Interchangeable Test Element Retainers with Resilient Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage containers for test elements face issues with increased manufacturing and inventory costs, cumbersome loading and dislodging of interchangeable inserts, and difficulty in accessing remaining test elements, leading to contamination and unreliability.
Innovation Solution
The use of resilient securing tabs for frictional engagement with the storage container and retainer elements to maintain vertical orientation of test elements, allowing for easy access and secure retention of interchangeable inserts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If storage containers are designed to store multiple test elements of a specific number and single size, then manufacturing and inventory costs increase, but storage stability is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is divided into a removable insert component that can be separated from the main container body. This allows the insert to be replaced with different sizes and configurations to accommodate various test element quantities, thereby reducing the need to manufacture multiple complete container types and lowering inventory costs while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert is designed with universal features that allow it to fit into different container bodies and accommodate different numbers of test elements. The insert includes adjustable retaining walls and resilient tabs that can adapt to various test element configurations, enabling a single insert design to serve multiple storage purposes across different container types.
2Ease of operation
If interchangeable inserts are made loose-fitting for easy loading, then loading becomes easier, but insert dislodging occurs when the container is knocked around
Solution Approach 1:
The insert incorporates resilient tabs that can dynamically adjust their engagement force with the container walls. During loading, the tabs flex outward to accommodate the insert being placed into the container. Once positioned, the tabs spring back to engage firmly with the container walls, providing secure retention during transport while maintaining easy loading capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement parameters between the insert and container are made variable through the resilient tab mechanism. The tabs can change their engagement force and position based on the loading process, transitioning from a loose state during insertion to a firm engaged state during storage and transport, thus resolving the contradiction between easy loading and secure retention.
3Productivity
If test elements are stored vertically in an insert, then space utilization is improved, but accessing remaining test elements becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The insert is segmented into multiple compartments or sections with adjustable retaining walls. This segmentation allows test elements to be stored vertically for space efficiency while creating defined access points in each compartment. Users can access test elements from the front of each section without disturbing others, maintaining both vertical storage benefits and easy accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The insert design incorporates horizontal access planes at different vertical levels, allowing users to access test elements from the front rather than having to reach deep into the container. The adjustable retaining walls create staggered access points that maintain vertical storage orientation while providing ergonomic access from another dimension (the front opening).
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
This solution enhances the retention and accessibility of test elements within the storage container, reducing contamination risks and manufacturing costs while improving user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The securing tabs are configured to frictionally engage the storage container for releasably coupling the insert to the storage container
Data Source
AI summary
Interchangeable inserts are provided for a storage container configured to receive a plurality of vertically oriented items, where the inserts include a body having a base, an upper surface having an upper opening, and an upstanding tubular sidewall extending between the base and the upper surface. The base and the tubular sidewall together define an interior space of the insert. The tubular sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface, where a pair of resilient securing tabs extend laterally from the outer surface of the tubular sidewall. The securing tabs frictionally engage the storage container for releasably coupling the insert to the storage container. Further, the insert has a first vent opening extending through the tubular sidewall through which air can enter the interior space of the body.