Stackable System Container With Pivoting Coupling Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable system containers are limited in their modularity, as they require a specific fastening system for identical containers, which restricts the stacking of different boxes and reduces the top lid's storage capacity due to protruding coupling elements.
Innovation Solution
The stackable system container features pivoting coupling devices that can switch between a retracted and protruding position, allowing for stable connection of identical containers while enabling modular stacking of different containers by preventing automatic coupling and allowing the top to be used as a storage surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If coupling elements protrude from the top of the lid to enable stacking, then stacking stability is improved, but the storage surface area of the lid is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed to be movable between a first position where it protrudes above the lid surface to enable stacking and a second position where it is retracted below the lid surface to maximize storage area. This dynamic repositioning allows the same structure to serve both stacking and storage functions depending on the operational context.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a specific fastening system is used for identical containers, then connection stability is improved, but modularity and stacking flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed with universal functionality to work with both identical containers (providing stable form-fitting connections) and different container types (enabling modular stacking). The movable design allows it to adapt its position and engagement characteristics to match different container geometries while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable coupling device can be positioned in different locations on the lid surface, allowing the same coupling mechanism to accommodate various container types and sizes. This dynamic adaptability enables both form-fitting connections for identical containers and modular stacking for different containers without requiring separate fastening systems.
3Reliability
If coupling devices are fixed in position, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and detachment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device transitions from a fixed to a movable design, allowing it to be easily repositioned between protruding and retracted states. This dynamic capability enables reliable connections when needed while also facilitating easy detachment and reconfiguration when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device changes its positional parameter (protruding height and location) to transition between engaged and disengaged states. By varying this physical parameter, the system achieves both reliable connection during stacking and easy operation during detachment without requiring complex locking mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a stackable system container (1), comprising a bottom part (2) and a lid part (3) fastened to the bottom part (2), wherein respective coupling devices (8a) are movably fastened to two opposite side walls (7a, 7b) of the bottom part (2). In order to enable dimensionally stable and connected stacking of structurally identical system containers and also modular stacking of different system containers, each coupling device (8a, 8b) can be moved between an idle position, in which the coupling device (8a, 8b) is arranged below a top side (6) of the lid part (3), and a coupling position, in which the coupling device (8a; 8b) projects beyond the top side (6) of the lid part (3).