Storage Case Bins with Vacuum-Relief Ribs and Soft-Bag Latch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool storage devices lack efficient and versatile systems for organizing and transporting tools, particularly in combining soft-sided and rigid storage solutions, and for stacking bins to optimize space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A storage device system comprising a base with removably insertable bins of varying heights, including stackable second bins with ledges and ribs to prevent vacuum formation, and a latch assembly for securing a soft-sided bag to a rigid storage case, allowing easy transport and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If bins are made stackable to optimize storage space, then space utilization is improved, but vacuum formation occurs between stacked bins
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates porous or permeable materials in the bin structure, specifically using a porous bottom surface on bins that allows air passage. This enables air flow between stacked bins, preventing vacuum formation while maintaining the stackable configuration for optimized storage space utilization.
2Ease of operation
If soft-sided storage device is coupled to rigid storage case for secure transport, then transport convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the soft-sided storage device with the rigid storage case through an integrated coupling system. The latch assembly combines multiple functions (securing, aligning, and stabilizing) into a single mechanism that physically joins the bag and case, enabling secure transport while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly acts as an intermediary component between the soft-sided bag and rigid case. This mediator element provides the coupling interface, allowing the two different storage device types to be securely joined without requiring complex integration of their respective structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bins are made removable and insertable for organizational flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but reliability of bin positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bin design incorporates self-aligning features such as ribs that automatically guide and position bins during insertion. The bins self-correct their positioning as they are placed into the storage case, ensuring reliable and consistent placement without requiring external alignment mechanisms or complex securing systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device system includes a storage case having a base and a cover coupled to the base, and a plurality of insertable bins removably positioned within an interior of the base. The plurality of insertable bins includes a first bin having a first height and a set of second bins each having a second height. The set of second bins is configured to be stackable and have a stacked height when stacked. A depth of the interior of the base, the first height, and the stacked height are equal.