Sliding Lid Pocket Container for One-Handed Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a pocket-size container that can be easily held and opened with one hand, allowing the other hand to remain free for other functions, while being economical and simple to assemble.
Innovation Solution
A three-piece container with a frame and a slidably attached lid, featuring a hermetically sealed bag with an openable window, designed for single-handed operation, where the lid can be secured in either position and the bag can be resealed, facilitating easy access and storage of consumer items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the container is designed to be pocket-size for easy carrying, then portability is improved, but the opening mechanism becomes difficult to operate with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed to slide linearly between fully closed and fully open positions, allowing dynamic movement that can be easily actuated by a single finger or thumb. This sliding mechanism transforms the static lid into a dynamically operable component that maintains functionality despite the compact container size.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is divided into distinct functional segments: a frame forming an internal storage compartment, a separately movable lid, and optionally a bag for holding items. This segmentation allows the lid to be independently operated without requiring manipulation of the entire container structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If the container comprises few parts for economical production, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but assembly simplicity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frame integrates multiple structural functions into a single component: it forms the internal storage compartment, provides the mounting structure for the lid, and contains the opening mechanism. This merging reduces the total number of parts while maintaining structural integrity and functional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid serves multiple functions: it closes the access opening to protect contents, can be slid to various positions for access, and works with the frame's internal structure to enable secure closure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
3Ease of operation
If the access opening is positioned for easy one-handed access, then ease of operation is improved, but the storage compartment layout becomes constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The access opening is specifically positioned in the front portion at an optimal location for one-handed access, while the rest of the frame maintains a standard rectangular storage compartment configuration. This local modification allows improved operability without fundamentally altering the overall storage layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid provides an additional dimensional solution by sliding horizontally across the access opening, allowing access control without requiring vertical or lateral expansion of the storage compartment. This dimensional approach resolves the conflict between access position and storage configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A pocket-size hand-held container for containing a supply of consumer items comprises a frame, a lid, and preferably a bag is disposed in the container for holding the items being stored. The frame includes front and back portions, top and bottom portions, and side portions, the frame forming an internal storage compartment that stores the items. The front portion forms an access opening for the storage compartment, the access opening being situated closer to the top end portion than to the bottom end portion. The lid is attached to the front portion to be slid linearly between fully closed and fully open positions. In its fully closed position, the lid overlies the access opening, and in its fully open position, the lid lies within the footprint of the container. A securement structure formed by the lid and the frame yieldably holds the lid in the closed position. The bag is formed of a flexible plastic material and includes an openable window situated behind the access opening.