Storage Tote With Pivotally Retractible Handle and Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage and transport devices for tools and supplies lack protective covers, leading to exposure to the environment and poor stackability, making them difficult to transport and store efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A storage tote with a pivotally attached cover and handle that can be moved between storage and use positions, featuring independently movable lids and a shoulder strap for secure carrying, allowing for compact stacking and hands-free transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed handle protruding from the tray is used, then the tray is easy to carry, but the tray becomes difficult to stack and store in limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to be movable between a protruding position (for carrying) and a retracted position (for stacking). This dynamic configuration allows the handle to adapt its position based on the operational requirement, resolving the contradiction between ease of carrying and stackability.
2Ease of operation
If the tray is open at the top for easy access, then tools are readily accessible, but tools and liquid can fall out and contents are exposed to the environment
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed to be movable between an open position (for accessing tools) and a closed position (for protecting contents). This dynamic configuration allows the cover to adapt its position based on whether access or protection is the priority, resolving the contradiction between ease of access and environmental protection.
3Reliability
If multiple trays are carried one by one or with one hand, then each tray can be secured, but transport efficiency decreases and hands are occupied
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple trays can be stacked together with their handles aligned, allowing them to be carried as a single unit or attached to a shoulder strap for hands-free transport. This merging of multiple trays into a combined transport configuration improves efficiency while maintaining secure transport through the aligned handle design.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for storage and transfer of tools and supplies that includes a housing, a cover and a handle. The housing defines a storage area therein and is configured to receive a plurality of tools and supplies. The cover is pivotally attached to the housing and is movable between a closed position covering the storage area and any tools and supplies therein, and an open position at least partially exposing and permitting access to the storage area and any tools and supplies therein. The handle is pivotally attached to the housing and is movable between a storage position located within the housing and a use position projecting from the housing for carrying the device thereby. The cover is movable between the closed and open positions while the handle is either in the storage position or the use position.