Storage Device with Tapered Protrusions for Stacking Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices often pose challenges such as difficult access to stored items, instability when stacked, requirement for tool-based assembly, and aesthetic unappeal, leading to potential hazards and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A storage device design featuring protrusions with tapered ends and sloping faces that secure side panels to a base in multiple directions, along with a latch and pin system and retractable magnetic pins for stability and tool-free assembly, allowing for easy stacking and access from either side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional storage devices are stacked, then storage capacity increases, but stability deteriorates causing potential hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device is divided into modular components (base, sides, lid) that can be independently assembled and stacked. Each module has standardized coupling features that ensure stable connections when stacked, allowing multiple units to be combined safely to increase storage capacity without compromising stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device incorporates nested coupling mechanisms where protrusions on one unit fit into recesses on another unit during stacking. This nesting approach ensures that each stacked unit is securely positioned, maintaining stability while enabling increased storage capacity through vertical arrangement.
2Strength
If traditional storage devices require tool-based assembly, then structural strength improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts requiring tools) with a snap-fit coupling mechanism. Protrusions with tapered ends engage with corresponding recesses through simple insertion motions, eliminating the need for tools while maintaining structural integrity through geometric interlocking and friction-based holding.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed to self-align and self-secure during assembly. The tapered protrusions guide the joining process automatically, and the friction fit maintains the connection without requiring additional fastening steps or tools, making the assembly process simple and tool-free while preserving strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If storage devices are designed for stable stacking, then stacking stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling features utilize asymmetric geometric shapes (tapered protrusions with specific angle ranges) that provide stable stacking through directional insertion. The asymmetric design ensures proper orientation during assembly and creates inherent stability when stacked, while the simplicity of the geometric form keeps the overall mechanism uncomplicated.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes specific geometric parameters of the coupling features (protrusion angle between 10-45 degrees, length ratios between 0.5-2.0) to achieve stable stacking. By carefully controlling these parameters, the design obtains reliable stacking stability without requiring complex mechanical structures, maintaining simplicity while ensuring performance.
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 solution provides three-axis stability, tool-free assembly, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring safe and efficient storage while maintaining stability between adjacent devices, even when stacked, and allowing for flexible configuration and easy access to contents.
Implementation Method 1
adjacent storage devices may be secured together using retractable magnetic pins incorporated into each of the lids of the storage devices
Data Source
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AI summary
A storage device includes a base, and a number of side panels selectively coupled to the base. Each of the side panels include a protrusion. The base includes a number of voids defined therein. The protrusions, once inserted into the voids, restrict movement of the side panels relative to the base in at least two coordinate directions.