Stackable container system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tiffin carriers are not adjustable and are difficult to assemble and disassemble, limiting their adoption in the United States as they require fixed placement of food containers and complex fastening mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A portable food storage system with stackable containers secured by an adjustable ratcheting mechanism, allowing for customizable stacking and easy transportation of microwavable meals, featuring a bottom receptacle, stackable containers with nested designs, and a fastening mechanism with a linear rack and pivotable finger for adjustable length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing tiffin carriers use fixed placement requirements for food containers, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing an adjustable fastening mechanism that allows the tiffin carrier to adapt to different numbers and sizes of containers. The fastening system can be dynamically reconfigured to secure 1-4 tiers of containers, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that responds to varying user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism serves multiple functions: it can secure different numbers of containers (1-4 tiers), accommodate various container sizes, and provide both structural support and adjustable configuration. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptable without requiring multiple specialized components.
2Ease of operation
If existing tiffin carriers require individual fastening of each food container, then the stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fastening functions into a single integrated mechanism that simultaneously secures multiple containers. Instead of requiring separate fastening operations for each container tier, the unified fastening system binds all containers together in one action, greatly improving ease of operation while maintaining stacking security through the combined structural support.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing tiffin carriers are designed for fixed number of tiers, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fastening mechanism into modular components that can be independently adjusted. The fastening system is segmented into adjustable elements that can accommodate different tier configurations, allowing the same base design to precisely secure 1-4 tiers without requiring different manufacturing specifications for each configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A food storage system comprising a bottom receptacle, a plurality of stackable containers, a handle configured to extend over a topmost one of the plurality of stackable containers, and a fastening mechanism having a bottom end coupled to the bottom receptacle and a top end coupled to the top lid. A length of the fastening mechanism is adjustable so that a spacing between the bottom receptacle and the handle is adjustable.