Soft-Sided Hanging Container with Dynamic Sidewalls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable soft-sided containers lack the ability to efficiently compress and organize items, especially when space is limited, and there is no effective way to hang them for optimal use in confined areas.
Innovation Solution
A soft-sided container that can transform into different configurations, including a compact mode and a hanging position, with features like suspenders, spreaders, and collapsible sidewalls, allowing it to be stacked or nested with other containers, and equipped with a suspension system for hanging from structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If soft-sided containers are made portable and collapsible, then ease of transport is improved, but the ability to compress and organize items effectively deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container employs dynamic sidewalls that can transition between collapsed and expanded states. The sidewalls include panels that can be folded or collapsed inward, allowing the container to be compressed for transport and then expanded for storage. This dynamic structure enables the container to adapt its volume while maintaining compression capability when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is divided into multiple compartments and sections within its structure. The sidewalls are segmented into multiple panels that can independently fold or collapse. This segmentation allows different portions of the container to be compressed efficiently while maintaining the overall structural integrity and compression function.
2Volume of moving object
If soft-sided containers are made collapsible for compact storage, then space efficiency during transport is improved, but the ability to maintain stable hanging position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container features dynamic sidewalls that can transition between collapsed and expanded states. When expanded for hanging storage, the sidewalls form a stable, upright structure with sufficient rigidity to maintain position. When collapsed, the same sidewalls fold inward to reduce volume. This dynamic behavior allows the container to achieve both compact storage and stable hanging capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The container includes pre-configured hanging mechanisms such as loops, handles, or attachment points that are prepared in advance on the container structure. These hanging features are integrated into the design so that when the container is expanded and hung, the stability is immediately established without requiring additional assembly or adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If soft-sided containers are designed to hang from structures, then organization capability in confined spaces is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with multi-functional features that serve both structural and hanging purposes. The sidewalls and closure mechanisms are engineered to provide both containment and hanging capabilities. For example, the closure system may include integrated loops or handles that serve dual functions: securing the closure and providing hanging points. This universality reduces the need for separate, dedicated hanging components.
Solution Approach 2:
The hanging mechanisms are merged with the existing container structure rather than being separate additions. The sidewalls, closure systems, or reinforcement elements are combined with hanging features such as loops, handles, or attachment points. This merging integrates the hanging function into the basic container structure, avoiding significant increases in overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A soft-side silo container is sized to fit inside larger luggage such as a suitcase. It has a vertical zipper with doubled zipper cars to permit several different opening configurations. It also has a suspension system, namely its hook from which the container's collapsible upstanding peripheral wall is suspended that permits the container to be hung from a hanger rod, or from another container of the same type. The peripheral wall breathes, and is foldable to fit inside a suitcase. It has sub-compartment dividers that function as shelves. It can be used in conjunction with hard sided carry-on luggage or general luggage. Alternatively, it can be used in conjunction with a cascade of soft-sided hanging shelves.