Z-Shaped Container With Interlocking Recesses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container systems for storing liquids and solids are not easily stackable in multiple configurations, do not prevent overfilling and spillage, and lack a convenient means for carrying or transporting.
Innovation Solution
A container with a 'Z' shaped profile, featuring angled end portions and a center portion, allowing for interlocking with adjacent containers in various orientations, integrated handles for ease of manipulation, and a reserve volume accessible when the primary volume is depleted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If containers are designed with protrusions and depressions for nesting, then stacking capability is improved, but the containers can only be stacked in one configuration and adaptability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The container is designed with multiple sets of protrusions and depressions located at different positions and orientations on its exterior surface. This universal design allows the same container to engage with identical containers in multiple different stacking configurations (vertical stacking, horizontal stacking, angled stacking), providing multi-functionality without requiring different container types for different stacking modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The container incorporates asymmetric protrusion and depression arrangements that enable stacking in non-standard orientations. By positioning engaging features at specific angular relationships rather than uniform symmetric patterns, the container can interlock with adjacent containers in varied configurations while maintaining structural stability.
2Volume of stationary object
If containers are stacked in staggered overlapping configurations, then stacking capability is improved, but storage space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container design enables nested stacking where containers can be placed within the recesses of adjacent containers. The protrusions on one container fit into corresponding depressions on neighboring containers, allowing tight packing with minimal wasted space while maintaining easy stacking operations through simple interlocking engagement.
3Ease of operation
If containers lack integrated carrying means, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation for transport is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The container integrates carrying handles directly into the container body structure, merging the carrying function with the storage function. The handles are formed as integral parts of the container wall, eliminating the need for separate carrying attachments while providing convenient grip points for transport and manipulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A container having a center portion and two side portions each situated at an angle to the center portion and extending in opposite directions such that the a left half of the container is substantially identical to a right half of the container. The container includes recesses and protrusions which enable the container to stack in two orientations generally perpendicular to each other.