Sliding Rotating Storage Unit for Improved Compartment Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage units lack efficient accessibility to internal compartments, as they only slide and do not rotate, limiting user access to stored tools and equipment.
Innovation Solution
A storage device with a storage element that is slidably and rotatably coupled to sidewalls, allowing it to actuate between stowed and forward positions, and rotate between configurations to expose the storage compartment through an upper opening, enhancing accessibility by positioning the opening between or in front of the sidewalls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the storage element only slides linearly between stowed and forward positions, then the structure is simple and reliable, but accessibility to the storage compartment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sliding and rotating movements into a single coupled mechanism. The storage element simultaneously performs linear translation along the guide rail and rotation about its longitudinal axis through the integrated coupling system, merging two degrees of freedom into one unified actuation sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions the storage element from a static linear sliding motion to a dynamic combined motion pattern. As the storage element moves forward, it dynamically rotates to orient the opening toward the user, creating an adaptive positioning system that responds to the actuation force.
2Ease of operation
If the storage element rotates to face upward and forward, then user access to contents is improved, but the mechanism requires more complex coupling structures
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rail acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the linear actuation force and the rotational response of the storage element. The rail's geometry and the coupling mechanism work together to convert the straightforward pulling motion into the desired combined sliding and rotating movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a rotational dimension to the traditionally one-dimensional linear sliding motion. The storage element operates in two spatial dimensions: translation along the guide rail axis and rotation about its longitudinal axis, creating a two-degree-of-freedom movement pattern that improves accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If the storage element is retracted within the storage device, then the profile is compact, but accessibility and ease of retrieval are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage element transitions from a static retracted position to a dynamic extended and rotated position upon actuation. This dynamic positioning allows the system to maintain a compact profile when not in use while providing full accessibility when needed, eliminating the need for a permanently extended design.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a storage device are provided. The storage device includes one or more storage compartment that are slideable with respect to sidewalls of the storage device. The containers are also rotatable with respect to the sidewalls of the storage device, thereby permitting improved accessibility to the storage compartment in the container.