Storage Container Reconfiguration for Compact Shipping and Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers face issues such as misalignment and complexity in latch mechanisms, battery drain in electronic locks, difficulty in seeing contents, especially in low light, and high shipping and handling costs due to size, which affect ease of use and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A storage container design featuring a frame with a primary and secondary opening, electronic latch assemblies controlled remotely, multiple interior and exterior lights, a solar panel for charging, and a compact configuration for reduced shipping costs and ease of handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If joined multicomponent latch mechanisms are used to allow opening from either end, then accessibility is improved, but device complexity increases and misalignment problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into two separate tubs, each with its own independent latch mechanism. This segmentation eliminates the complexity of joined mechanisms while maintaining the ability to access either end independently. Each tub can be locked or unlocked separately without affecting the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The rod coupling the latch mechanisms in traditional designs is removed entirely. Each latch mechanism operates independently without being mechanically linked, eliminating misalignment issues and reducing overall device complexity while preserving dual-end accessibility.
2Quantity of substance
If larger container sizes are used to increase storage capacity, then storage capability is improved, but shipping costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The large storage capacity is achieved by using two separate tubs instead of one large tub. This segmentation allows the container to maintain high storage capacity while reducing overall shipping dimensions, as the tubs can be nested or configured to optimize space utilization during transport.
3Extent of automation
If electronic locks powered by vehicle battery are used, then locking functionality is improved, but reliability deteriorates when battery is drained
Solution Approach 1:
Each tub is equipped with its own independent power source (battery) and electronic lock system. This self-service approach ensures that if one battery is drained, the other tub remains fully operational. The system provides redundancy and maintains reliability even when one power source fails.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional latch mechanisms are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the latch mechanisms into two independent systems (one for each tub), the patent eliminates the precision alignment requirements between left and right latches. Each latch only needs to align with its corresponding striker on the same tub, significantly reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design addresses misalignment and complexity in latch mechanisms, provides visibility in low light conditions, reduces shipping costs, and enhances handling with a compact configuration, while ensuring battery efficiency through solar charging and remote operation.
Implementation Method 1
a solar panel for charging
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container including a frame surrounding an interior having primary and secondary openings, a lid assembly mounted adjacent the primary opening, and a bottom panel selectively attached to the frame adjacent the secondary opening. The container has a front panel, a back panel, and a pair of end panels. The frame interior is sized to receive the front panel, the back panel, and the end panels. The front panel, the back panel, and the pair of end panels are configured for selective attachment to the frame surrounding the secondary opening when the bottom panel is detached from the frame. The bottom panel is configured for simultaneous selective attachment to the front panel, the back panel, and the pair of end panels opposite the secondary opening when the front panel, the back panel, and the pair of end panels are attached to the frame surrounding the secondary opening.