion that provides the opening action. The stationary portion contains the sealing interface while the movable portion, guided by rails, requires minimal force to slide open, separating the sealing function from the operational force requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device having a cylindrical housing with a first end, a second end and cylindrical side, wherein the ends are closed and the cylindrical side has one or more apertures. There is a cylindrical cover for each of the one or more apertures that slidably fit over the cylindrical side of the cylindrical housing and able to slide about the cylindrical side exposing or covering the one or more apertures.