Practical connection system

Abstract

A coupling system is configured for detachably attaching a first utility module (22) to a second utility module (24) wherein a base surface (40) of the first utility module is articulatable with a mounting surface (102) of the second utility module, the mounting surface of the second utility module includes at least one of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one of a pair of locking latches. The locking recess and the locking latch are fixedly disposed on a locking plate (120) rotatably hinged to the mounting surface, the locking plate being selectively rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein rotation of the locking plate causes corresponding angular displacement of the respective locking recess and locking latch about an arcuate locking / unlocking path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a utility connection system configured to facilitate removable attachment of utility modules to one another.

[0002] The term "utility module" is used hereinafter in its broad sense and is intended to refer to a variety of items of any shape and size, such as any type of container, travel luggage, any type of bag (including but not limited to soft-sided storage containers such as backpacks, sports and recreational equipment bags and gear), tool boxes, organizers, compact workbenches, cable storage, tools (e.g., hand tools, generators, and power supplies), communication modules, carrying / mounting platforms, stands, motion platforms, electrical and electronic appliances, cups, utensils, etc., and any utility module can be removably attached to another one or more utility modules. Background Art

[0003] Listed below are references that are considered relevant background to the presently disclosed subject matter:

[0004] -US20210221561

[0005] -US20210316909

[0006] Acknowledgment herein of the above references should not be inferred as meaning that these references are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0007] background

[0008] US20210221561 relates to a stackable storage system, which includes a first container, a second container, and a latch movable between a first position and a second position. The first container includes a protrusion extending away from the first container along a stacking direction. The edge portion extends from the protrusion along a plane substantially perpendicular to the stacking direction. The second container includes a recess. When the first container and the second container are stacked relative to each other in the stacking direction, the recess receives the protrusion. The latch overlaps with the edge portion relative to the stacking direction when in the first position to secure the first container and the second container. When the latch is in the second position, the latch and the edge portion are positioned in a non-overlapping manner to allow the first container to be separated from the second container.

[0009] US20210316909 discloses a modular storage unit including a removable top panel that can itself be coupled to other objects, such as a building wall or a vehicle. The top panel includes a coupling mechanism facing away from the building wall or vehicle, thereby allowing the housing to be coupled to the top panel. In another example, a drinking container includes a coupling mechanism to couple the drinking container to the modular storage unit. Summary of the invention

[0010] The present disclosure relates to a coupling system configured for removably attaching a first utility module to a second utility module, wherein a base surface of the first utility module is articulated with a mounting surface of the second utility module.

[0011] The term "utility module" is used hereinafter in its broad sense and is intended to refer to a variety of items of any shape and size, such as any type of container, travel luggage, any type of bag (including but not limited to soft-sided storage containers such as backpacks, sports and recreational equipment bags and gear), tool boxes, utility trays, compact workbenches, cable storage, tools (e.g., hand tools, generators, and power supplies), communication modules, carrying / mounting platforms, stands, motion platforms, electrical and electronic appliances, cups, utensils, etc., and any utility module can be removably attached to another one or more utility modules.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mounting surface of the second utility module includes at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches; the locking recess and the locking latch are fixedly arranged on a locking plate rotatably hinged to the mounting surface; the locking plate is capable of selectively rotating between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein rotating the locking plate causes the corresponding locking recess and the locking latch to perform corresponding angular displacements around a circular arc-shaped locking / unlocking path between engagement and disengagement with a corresponding other one of at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches fixedly constructed at the base surface of the first utility module.

[0013] It should be understood that either one of the first utility module and the second utility module can be configured to have one or more locking latches and locking recesses, and the other of the first utility module and the second utility module can be configured to have another one or more locking latches and locking recesses configured to cooperate with each other.

[0014] The term "base face" as used herein refers to any face of the first utility module, whether it is a support base, bottom base, etc.

[0015] A locking latch provided at one of the base surface and the mounting surface and a corresponding locking recess provided at the other of the base surface and the mounting surface together form a locking connection at the same locking / unlocking path, wherein the locking latch can be detachably engaged with the locking recess. In the engaged position, the base surface is locked to the mounting surface.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a utility assembly comprising a first utility module and a second utility module;

[0017] wherein the base surface of the first utility module is configured to have at least one of at least one pair of fixed locking recesses and at least one of a pair of fixed locking latches, the fixed locking recess and the fixed locking latch being angularly separated in a circular arc-shaped locking / unlocking path;

[0018] and wherein the mounting surface of the second utility module comprises at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches; the locking recess and the locking latch are fixed in an angularly spaced relationship to a locking plate rotatably hinged to the mounting surface; the locking plate is selectively rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position;

[0019] Wherein rotating the locking plate causes the corresponding locking recess and locking latch to make corresponding angular displacements around the arc-shaped locking / unlocking path between engagement and disengagement with the corresponding other of the fixed locking recess and the fixed locking latch of the first utility module.

[0020] The mounting surface of the second utility module may also include at least one second positioning member for engaging with at least one corresponding first positioning member at the base surface of the first utility module, and the first positioning member is configured to accurately position the first utility module above the second utility module and prevent rotational displacement therebetween.

[0021] According to a specific construction, the second positioning member is at least one protrusion extending from one of the mounting surface and the base surface, and the first positioning member is at least one corresponding recess arranged at the other of the mounting surface and the base surface, wherein in the assembled position, the protrusion is tightly received in the recess.

[0022] The arrangement enables the first utility module to be placed on the second utility module in a preset orientation, and further wherein the first utility module is rotatably captured when the first utility module is mounted on the second utility module. However, the first utility module is caused to be lifted from the second utility module as long as the locking plate is in the unlocked position, in which neither locking coupling is engaged. Once the locking plate is displaced to the locked position, the first utility module and the second utility module engage with each other.

[0023] In use, the first utility module is placed on the second utility module and the attached engagement therebetween is achieved by manipulating the locking plate to its locked position without requiring any displacement of the utility modules relative to each other.

[0024] Any one or more of the following features, designs, and constructions may be applied alone or in various combinations thereof to any one or more of the various aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure:

[0025] The locking plate may be configured with a lever that projects radially beyond the radius of the locking / unlocking path and is configured to displace the locking plate between its locked and unlocked positions;

[0026] In addition to the base surface, the first utility module may also include a mounting surface, and the mounting surface may be configured to be hinged to another first utility module;

[0027] the mounting surface of the first utility module being removably attachable to the first utility module;

[0028] The first utility module may be a container, wherein its bottom base constitutes the base surface and its lid constitutes the mounting surface;

[0029] The second utility module may be a mounting plate;

[0030] The locking latch and the locking recess of the locking coupling may present various features, designs and combinations:

[0031] The locking latch and the locking recess are configured to have an arcuate cross-section, the arc originating from a radius extending from the axis of rotation;

[0032] The locking latch and the locking recess of the locking coupling are arranged on the circular arc locking / unlocking path and are at the same distance from the rotation axis of the locking plate;

[0033] The base surface and the mounting surface may include two or more locking links, each link being arranged on a common circular arc locking / unlocking path, or having one or more locking links arranged at different distances from the rotation axis;

[0034] Each of the locking latch and the locking recess of the locking coupling may be configured to have recessed portions facing each other;

[0035] A pair of locking recesses or a pair of recessed portions of a locking latch may be configured to have recessed portions facing toward each other or facing away from each other;

[0036] A pair of locking recesses or locking latches may include: a first locking coupling including recessed portions having openings facing toward each other; and a second locking coupling including recessed portions having openings facing away from each other;

[0037] The pair of locking recesses or locking latches may comprise: a first locking coupling comprising recessed portions with openings facing towards each other (radially inwardly); and a first locking coupling comprising recessed portions with openings facing away from each other (radially outwardly);

[0038] The one or more locking latches and the recessed portion of the one or more locking recesses may be configured to have an engagement lip extending parallel to the rotation plane;

[0039] The one or more locking latches and the recessed portion of the one or more locking recesses may be configured to have an engagement flange extending obliquely with respect to the rotation plane;

[0040] One or both of the locking coupling flanges may be configured with a friction enhancing arrangement for increasing the contact engagement between the locking latch and the locking recess in the locked position;

[0041] the locking plate is rotatably displaceable in a rotational plane parallel to the plane of the mounting surface, wherein the rotational axis (Z) extends vertically through the plane;

[0042] When the first utility module is not placed on the second utility module, the locking plate may be biased to its unlocked position;

[0043] The locking plate may be rotatably fixed below a face of the second utility module, wherein the locking recess / locking latch extends through an opening formed at the face and protrudes upwardly from the opening;

[0044] The locking plate may be configured with a capture mechanism for capturing it in different locked or unlocked positions;

[0045] The capture mechanism may be a snap-fit ​​device constructed between one or both of the operating lever and the locking plate and the surface of the mounting surface;

[0046] the locking plate being configured with locking end stops and unlocking end stops for limiting angular displacement of the locking plate about a sector extending between the end stops;

[0047] The locking plate may be configured with a tamper-resistant locking device;

[0048] The tamper-proof locking means may be a keyhole configured at the rod of the locking plate and a corresponding keyhole at the end stop of the mounting surface configured for locking by a lock; the lock may be a padlock;

[0049] The mounting surface may be configured with an opening for fastening it to a supporting surface;

[0050] The mounting surface may be configured with strip openings for securing it to a supporting surface;

[0051] any locking latch may be replaced by a locking recess as long as at least one pair of locking latches / locking recesses is provided on one of the first utility module and the second utility module and the other of at least one pair of matching locking latches / locking recesses is provided on the other of the first utility module and the second utility module;

[0052] The second utility module may be a wheeled platform;

[0053] The wheeled platform may be a hand cart, a hand truck, a trolly, etc.

[0054] The second utility module can be applied to a rear strap or a backpack;

[0055] The second utility module may be a mounting platform hinged to or integrated with a wall, car / truck bed, workbench, etc. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] In order to better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it may be implemented in practice, embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a utility assembly according to an example of the present disclosure, the utility assembly including a first utility module in the form of a container and a second utility module in the form of a mounting plate, the second utility module in a locked position;

[0058] Figure 2A is the only Figure 1 A top perspective view of a first practical module (container);

[0059] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A bottom perspective view of the first practical module (container);

[0060] Figure 2C It is along Figure 2A The section along line 2C-2C in FIG.

[0061] Figure 2D It is along Figure 2A The section of line 2D-2D in;

[0062] Figure 2Eyes Figure 2C An enlarged plan view of the portion marked 2E in FIG.

[0063] Figure 2F yes Figure 2D An enlarged plan view of the portion marked 2F in FIG.

[0064] Figure 2G yes Figure 2D An enlarged sectional stereogram of the portion marked as 2F in FIG.

[0065] Figure 2H and Figure 2G The same, however, shows its modifications;

[0066] Figure 3A is the only Figure 1 A top perspective view of the second utility module (mounting plate) in an unlocked position;

[0067] Figure 3B It is along Figure 3A The section along line 3B-3B in FIG.

[0068] Figure 3C It is along Figure 3A The section along line 3C-3C in FIG.

[0069] Figure 4A is a top perspective view of the second utility module in a locked position;

[0070] Figure 4B It is along Figure 4A The section along line 4B-4B in FIG.

[0071] Figure 4C It is along Figure 4A The section along line 4C-4C in FIG.

[0072] Figure 5 is a perspective exploded view of the second practical module (mounting plate);

[0073] Figure 6 yes Figure 4B An enlarged view of the portion marked 6 in FIG. 1 , showing the rotational connection of the locking plate to the mounting surface;

[0074] Fig. 7A yes Figure 1 A cross-section of the assembly taken along line 7A-7A;

[0075] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A An enlarged view of the portion marked as 7B;

[0076] Figure 7C yes Fig. 7A An enlarged view of the portion marked as 7C;

[0077] Fig.7D yes Figure 1 A cross section of the assembly taken along line 7D-7D;

[0078] Fig. 7E yes Fig.7D An enlarged view of the portion marked 7E in FIG.

[0079] Figure 8 and Figure 1 The same, however, wherein the second utility module is in the unlocked position;

[0080] Fig.9A It is along Figure 8 A section along line 9A-9A in FIG.

[0081] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A An enlarged view of the portion marked as 9B;

[0082] Fig. 9C yes Fig.9A An enlarged view of the portion marked as 9C;

[0083] Fig.9D It is along Figure 8 A section along line 9D-9D in FIG.

[0084] Fig.9E yes Fig.9D An enlarged view of the portion marked 9E in FIG.

[0085] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I is a schematic diagram of different combinations of a locking latch and a locking recess of a locking coupling;

[0086] Fig.11 Another example of a locking plate mechanism used in a utility assembly according to an example of the present disclosure is shown;

[0087] Fig.12 is a front perspective view of a cart that can be coupled to a utility module according to an example of the present disclosure;

[0088] Fig.13 The utility module according to the present disclosure is attached to the Fig.12 of carts;

[0089] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B Respectively in Fig.12 , with the utility module hingedly attached to the cart;

[0090] Fig.15A and Fig. 15Bare front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a second utility module according to the present disclosure, the second utility module being a modular mounting plate; and

[0091] Fig.16 is a side view of a second utility module in the form of a backpack with a first utility module container hingedly connected to the second utility module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] Figure 1 A utility assembly according to an example of the present disclosure is shown, the utility assembly being generally designated as 20 and comprising a first utility module (generally designated as 22) hinged to a second utility module (generally designated as 24). In the example shown, the first utility module 22 is a container and the second utility module 24 is a mounting platform. However, it should be recognized that the term "utility module" is used hereinafter in its broad sense and is intended to represent a variety of items of any shape and size, such as any type of container, travel luggage, toolbox, sundry tray, compact workbench, cable storage, tools (e.g., hand tools, generators, and power supplies), communication modules, carrying / mounting platforms, stands, motion platforms, electrical and electronic appliances, cups, utensils, etc., and any utility module may be removably attached to another utility module or modules.

[0093] As in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D As best seen in , the first utility module (i.e., container 22) includes a body 30 and a lid 32 hingedly connected to the body, wherein the body 30 has a bottom base 36 with a side wall 38 extending from the bottom base. A base face 40 of the bottom base 36 is integrally constructed (e.g., during an injection molding process) with a pair of first locking recesses 42, each of which has an opening 43 facing radially inward (i.e., facing each other) and is disposed near respective opposite side ends of the bottom base 36. The base face 40 is also constructed with a concentrically disposed pair of second locking recesses 46, each of which has an opening 47 facing radially outward (i.e., facing away from each other) and is disposed at a right angle (90°) relative to the first locking recesses 42. The axis between the first locking recesses 42 and the axis between the second locking recesses 46 traverse and extend along a major (XY) axis of the bottom base 36 (the axis being at Figure 2A ).

[0094] As in Figure 2E and Figure 2FAs best seen in FIG. 1 , each of the first and second locking recesses 42, 46 has a bottom flange 48 and 50, respectively, extending parallel to the plane of rotation (a plane parallel to the base face 40) and having a flat top surface 48T; 50T and a flat bottom surface 48B; 50B that are also parallel to the base face 40. It should also be noted that the free edges of the locking recesses are chamfered at 52 to facilitate easy engagement with the corresponding locking latch, as will be explained below. The bottom surfaces 48B; 50B of the flanges 48 and 50 extend coplanar with the bottommost resting surface 52 of the first utility module 22, and the top surface 50T of the flange is configured to have a friction enhancement portion, i.e., a knurl or ridge 58 ( Figure 2G ) to increase the contact engagement on the locking recess, as will be discussed below. Figure 2G Also noted is a stop wall 62 which is configured for foolproof installation and coupling on a similar first utility module (rather than installation on a second utility module according to the present disclosure, as will become apparent hereinafter).

[0095] Figure 2H A modification of the locking recess 46' is shown in which the bottom surface 50B' is flat and extends parallel to the base face 40, however, wherein the top surface 50T is slightly tapered at an angle α° relative to the base face 40, thereby constituting a friction enhancing arrangement for increasing locking engagement with a mating locking latch, as will be explained below.

[0096] The base surface 40 of the first practical module 32 is also configured to have a pair of first positioning members, i.e., a recess 64 having a trapezoidal cross-section, the shape and size of which correspond to the positioning members arranged on the second practical module 24, so as to prevent rotational displacement (around the Z axis) or sliding displacement (in the XY plane) therebetween, as will be discussed below.

[0097] The lid 32 of the first utility module 22 (container) may be hingedly connected to the side wall 38 of the body 30 and is configured to be locked and captured on the side wall by side catches / latches 70. A pair of carrying handles 72 are pivotally secured to the lid 32.

[0098] As further seen, cover 32 is configured with a set of complementary pairs of first and second locking latches 82, 84 disposed on transversely intersecting (at 90°) axes of the cover, yet corresponding to first and second locking recesses 42, 46 disposed at the bottom surface of first utility module 22. This arrangement allows any first utility module configured with a set of corresponding first and second locking recesses 42, 46 at its base surface to be hinged on the cover of first utility module 22. However, to perform the hinge, the top utility module of the two utility modules is placed at the center of the bottom utility module of the two utility modules, rotated 90° (i.e., such that the axis between the two locking recesses 46 of the top utility module passes through the axis between the locking latches of the bottom utility module), and then the top utility module is rotated 90° to facilitate engagement of the corresponding locking latches and locking recesses. Disengagement of the two utility modules is performed in the reverse order of operation.

[0099] Now further attention is directed to the second practical module 24, in Figures 3A to 6 Best visible in.

[0100] Second utility module 24 (i.e., mounting platform) has a generally flat rectangular body 90 with a flat bottom surface 92 suitable for placement on any support surface (not shown) such as a wall, a car / truck bed, a workbench, etc. Mounting platform 24 includes a plurality of openings 96 so that it can be secured to the support surface by fasteners (not shown) and / or by fastening straps that can extend through strap openings 98 and 100. A top mounting surface 102 of second utility module 24 is mostly flat and is configured at each of its opposite ends to have a second locating member, i.e., a trapezoidal-like protrusion 110 rising from mounting surface 102, which is consistent in shape and size with the first locating member (recess 64 at the base of first utility module 22) so that when base surface 40 of first utility module 22 is positioned on mounting surface 102 of second utility module 24, it is prevented from rotating about the Z axis or shifting about the X and Y axes ( Figure 2A and Figure 4A ).

[0101] Locking plate 120 (in Figure 5 102 and is received in the space below the mounting surface 102 of the second utility module 24 and is snap-hinged to the central opening 124 by snap-fit ​​winglets 126, thereby facilitating the locking plate 120 to be moved about the Z axis in the unlocked position ( Figure 3A ) and locked position ( Figure 4A ) reciprocate between.

[0102] The locking plate 120 is equipped with a lever (handle) 130 (in a fixed position) fixed to the locking plate. Figure 5 The lever 130 protrudes from the mounting surface 102 through an arc-shaped opening 132 configured at the mounting surface 102, and the lever 130 protrudes laterally and extends almost to the side edge of the mounting plate 24. The operating lever 130 is used to reciprocately shift the locking plate 120 between the unlocked position and the locked position.

[0103] The distal end of the rod 130 is configured with a finger grip 136 that is also always extended when the first utility module is disposed on the first utility module (e.g., as in Figure 1 , Fig.7D and Figure 8 ) to easily lock / unlock the assembly, as will be discussed below.

[0104] The locking plate 120 is also configured to have a first diameter D1 disposed along the locking plate and disposed along the inner radial path 145 ( Figure 5 and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I ) and a first pair of locking latches 140A and 140B, which project radially inwardly from respective arcuate openings 147 and 132 at the mounting surface 102 and facilitate the reciprocating rotation of the locking plate 120, wherein the locking latches 140A and 140B have their tongues / flanges directed radially inwardly toward each other and are disposed at a height suitable for snap engagement within the opening 47 of the first locking recess 46. It can be seen that the locking latches 140B extend at the proximal end of the rod 130.

[0105] The second pair of locking latches 148A and 148B are disposed on a second diameter D2 of the locking plate 120 and extend 90 degrees across the first diameter D1 (eg, Figure 3A ;exist Figure 4A , diameters D1 and D2 are coextensive with axes X and Y). Second locking latches 148A and 148B are both disposed along an outer radial path 149 ( Figure 3C , Figure 4A and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I ) and face radially outward, i.e., away from each other.

[0106] The first pair of locking latches 140A and 140B and the second pair of locking latches 148A and 148B are provided with locking tongues / flanges 152 extending in alignment with the corresponding first locking recesses 42 or second locking recesses 46. Thus, when the locking plate 120 is shifted from the unlocked position to the locked position, the locking tongues / flanges 152 may be configured for articulation (i.e., snap engagement) with the corresponding locking recesses.

[0107] The locking bolts are aligned with the locking recesses with respect to the facing direction, angular distribution and radial distance of the locking tongues / flanges.

[0108] This arrangement allows the locking plate 120 to be moved in a corresponding unlocked position (eg, Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C ) and locked positions (e.g. Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 4C ), wherein in the unlocked position, the locking plate 120 is displaced in the clockwise direction (arrow 160) so that all the locking latches 140A, 140B, 148A, and 148B are disposed in the corresponding locked positions, i.e., angularly displaced from the corresponding X-Y axis, and not facing the locking recess. However, when the locking plate 120 is angularly displaced in the counterclockwise direction (arrow 162), all the locking latches 140A, 140B, 148A, and 148B are disposed in the corresponding locked positions, i.e., disposed along the corresponding X-Y axis, facing the locking recess.

[0109] In addition, the mounting platform 24 is configured to have a capture mechanism for capturing the locking plate 120 in its different locked positions or unlocked positions, respectively. Therefore, the body 90 is configured to have two protruding protrusions 170 and 172, which are arranged on the displacement radius of the operating lever 130 and correspond to the locked position and the unlocked position, respectively. In turn, the operating lever 130 is configured to have a corresponding recess (at 176), which can be captured in a snap-fit ​​manner by either of the protruding protrusions 170 and 172. In addition, an arrangement is provided for limiting the angular displacement of the locking plate 120 around the sector on the mounting surface 102 of the second utility module 24 by a locking end stop 180 and an unlocking end stop 182 protruding from the mounting surface 102.

[0110] The locking plate 120 is configured with a tamper-resistant locking device, wherein the lever 130 can be locked in its locked position by means of a padlock (not shown) that can be inserted through a keyhole 186 extending through the lever 130 and a corresponding keyhole 188 extending through the locking end stop 180. Once locked, the lever 130 and the locking plate 120 cannot be manipulated to their unlocked positions, whereby the first utility module cannot be removed from the second utility module.

[0111] According to the present disclosure, hinged connection of the first utility module (container 22) to the second utility module (mounting platform 24) is performed as follows:

[0112] - ensuring that the locking plate 120 is in its unlocked position, ie set clockwise, until the operating lever encounters the unlocking end stop 182;

[0113] - placing the first utility module 22 on the second utility module 24, oriented so that the X-Y axes of the two utility modules are coextensive and wherein the first positioning member (the trapezoidal-shaped recess 64) receives the second positioning member (the trapezoidal-shaped protrusion 110 of the mounting surface 102), thereby preventing rotational displacement (about the Z axis) and sliding displacement (at the XY plane) therebetween;

[0114] - Manipulating the lever 130 in the counterclockwise direction (arrow 162) so as to shift the locking plate 120 into its locking position, against the locking end stop 180, whereby the first utility module 22 is hinged to the second utility module 24 in the locking position and cannot be removed therefrom unless the locking plate is manipulated back into its unlocking position.

[0115] Notably, articulating / detaching the first utility module relative to the second utility module does not require rotating or performing any other manipulation of the first utility module, other than requiring a joystick.

[0116] In the example shown, the base surface 40 of the first utility module 22 is configured to have two pairs of locking recesses 42 and 46, wherein the locking recess 42 faces radially inward and the locking recess 46 faces radially outward, and correspondingly, the mounting surface 102 of the second utility module 24 is configured to have two sets of complementary matching locking latches 140A; 140B and 148A; 148B; wherein the locking latches 140A; 140B face radially inward, and the locking latches 148A and 148B face radially outward.

[0117] As long as at least one pair of locking latches / locking recesses is provided on one of the first utility module and the second utility module, and the other of at least one matching pair of locking latches / locking recesses is provided on the other of the first utility module and the second utility module, any locking latch can be replaced by a locking recess.

[0118] Therefore, it should be understood that different combinations and arrangements of locking recesses and locking latches are possible, as shown schematically in the diagrams of several combinations. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I , where some elements use the same reference numerals for clarity, and where radially inwardly facing elements (locking latches or locking recesses) are identified by radially inwardly facing arcs, and likewise, radially outwardly facing elements (locking latches or locking recesses) are identified by radially outwardly facing arcs. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I In the example, only the second practical module is shown, so it should be understood that the first practical module ( FIG. 10A to FIG. 10I ) is configured with a relative / matching locking latch or locking recess, which is configured for articulation with the second utility module, as explained above. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10IIn the embodiment of the present invention, locking bolt and locking recess are collectively referred to as locking element. In addition, all locking elements in the following examples are shown to be in their corresponding locking positions.

[0119] exist Fig. 10A , a first pair of locking elements 202A and 202B are disposed about inner radial path 145, with locking element 202A facing radially inward and locking element 202B facing radially outward. A second pair of locking elements 204A and 204B are disposed about outer radial path 149, with locking element 204A facing radially outward and locking element 204B facing radially inward.

[0120] exist Fig. 10B 14, a first pair of locking elements 206A and 206B are disposed about inner radial path 145, wherein both locking elements 206A and 206B face radially inwardly. A second pair of locking elements 208A and 208B are disposed about outer radial path 149, wherein both locking elements 208A and 208B face radially outwardly.

[0121] exist Fig. 10C 14, a first pair of locking elements 210A and 210B are disposed about inner radial path 145, wherein both locking elements 210A and 210B face radially inward. A second pair of locking elements 212A and 212B are disposed about outer radial path 149, wherein both locking elements 212A and 212B face radially inward.

[0122] exist FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C In the example of FIG. 1 , the corresponding locking elements are arranged coaxially with the normal axes X–X and YY (in their locked position), Fig. 10D In , the locking elements are arranged at offset angles about the axes X'-X' and Y'-Y' respectively (in their locked positions). Fig. 10D 14, a first pair of locking elements 214A and 214B are disposed about inner radial path 145, wherein both locking elements 214A and 214B face radially inwardly. A second pair of locking elements 216A and 216B are disposed about outer radial path 149, wherein both locking elements 216A and 216B face radially outwardly.

[0123] exist FIG. 10A to FIG. 10D In the embodiment, the first pair of locking elements are arranged offset by 90° relative to the second pair of locking elements. Fig.10E 14, a first pair of locking elements 218A and 218B are disposed around the inner radial path 145, wherein both locking elements 218A and 218B face radially outward. A second pair of locking elements 220A and 220B are disposed co-linearly with the first pair of locking elements 218A and 218B around the outer radial path 149, wherein both locking elements 220A and 220B face radially outward.

[0124] exist Fig.10F In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , there is only one pair (a first pair) of locking elements 214A and 214B disposed about the outer radial path 149 , wherein both locking elements 214A and 214B face radially outward about the XX axis.

[0125] exist Figure 10G In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , there is only one pair (a first pair) of locking elements 216A and 216B disposed about the outer radial path 149 , wherein both locking elements 216A and 216B face radially inward about the XX axis.

[0126] exist Fig. 10H In FIG. 1 , there is only one pair (a first pair) of locking elements 218A and 218B disposed about the inner radial path 145 , wherein both locking elements 218A and 218B face radially inward about the YY axis.

[0127] exist Fig.10I , a first set of locking elements includes three locking elements 220A, 220B, and 220C arranged around the inner radial path 145 (spaced 120° apart), wherein the locking elements 220B and 220C face radially outward, and the locking element 220A faces radially inward. A second set of locking elements 222A, 222B, and 222C are arranged around the outer radial path 149 (spaced 120° apart), wherein the locking elements 222A and 222B face radially outward, and the locking element 222C faces radially inward.

[0128] In the attached figure Fig.11 A utility assembly, generally designated 230, is shown including a first utility module 232 (ie, a container similar to those disclosed above) and a second utility module 234, ie, a mounting plate, however, the utility assembly is a modification of the present disclosure.

[0129] Fig.11The second utility module 24 (i.e., mounting platform) has a generally flat rectangular body 236 similar to the previously disclosed bodies, i.e., having a flat bottom surface 238 suitable for placement on any support surface (not shown) such as a wall, a car / truck bed, a workbench, etc. The mounting platform 234 includes a plurality of openings 240 so that it can be secured to the support surface by fasteners (not shown) and / or by fastening straps that can extend through the strap openings 242 and 244. The top mounting surface 248 of the second utility module 234 is mostly flat and is constructed at each opposite end thereof to have a second positioning member, i.e., a trapezoidal protrusion 250 rising from the mounting surface 248, the second positioning member 250 being consistent in shape and size with the first positioning member (the recess 255 at the base of the first utility module 232) so that when the base surface 235 of the first utility module 232 is positioned on the mounting surface 248 of the second utility module 234, it is prevented from rotating about the Z axis or shifting about the X and Y axes.

[0130] In contrast to the previously shown example, the locking plate 260 is fixed to the mounting surface 248 and is configured to be movable about the Z axis in a corresponding unlocked position ( Fig.11 ) and a locked position (not shown).

[0131] The locking plate 260 is configured with a pair of first locking latches 266A and 266B disposed on a diameter and facing inwardly toward each other and a pair of second locking latches 270A and 270B disposed on a diameter transverse thereto and facing outwardly away from each other.

[0132] Hinge connection of first utility module 232 to second utility module 234 is also performed in a similar manner as previously discussed herein, except that locking plate 260 is mounted to mounting surface 248 .

[0133] Now turn to the accompanying figure Figures 12 to 16 , showing several example second practical modules according to the present disclosure.

[0134] exist Fig.12 , a wheeled cart 280 is shown that includes a frame 282, the front of which is a mounting platform 284 constructed according to the second utility module 24 described previously herein. The frame 282 includes a pair of wheels 286 at its bottom portion and a retractable motion handle 288 at its top portion (in Fig.13 , handle 288 is in its retracted position).

[0135] exist Fig.13 and Fig.14A , Fig. 14B2 shows an assembly 290 that includes a first utility module according to the present disclosure (ie, similar to the container 22 discussed above) and a cart 280, wherein mounting and removal of the container 22 from the cart 280 is performed as discussed in conjunction with the previous examples.

[0136] Further attention is paid to the mounting platform generally designated 294. Fig.15A and Fig. 15B The platform is configured at the front 296 with a second utility module 294 connection system, similar to the disclosure of the second utility module 24, as discussed above. The back 298 of the mounting platform 294 is configured with a plurality of hinged straps 302 and storage compartments 304, and optionally with tie straps for converting the mounting platform 294 into a backpack 310, as Fig.16 As shown, the figure further illustrates a first utility module (ie, container 22) according to the present disclosure similar to that discussed above.

Claims

1. A connection system, wherein the connection system is configured to detachably attach a first utility module to a second utility module, wherein the base surface of the first utility module is capable of being hingedly connected to the mounting surface of the second utility module, and the mounting surface of the second utility module includes at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches; the locking recess and the locking latch are fixedly arranged on a locking plate rotatably hinged to the mounting surface; the locking plate is capable of selectively rotating between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein rotating the locking plate causes the corresponding locking recess and the locking latch to perform corresponding angular displacements around an arc-shaped locking / unlocking path, between engaging and disengaging with a corresponding other of at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches fixedly configured at the base surface of the first utility module.

2. A connection system according to claim 1, wherein either the first utility module and the second utility module can be configured to have one or more locking latches and locking recesses, and the other of the first utility module and the second utility module can be configured to have another one or more locking latches and locking recesses configured to cooperate with each other.

3. A connection system according to claim 1, wherein a locking latch arranged at one of the base surface and the mounting surface and a corresponding locking recess arranged at the other of the base surface and the mounting surface form a locking connection together at the same locking / unlocking path, wherein the locking latch is capable of being detachably engaged with the locking recess, and wherein in the engaged position, the base surface is locked to the mounting surface.

4. A connection system according to claim 1, wherein the mounting surface of the second utility module also includes at least one second positioning member for engaging with at least one corresponding first positioning member at the base surface of the first utility module, and the first positioning member is configured to accurately position the first utility module above the second utility module and prevent rotational displacement therebetween.

5. A connection system according to claim 4, wherein the second positioning member is at least one protrusion extending from one of the mounting surface and the base surface, and the first positioning member is at least one corresponding recess arranged at the other of the mounting surface and the base surface, wherein in the assembled position, the protrusion is tightly received in the recess.

6. The connection system of claim 1, wherein the first utility module is positionable on the second utility module in a preset orientation, further wherein the first utility module is rotatably captured when the first utility module is mounted on the second utility module, and further wherein the first utility module is facilitated to be lifted from the second utility module as long as the locking plate is in the unlocked position in which the locking connection is not engaged.

7. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein attaching engagement of the first utility module to the second utility module is accomplished by manipulating the locking plate to its locked position without requiring any displacement of the utility modules relative to each other.

8. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is configured with a lever that projects radially beyond a radius of the locking / unlocking path and is configured for shifting the locking plate between its locked and unlocked positions.

9. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein in addition to the base surface, the first utility module further comprises a mounting surface configurable for articulating with another first utility module.

10. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the mounting face of the first utility module is removably attachable to the first utility module.

11. The coupling system of claim 1 , wherein the first utility module is a container wherein a bottom base thereof constitutes the base surface and a lid thereof constitutes the mounting surface.

12. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the second utility module is a mounting plate.

13. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking latch and the locking recess are configured to have an arcuate cross-section, the arc resulting from a radius extending from an axis of rotation.

14. The coupling system according to claim 1, wherein the locking latch and the locking recess of the locking coupling are arranged on the circular arc locking / unlocking path and are at the same distance from the rotation axis of the locking plate.

15. The connection system of claim 1, wherein the base surface and the mounting surface include two or more locking connections, each connection being arranged on a common arc-shaped locking / unlocking path, or having one or more locking connections arranged at different distances from the rotation axis. 16 . The coupling system according to claim 1 , wherein each of the locking latch and the locking recess of the locking coupling is configured to have recessed portions facing each other.

17. The coupling system according to claim 1, wherein the recessed portions of a pair of locking recesses or a pair of locking latches are configured to have the recessed portions facing each other or facing away from each other.

18. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the pair of locking recesses or locking latches comprises: a first locking coupling including recessed portions having openings facing each other; and a second locking coupling including a recessed portion having openings facing away from each other.

19. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the pair of locking recesses or locking latches comprises: a first locking coupling including a recessed portion having openings facing radially inwardly toward each other; and a first locking coupling including recessed portions having openings facing radially outwardly away from each other.

20. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the one or more locking latches and the recessed portions of the one or more locking recesses are configured with engagement flanges extending parallel to a rotational plane.

21. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the one or more locking latches and the recessed portions of the one or more locking recesses are configured to have engagement flanges extending obliquely relative to the rotational plane.

22. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein one or both of the flanges of the locking coupling are configured with a friction enhancing arrangement for increasing contact engagement between the locking latch and the locking recess in the locked position.

23. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is rotationally displaceable in a rotational plane parallel to the plane of the mounting surface, wherein an axis of rotation (Z) extends perpendicularly through the plane.

24. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is biased to its unlocked position when the first utility module is not placed on the second utility module.

25. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is rotatably secured beneath a face of the second utility module, wherein the locking recess / latching portion extends through an opening formed at the face and protrudes upwardly from the opening.

26. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is configured with a capture mechanism for capturing the locking plate in different locked positions or unlocked positions.

27. The coupling system of claim 26, wherein the capture mechanism is a snap-fit ​​device configured between one or both of the lever and the locking plate and a surface of the mounting surface.

28. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is configured with locking end stops and unlocking end stops for limiting angular displacement of the locking plate about a sector extending between the end stops.

29. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the locking plate is configured with a tamper-resistant locking device.

30. A connection system according to claim 29, wherein the anti-tamper locking device is a keyhole configured at the rod of the locking plate and a corresponding keyhole configured at the end stop of the mounting surface for locking by a lock; the lock can be a padlock.

31. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the mounting surface is configured with an opening for securing the mounting surface to a support surface.

32. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein the mounting surface is configured with a strap opening for securing the mounting surface to a support surface.

33. A connection system according to claim 1, wherein any locking latch can be replaced by a locking recess as long as at least one pair of locking latches / locking recesses is provided on one of the first utility module and the second utility module, and the other of at least one matching pair of locking latches / locking recesses is provided on the other of the first utility module and the second utility module.

34. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the second utility module is a wheeled platform.

35. The wheeled platform can be a hand truck, a hand truck, a small wheeled cart, etc.

36. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein the second utility module is applied to a backpack.

37. The attachment system of claim 1, wherein the second utility module comprises a tie strap.

38. The coupling system of claim 1, wherein the second utility module is a mounting platform hingedly attachable to or integrated with a wall surface.

39. The second utility module is a mounting platform that can be hinged to the vehicle part or integrated with the vehicle part.

40. A utility assembly, the utility assembly comprising a first utility module and a second utility module; wherein the base surface of the first utility module is configured to have at least one of at least one pair of fixed locking recesses and at least one of a pair of fixed locking latches, the fixed locking recess and the fixed locking latch being angularly separated in a circular arc-shaped locking / unlocking path; and wherein the mounting surface of the second utility module comprises at least one locking recess of at least one pair of locking recesses and at least one locking latch of a pair of locking latches; the locking recess and the locking latch are fixed in an angularly spaced relationship to a locking plate rotatably hinged to the mounting surface; the locking plate is selectively rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position; Wherein rotating the locking plate causes the corresponding locking recess and locking latch to make corresponding angular displacements around the arc-shaped locking / unlocking path between engagement and disengagement with the corresponding other of the fixed locking recess and the fixed locking latch of the first utility module.

Images