Practical assembly and coupling mechanism

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to coupling mechanisms for detachably attaching two or more utility modules to each other, utility assemblies, mobile carriers, and other attachable modules and items.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Practical Components and Connecting Mechanisms", with an international filing date of April 30, 2017, international application number PCT / IL2017 / 050481, and national application number 201780002048.8. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a container assembly, and more specifically to a utility assembly comprising two or more utility modules that are detachably attached. This disclosure also relates to a coupling mechanism that facilitates the detachable attachment of utility modules to each other.

[0003] The term “utility module” is used in its broad sense below and is intended to refer to a variety of items of any shape and size, such as storage containers, travel suitcases, toolboxes, organizers, compression workbenches, cable storage containers, tools (such as hand tools, generators and power supplies), communication modules, transport platforms, motion platforms, etc., and any utility module therein can be detachably attached to any other utility module.

[0004] The term “utility component” as used in this article refers to any set of utility modules configured to be hinged to each other as fixed or moving units. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The first aspect of this disclosure relates to a coupling mechanism configured to easily and detachably attach any first article to any second article, wherein any first article and any second article can be any utility module.

[0006] The coupling mechanism includes a male coupling located on one face of a first utility module and a female coupling located on the other face of the first utility module and the second utility module. The female coupling has a recessed locking position with at least one locking rib disposed above the recessed surface and extending along a sliding path, having an open edge facing a first direction. The male coupling has a protruding locking position configured to align with the recessed locking position and having at least one locking tongue extending along the engagement sliding path in a second direction opposite to the first direction and configured to stop engagement in the space between the locking rib and the recessed surface. The coupling mechanism also includes at least one locking member for stopping the first utility module relative to the second utility module and preventing sliding displacement along the sliding path.

[0007] This arrangement ensures that, in the locked position of the utility components, at least one locking tongue of the male connector engages beneath the at least one locking rib of the female connector, and at least one locking member is engaged, thereby preventing any corresponding displacement between the first and second utility modules and holding the coupling mechanism in the engaged and locked position.

[0008] As used herein, the term "first utility module" refers to any utility module on which at least one second utility module is supported. The second utility module of a utility component may include three or more levels of utility modules and functions as a first utility module relative to a third-level utility module mounted thereon and thus serving as a second utility module.

[0009] According to some implementations, one or more female connectors are disposed on the top surface of the first utility module, and one or more male connectors are disposed on the bottom surface of the second utility module.

[0010] The disclosed subject matter relates to a utility module configured with at least one of the male and female coupling mechanisms of the present disclosure, a module component comprising one or more utility modules of the aforementioned type, and a set of utility modules of the aforementioned type.

[0011] According to the configuration of the first aspect, a utility component is provided, comprising at least one first utility module and at least one second utility module, and including a connecting mechanism disposed between the first utility module and the second utility module; the connecting mechanism includes one or more recessed locking positions, each configured with a locking rib, and at least one locking latch stop position at one of the top surfaces of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module; and the other of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module includes one or more protrusions, each configured with a locking tongue, registered to the one or more recessed locking positions, and at least one locking latch registered to the at least one locking latch stop position.

[0012] This arrangement ensures that, in the locked position, the bottom surface of the second utility module is at least partially positioned above the top surface of the first utility module, and one or more protruding tongues are stopped by corresponding one or more locking ribs, and at least one locking latch is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking latch stop position, thereby preventing sliding displacement between the first and second utility modules, and further wherein disengagement of the second utility module from the first utility module is facilitated by disengaging at least one locking latch from at least one locking latch stop position.

[0013] When one or more recessed locking positions and one or more protrusions are positioned one in front of the other (although not necessarily aligned), a locking engagement is achieved between the second utility module and the first utility module.

[0014] Depending on the specific configuration of the coupling mechanism, one or more recessed locking positions and one or more locking latch stop positions are disposed on the top surface of the first utility module, and one or more protrusions and at least one locking latch are disposed on the bottom surface of the second utility module. According to this configuration, locking between the first and second utility modules is achieved by positioning the second utility module above it such that one or more locking tongues of the protrusions engage with one or more corresponding locking ribs of the recessed locking positions, wherein the locking latches interlock with the corresponding locking latch stop positions.

[0015] This arrangement enables an attachment engagement between the second utility module and the first utility module when one or more locking tongues and corresponding one or more locking ribs engage to prevent vertical separation between the utility modules (i.e., to prevent the second utility module from being lifted relative to the first utility module), and further, when the locking latch is stopped by the corresponding locking latch stop position to prevent one utility module from sliding relative to the other (i.e., the second module sliding above the first module).

[0016] The second utility module can only be disengaged from the first utility module after the locking latch has been disengaged from the locking latch stop position.

[0017] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a coupling mechanism for a utility component is disclosed, the utility component comprising at least a first utility module and at least a second utility module, the coupling mechanism being disposed between the first utility module and the second utility module, and including at least one recessed locking position with a locking rib and at least one locking latch stop position at one of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module; and the other of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module including at least one protrusion with a locking tongue configured to align with the at least one recessed locking position and at least one locking latch configured to align with the at least one locking latch stop position; and wherein, at the locking position, the bottom surface is at least partially disposed on the top surface, and at least one protruding tongue is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking rib, and at least one locking latch is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking latch stop position, and further wherein, disengagement of the second utility module from the first utility module is facilitated by disengaging the at least one locking latch from the at least one locking latch stop position.

[0018] The engagement of the first and second utility modules into a locked position is provided by sliding the second utility module relative to the first utility module along a sliding path defined by at least one of the at least one locking rib and the at least one locking tongue.

[0019] According to one specific configuration, at least one locking rib extends generally parallel to the sliding path, and according to another configuration, at least one locking rib extends generally perpendicular to the sliding path and intersects the sliding path.

[0020] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to a practical module as a mobile carrier unit, and includes at least one carrier engagement surface adapted to be detachably interlocked with a first engagement surface of the practical module.

[0021] As used herein, the term "carrier unit" refers to any type of propulsion wheeled vehicle configured for detachably attaching and carrying loads. A carrier unit can be a handcart, a mobile tool cart, a mobile workshop, a travel luggage cart, a handcart, etc.

[0022] Referring specifically to the third aspect, the carrier mating surface can be larger than the first mating surface of its corresponding utility module. In this case, several utility modules can be interlocked simultaneously on a single carrier unit.

[0023] According to one configuration, a carrier unit is disclosed, the carrier unit including an actuation arrangement, a motion system, and an engagement surface including one or more engagement elements. The carrier unit is configured to be detachably interlocked with one or more utility modules, each utility module including a first engagement surface configured with one or more first engagement elements adapted to be detachably interlocked with carrier engagement elements.

[0024] According to another configuration, an assembly is disclosed comprising a carrier unit and at least one utility module, the carrier unit including a mating surface comprising one or more mating elements, and the at least one utility module being configured with at least one first mating surface including one or more first mating elements adapted to be detachably interlocked with the mating elements of the carrier unit.

[0025] According to this modification, a container unit is also provided, which includes a top member configured with a second mating surface of a utility module, wherein, according to one example, the top member constitutes a cover for the utility module.

[0026] This arrangement allows the container unit to be easily and readily applied to the carrier unit and interlockedly hinged to the carrier unit, or applied to a utility module configured with a second engagement surface that mimics the first engagement surface of the carrier unit.

[0027] The engagement between the carrier unit and the container, and further between the two containers, is facilitated by any locking mechanism disclosed in the context.

[0028] According to a specific example, a latching mechanism exists, wherein the first engaging element of the carrier unit is configured to interlock with the engaging element of the mating surface of the corresponding utility module. The latching mechanism can take various configurations, such as male-female couplings, dovetail couplings, and the like. This arrangement allows the utility module to be locked onto the carrier unit and subsequently disassembled with only minimal displacement.

[0029] According to a specific configuration, the detachable interlocking engagement mechanism between the carrier engagement element and the first engagement element of the utility module is a dovetail engagement mechanism, which includes a laterally projecting shoulder disposed on one of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the utility module and a shoulder receiving recess disposed on the other of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the utility module; wherein the laterally projecting shoulder is configured to slide into the shoulder receiving recess.

[0030] Depending on the specific configuration, one or both of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the corresponding utility module are provided with recesses, each recess accommodating a corresponding laterally protruding locking shoulder.

[0031] The dovetail joint mechanism components constitute the joint elements, wherein the carrier joint element includes one of the dovetail joint components, and the first joint element of the utility module includes the corresponding dovetail joint component.

[0032] According to another configuration, the detachable interlocking engagement mechanism between the carrier engagement element and the first engagement element of the utility module is an undercut engagement mechanism, which includes a lateral protrusion configured on one of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the container unit and a receiving recess configured on the other of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the container unit; wherein the lateral protrusion is configured to engage with the receiving recess.

[0033] By placing the first engagement surface of the utility module on the carrier engagement surface, such that the first engagement element of the utility module is configured to move above the corresponding carrier engagement element of the carrier unit, and then slide to obtain a sliding interlock engagement between them, an interlock engagement between the utility module and the carrier unit occurs.

[0034] The detachable interlocking engagement mechanism may further include a locking mechanism configured to prevent the sliding engagement element from being unintentionally disassembled after it is fully interlocked, i.e., to prevent the utility module from being disassembled from the carrier unit or from another utility module after the sliding engagement element is fully interlocked.

[0035] According to one configuration, the locking mechanism includes a locking pin configured to snap-fit ​​from one mating surface into a designated recess on the other mating surface. This prevents the mating surfaces from sliding relative to each other, and thus also prevents the mating elements from sliding apart after interlocking.

[0036] According to one configuration, when the carrier unit is horizontally balanced with the ground, the carrier engagement surface of the carrier unit constitutes the top wall of the carrier unit, and wherein, when the utility module is horizontally balanced with the ground, the first engagement surface of the utility module constitutes the bottom wall of the container unit. The utility module may also include a second engagement surface that constitutes the top wall or cover of the utility module when it is horizontally balanced with the ground. The second engagement surface of the utility module simulates the carrier engagement surface because it is adapted to engage with the first engagement surface of another utility module.

[0037] Any one or more of the following features, designs, and configurations may be implemented individually or in various combinations thereof in utility modules, utility components, locking mechanisms, and carrier units and components according to this disclosure:

[0038] - A single locking rib may extend at the rear end of the recessed locking position (i.e., the female connector may include a single locking rib) and be generally perpendicular to the sliding path;

[0039] - Two locking ribs may extend at the side edge of the recessed locking position (i.e., the female connector may include two locking ribs) and be configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path;

[0040] - Two locking ribs may each extend at the corresponding side edge of two adjacent recessed locking positions, the locking ribs being configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path;

[0041] - The utility components can be modular, wherein the top surface of the first utility module can interlock with the bottom surface of the second utility module disposed above it in a substantially completely overlapping relationship, or interlock with the bottom surface of at least one second utility module that only partially overlaps with it.

[0042] - A second utility module that largely overlaps with the first utility module may be configured with a single release latch for displacing several locking latches articulated therewith;

[0043] - Two or more second utility modules may be mounted on top of the first utility module, and each second utility module may be independently and detachably attached to the first utility module;

[0044] -At least one second utility module is configured for snap-locking above the first utility module;

[0045] - A release latch for shifting the locking latch to disengage from the locking latch stop position may be located at the front of the corresponding second utility module;

[0046] - At least one locking latch and at least one locking latch stop position may be located at the front of the respective utility module;

[0047] - At least one of the first utility module and the second utility module is configured with a sliding surface to facilitate the displacement and positioning of the corresponding second utility module relative to the first utility module in a locked position;

[0048] - The sliding surface reduces the tolerance between the protrusion and the recessed locking position that receives the protrusion;

[0049] - One or both of the locking tongue and locking rib may be configured with inclined surfaces in the corresponding orientation along the sliding path to reduce or substantially eliminate the tolerances therebetween;

[0050] - One or both of the front edge of the protrusion and the corresponding front edge of the recessed locking position can be tilted to slide the second utility module into the true locking position above the first utility module.

[0051] - The locking latch can be configured to shift in a direction that is generally orthogonal to the corresponding face of the utility module;

[0052] - The locking latch can be spring-biased and configured to typically protrude from the face of the respective first or second utility module;

[0053] - The locking latch can be operated so that it can be opened through an opening configured in the front wall of the corresponding utility module;

[0054] - The corners of practical modules can be reinforced;

[0055] - One or more utility modules can be container modules, and utility components can be container components / toolboxes;

[0056] - Container modules can be divided and configured with sub-containers and sub-compartments;

[0057] - The top surface of the container module can be constructed as a cover or functional component of the container module;

[0058] -The lid of the second container can also be opened when the second container is hinged and locked above the first container;

[0059] -The lid of the first container can also be opened when the second container is hinged and locked above the first container;

[0060] - At least one container module in the container module can be a motion container and can be configured with an arrangement for moving the container module. This facilitates the movement of the utility component when the motion container is attached to other container modules;

[0061] - The container module can be configured to have a carrying arrangement disposed on any one or more of its faces. Depending on the specific configuration, a carrying handle may be provided on the front of the container module, and depending on another configuration, a carrying handle may be provided on the side of the container module;

[0062] Examples of utility modules can be any one or more of the following: cooling boxes, workpiece fixtures, power supplies (e.g., power banks, generators), hand tools, power tools, motion platforms (e.g., work vehicles), powered or unpowered, tactical units (e.g., military equipment, scientific equipment, communication equipment, personal equipment, outdoor equipment, etc.).

[0063] - The toolbox can be configured with a carrying handle (e.g., telescopic).

[0064] - The utility module can be a soft-shell container having at least a rigid surface portion configured with male / female couplings;

[0065] - A utility module can be an interface connection module, that is, it is only used as a connection interface;

[0066] - The interface connection module can be fixedly or detachably attached to the surface of any component or object in different arrangements;

[0067] - The interface connection module can be a cargo interface module for a practical vehicle to attach one or more practical modules to the vehicle;

[0068] - Cargo interface modules can be bed cargo modules, roof rack modules, etc.;

[0069] - The interface connection module can be a surface mount for attaching utility modules, such as a floor mount, wall mount, wall shelf, etc.

[0070] -The interface connection module can be a tool mount / bracket;

[0071] - The interface connection module can be equipped with a mounting bracket for mounting utility modules (such as handheld tools) onto the work belt;

[0072] - The interface connection module can be an interface mounting module for connecting two utility modules to each other, for example for hinged connection of two utility modules, both utility modules being configured with similar male or female connectors, and wherein the interface mounting module is configured with the other of the male or female connectors on two sides.

[0073] - The interface connection module can be a backpack transport module to facilitate the attachment and transport of utility modules;

[0074] - The top surface of the utility module may be equipped with a carrying handle, which is movable between a retracted position and a carrying position, wherein in the retracted position, the carrying handle extends at least partially within the niche and does not interfere with the connecting mechanism.

[0075] - The carrier unit may include one or more auxiliary mating surfaces located on the outside of the carrier unit. For example, the auxiliary mating surfaces may be configured on the bottom surface of the carrier unit;

[0076] -The carrier unit may include a second bonding surface that simulates / mimics the first bonding surface of a utility module;

[0077] - The utility module can be configured with one or more auxiliary first and second mating surfaces;

[0078] - The carrier mating surface can be a connection platform that can be detachably attached to the outer surface of the carrier unit, which facilitates the wheel unit or carrier unit according to the present disclosure;

[0079] - One or both of the first and second mating surfaces of the utility module may be detachably attached to the outer surface of the utility module;

[0080] - The carrier bonding surface and the first bonding surface of the utility module can be similar elements;

[0081] - The first and second mating surfaces of a utility module can be similar elements;

[0082] - The bonding elements of the carrier unit and the first bonding element of the utility module can be similar elements;

[0083] - A mating surface may include several mating elements and a locking mechanism;

[0084] - The coupling mechanism is configured to spontaneously shift into a locking engagement within the locking receiver, wherein only manual intervention is required to unlock the locking mechanism and to detach the utility module from the corresponding utility module or carrier unit.

[0085] - The coupling mechanism may be a spring-biased locking pin, which typically protrudes from the corresponding mating surface;

[0086] - One or both of the carrier unit and the utility module may also include a locking mechanism, which is specified to prevent unintentional separation of the mating surfaces when they interlock.

[0087] - The locking mechanism is operable between an unlocked position in which the mating surfaces can slide relative to each other and a locked state in which the mating surfaces cannot slide relative to each other;

[0088] - The locking mechanism can be configured to have a biasing mechanism for at least the snap-stop in its locked state;

[0089] - The locking mechanism can be configured with a manually operated activation section for switching between the unlocked and locked positions.

[0090] - The carrier unit can be assembled with other carrier units in the same way that it is assembled with the utility module;

[0091] - The motion system of the carrier unit may include wheel trains (such as axially fixed rollers, rotating wheels, etc.), sliding platforms, caterpillar tracks, etc.

[0092] -According to a specific example, the motion system of the carrier unit includes a plurality of wheels with fixed axles, wherein the periphery of the wheels is tangent to the base edge of the carrier unit;

[0093] - In the assembly configuration, one or more utility modules are attached to the carrier unit, the components can be positioned vertically, and the sides of one or more containers are positioned above a supporting surface. According to a specific example, in this location, the carrier unit and container assembly are configured with stabilizing members to maintain their stability while being positioned perpendicular to the ground;

[0094] - The carrier unit can be stable when horizontally positioned relative to the ground through a support system protruding from its bottom surface. The support system may include friction-enhancing surfaces to limit displacement of the component when it is placed above the support surface;

[0095] - The carrier unit can be foldable into a more compact configuration;

[0096] - The carrier unit may include an external storage box that is detachably interconnected with its outer wall;

[0097] - The carrier unit may include a power source that is detachably interconnected with its outer wall;

[0098] - The transport system of the carrier unit can be motorized when powered by the power source;

[0099] - The carrier unit may also include a locking mechanism to ensure the interlocking connection of the mating surfaces;

[0100] - Container units may include non-rigid components;

[0101] - The carrier unit may include at least one actuation arrangement, which is configurable between a retracted position and an extended actuation position. The actuation arrangement may be a telescopic or folding handle;

[0102] - The control arrangement can be a grip handle, a D-shaped grip handle, a T-shaped grip handle, a flexible belt, etc.

[0103] Implementation Plan

[0104] This disclosure also includes embodiments defined in the phrases numbered below. It should be noted that these numbered embodiments are intended to be incorporated into this disclosure and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

[0105] 1. A coupling mechanism configured for easily and detachably attaching a first utility module to a second utility module, the coupling mechanism comprising a male coupling member located on a face of one of the first utility module and the second utility module, and a female coupling member located on a face of the other of the first utility module and the second utility module, the female coupling member having a recessed locking position having at least one locking rib disposed above the recessed surface and extending along a sliding path and having an opening edge facing a first direction; the male coupling member having a protruding locking position configured to align with the recessed locking position and having at least one locking tongue extending along the engagement sliding path in a second direction opposite to the first direction and configured to stop engagement in the space between the locking rib and the recessed surface, the coupling mechanism further comprising at least one locking member for stopping the first utility module relative to the second utility module and preventing sliding displacement along the sliding path.

[0106] 2. The connecting mechanism according to embodiment 1, wherein the female connector is disposed on the top surface of the first utility module and the male connector is disposed on the bottom surface of the second utility module.

[0107] 3. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially parallel to the sliding path.

[0108] 4. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially perpendicular to the sliding path and intersects the sliding path.

[0109] 5. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the female connector includes a single locking rib extending at the rear end of the recessed locking position and substantially perpendicular to the sliding path.

[0110] 6. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the female connector includes two locking ribs that extend at the side edge of the recessed locking position and are configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path.

[0111] 7. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the female connector includes two locking ribs, each locking rib extending at a corresponding side edge of two adjacent recessed locking positions, the locking ribs being configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path.

[0112] 8. A coupling mechanism for a utility component, the utility component comprising at least one first utility module and at least one second utility module, the coupling mechanism being disposed between the first utility module and the second utility module; one of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module includes at least one recessed locking position with a locking rib and at least one locking latch stop position; and the other of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module includes at least one protrusion with a locking tongue configured to mate with the at least one recessed locking position, and at least one locking latch configured to mate with the at least one locking latch stop position; and wherein... In the locked position, the bottom surface is at least partially positioned above the top surface, and the at least one protruding tongue is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking rib, and the at least one locking latch is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking latch stop position. Furthermore, the second utility module is disengaged from the first utility module by disengaging the at least one locking latch from the at least one locking latch stop position, such that engagement of the first and second utility modules into the locked position is provided by sliding the second utility module relative to the first utility module along a sliding path defined by at least one of the at least one locking rib and the at least one locking tongue.

[0113] 9. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 8, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially parallel to the sliding path.

[0114] 10. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 8, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially perpendicular to the sliding path and intersects the sliding path.

[0115] 11. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 8, wherein a single locking rib extends at the rear end of the recessed locking position and extends substantially perpendicular to the sliding path.

[0116] 12. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 8, wherein two locking ribs extend at the side edges of the recessed locking position and are configured to be substantially parallel to the sliding path.

[0117] 13. The connection arrangement according to embodiment 8, wherein each of the two locking ribs extends at the corresponding side edge of two adjacent recessed locking positions, the locking ribs being configured to be substantially parallel to the sliding path.

[0118] 14. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 8 to 13 further includes a release latch for disengaging the locking latch from the locking latch stop position, the release latch being disposed in front of the respective second utility module.

[0119] 15. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 8 to 14, wherein the at least one locking latch and the at least one locking latch stop position are provided at the front of the respective utility module.

[0120] 16. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 8 to 15, wherein the locking latch is configured to be displaced in a direction substantially orthogonal to the corresponding face of the utility module.

[0121] 17. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 8 to 16, wherein the locking latch is spring-biased and configured to protrude generally from the face of the respective first utility module or second utility module.

[0122] 18. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 8 to 17, wherein the locking latch is operable to be opened through an opening configured in the front wall of the respective utility module.

[0123] 19. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein one or both of the locking tongue and the locking rib are provided with inclined surfaces in a corresponding orientation along the sliding path.

[0124] 20. The connection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, wherein one or both of the front edge of the protrusion (or the protruding locking position) and the corresponding front edge of the recessed locking position are inclined to slide the second utility module into a locking position above the first utility module.

[0125] 21. The connection mechanism according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the first utility module is configured to detachably attach one or more second utility modules to the first utility module.

[0126] 22. A coupling mechanism for a utility component, the utility component comprising at least one first utility module and at least one second utility module, the coupling mechanism being disposed between the first utility module and the second utility module, and comprising at least one recessed locking position with a locking rib and at least one locking latch stop position at one of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module; and the other of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module comprising at least one protrusion having a locking tongue configured to mate with the at least one recessed locking position, and at least one locking latch configured to mate with the at least one locking latch stop position; and wherein at the locking position, the bottom surface is at least partially disposed above the top surface, and the at least one protruding tongue is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking rib, and the at least one locking latch is stopped by a corresponding at least one locking latch stop position, and further wherein disengaging the second utility module from the first utility module is facilitated by disengaging the at least one locking latch from the at least one locking latch stop position.

[0127] 23. A utility component comprising at least one first utility module and at least one second utility module, and including a coupling mechanism according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, the coupling mechanism being configured between the first utility module and the second utility module.

[0128] 24. A utility component comprising at least one first utility module and at least one second utility module, and including a coupling mechanism for easily and detachably attaching the first utility module and the second utility module, the coupling mechanism being disposed between the first utility module and the second utility module; the coupling mechanism including one or more recessed locking positions, each configured with a locking rib, and at least one locking latch stop position at one of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module; and the other of the top surface of the first utility module and the bottom surface of the second utility module including locking tongues respectively configured to mate with the one or more recessed locking positions. The first utility module has one or more protrusions and at least one locking latch configured in accordance with the at least one locking latch stop position; such that in the locked position, the bottom surface of the second utility module is at least partially positioned above the top surface of the first utility module, and the one or more protruding tongues are stopped by corresponding one or more locking ribs, and the at least one locking latch is stopped by corresponding at least one locking latch stop position, thereby preventing sliding displacement between the first utility module and the second utility module, and facilitating disengagement of the second utility module from the first utility module by disengaging the at least one locking latch from the at least one locking latch stop position.

[0129] 25. The utility component according to embodiment 24, wherein the first utility module and the second utility module are in a locked engagement when the one or more recessed locking positions and the one or more protrusions are arranged one after the other.

[0130] 26. The utility component according to embodiment 24 or 25, wherein the one or more recessed locking positions and the one or more locking latch stop positions are disposed on the top surface of the first utility module, and the one or more protrusions and the at least one locking latch are disposed on the bottom surface of the second utility module.

[0131] 27. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 26, wherein at least one second utility module is configured to snap-lock onto the first utility module.

[0132] 28. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 27, wherein engaging the first utility module and the second utility module into the locking position is provided by sliding the second utility module relative to the first utility module along a sliding path defined by at least one of the at least one locking rib and the at least one locking tongue.

[0133] 29. A practical component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 28, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially parallel to the sliding path.

[0134] 30. The practical component according to embodiment 29, wherein the at least one locking rib extends substantially perpendicular to the sliding path and intersects the sliding path.

[0135] 31. The practical component according to embodiment 29, wherein a single locking rib is located at the rear end of the recessed locking position and extends substantially perpendicular to the sliding path.

[0136] 32. The practical component according to embodiment 29, wherein two locking ribs extend at the side edges of the recessed locking position and are configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path.

[0137] 33. The practical component according to embodiment 29, wherein two locking ribs each extend at the corresponding side edge of two adjacent recessed locking positions, the locking ribs being configured to be generally parallel to the sliding path.

[0138] 34. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 33, wherein the top surface of the first utility module is interlocked with the bottom surface of the second utility module disposed above the top surface of the first utility module in a substantially completely overlapping relationship, or interlocked with the bottom surface of at least one second utility module that only partially overlaps the top surface of the first utility module.

[0139] 35. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 33, wherein the second utility module largely overlaps with the first utility module and is configured with a single release latch for displacing a plurality of locking latches hinged thereto.

[0140] 36. The utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 35 further includes a release latch for disengaging the locking latch from the locking latch stop position, the release latch being configurable at the front of the respective second utility module.

[0141] 37. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 36, wherein the locking latch is configured to be displaced in a direction substantially orthogonal to the corresponding face of the utility module.

[0142] 38. The utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 37, wherein the locking latch is spring-biased and configured to generally protrude from the face of the respective first utility module or second utility module.

[0143] 39. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 38, wherein two or more second utility modules can be mounted on top of a first utility module, each second utility module being independently and detachably attached to the first utility module.

[0144] 40. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 39, wherein at least one of the first utility module and the second utility module is provided with a sliding surface, the sliding surface facilitating the displacement of the corresponding second utility module relative to the first utility module and positioning it at the locked position.

[0145] 41. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 40, wherein one or more utility modules are container modules, and the utility component is a container component or a toolbox.

[0146] 42. The utility component according to embodiment 41, wherein the container module is partitioned and optionally configured with sub-containers and sub-compartments.

[0147] 43. The utility component according to embodiment 41 or 42, wherein the top surface of the container module is configured as a cover or functional component of the container module.

[0148] 44. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 41 to 43, wherein the container module is a motion container and is configured with an arrangement for moving the utility component.

[0149] 45. A practical component according to any one of embodiments 41 to 44, wherein the container module is configured to have a transport arrangement disposed on any one or more of its faces, the transport arrangement optionally being a transport handle.

[0150] 46. ​​A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 40, wherein one or more of the utility modules are soft-shell containers having at least one rigid surface portion.

[0151] 47. The utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 40, wherein the first utility module is a mobile carrier unit.

[0152] 48. The utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 47 further includes a locking mechanism for preventing unintentional separation of the modules when they are interlocked.

[0153] 49. A utility component according to any one of embodiments 24 to 48, wherein the first utility module is configured to allow at least two second utility modules to be detachably attached to the first utility module.

[0154] 50. A movable carrier unit comprising at least one carrier engagement surface adapted to be detachably interlocked with a first engagement surface of a utility module, the carrier engagement surface having (i) one or more recessed locking positions and at least one locking latch stop position, each recessed locking position being configured to engage with the first engagement surface of the utility module comprising at least one locking latch and one or more protrusions, each protrusion being configured to have a locking tongue, or (ii) at least one locking latch and one or more protrusions each configured to have a locking tongue for engaging with the first engagement surface of the utility module comprising one or more recessed locking positions and at least one locking latch stop position, each recessed locking position being configured to have a locking rib.

[0155] 51. The mobile carrier unit according to embodiment 50, wherein, once associated with the utility module, the locking tongue becomes aligned with the one or more recessed locking positions, and at least one locking latch becomes aligned with the at least one locking latch stop position.

[0156] 52. The mobile carrier unit according to embodiment 50 or 51 is configured to be detachably interlocked with one or more utility modules, each utility module including a first engagement surface.

[0157] 53. The mobile carrier unit according to any one of embodiments 50 to 52 further includes at least one of the manipulation arrangement and motion system.

[0158] 54. An assembly comprising a mobile carrier unit according to any one of embodiments 50 to 53, and at least one utility module having a first engagement surface, the mobile carrier unit having at least one carrier engagement surface, wherein the utility module is detachably interlocked with the mobile carrier unit by engaging the first engagement surface with the carrier engagement surface.

[0159] 55. The component according to embodiment 54, wherein the movable carrier unit and the at least one utility module are detachably interlocked with each other by a dovetail joint mechanism including a laterally projecting shoulder and a shoulder receiving recess, the laterally projecting shoulder being disposed on one of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the utility module, and the shoulder receiving recess being disposed on the other of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the utility module; wherein the laterally projecting shoulder is configured for sliding engagement with the shoulder receiving recess.

[0160] 56. The component according to embodiment 55, wherein one or both of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the corresponding utility module are provided with recesses, each recess accommodating a corresponding laterally projecting locking shoulder.

[0161] 57. The component according to embodiment 54, wherein the movable carrier unit and the at least one utility module are detachably interlocked with each other by an undercut engagement mechanism, the undercut engagement mechanism including a lateral protrusion disposed on one of the carrier engagement surface and a first engagement surface of the container unit and a receiving recess disposed on the other of the carrier engagement surface and the first engagement surface of the utility module; wherein the lateral protrusion is configured to engage with the receiving recess such that the interlocking engagement of the utility module and the carrier unit occurs by placing the first engagement surface of the utility module above the carrier engagement surface such that the first engagement element of the utility module is configured to move above a corresponding carrier engagement element of the carrier unit and then slide to achieve a sliding interlocking engagement between them.

[0162] 58. The component according to any one of embodiments 54 to 57 further includes a locking mechanism configured to prevent accidental disassembly of the utility module from the carrier unit.

[0163] 59. The component according to embodiment 58, wherein the locking mechanism includes a locking pin configured to snap out from one of the engagement surfaces into a designated recess on the other engagement surface.

[0164] 60. An interface connection module comprising at least one engagement surface adapted to be removably interlocked with a first engagement surface of a utility module, the interface connection module comprising the engagement surface having the following features: (i) one or more recessed locking positions and at least one locking latch stop position, each recessed locking position being configured with a locking rib, the one or more recessed locking positions and the at least one locking latch stop position being configured to engage with a first engagement surface of a utility module comprising at least one locking latch and one or more protrusions, each protrusion being configured with a locking tongue; or (ii) at least one locking latch and one or more protrusions for engaging with a first engagement surface of a utility module comprising one or more recessed locking positions and at least one locking latch stop position, each of the one or more protrusions being configured with a locking tongue, and each recessed locking position being configured with a locking rib.

[0165] 61. The interface connection module according to embodiment 60 is configured to be detachably or permanently attached to the surface of an object.

[0166] 62. The interface connection module according to embodiment 60 or 61 is a cargo interface module of a utility vehicle, the cargo interface module being configured to attach one or more utility modules to the utility vehicle.

[0167] 63. The interface module according to embodiment 60 or 61 is a surface mount for attaching a utility module.

[0168] 64. The interface module described in implementation scheme 60 or 61 is a tool mounting component or a tool bracket.

[0169] 65. The interface module according to implementation scheme 60 or 61 is a mounting component for installing a utility module onto a working belt.

[0170] 66. The interface module according to implementation scheme 60 or 61 is an interface installation module for connecting two utility modules to each other. Attached Figure Description

[0171] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can be implemented in practice, the implementation scheme will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0172] Figures 1 to 6 illustrate a first example of a locking mechanism, wherein:

[0173] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of a container component according to an example of this disclosure;

[0174] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A An exploded perspective view of the container components;

[0175] Figure 1C yes Figure 1B A front perspective view looking up from below;

[0176] Figure 1D yes Figure 1B A rear perspective view looking up from below;

[0177] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A The section cut along line AA in the middle;

[0178] Figure 2B yes Figure 1A The section along line BB;

[0179] Figure 2C yes Figure 1A The section cut along line CC;

[0180] Figures 3A to 3D It shows the continuous steps of locking engagement between the locking tongue of the second container and the corresponding locking rib of the first container;

[0181] Figures 4A to 4D It is a series of steps showing the locking engagement of the locking latch of the second container with the corresponding locking latch stop position of the first container;

[0182] Figures 5A to 5E The modularity of the container components according to this disclosure is schematically shown;

[0183] Figures 6A to 6G It is a variety of combinations of modular container components based on the examples of this disclosure.

[0184] Figures 7 through 12 illustrate another example of the carrier unit and locking mechanism, wherein:

[0185] Figure 7A This is a left perspective top view of a container carrier assembly according to an example of this disclosure, showing a container unit mounted on top of a carrier unit;

[0186] Figure 7B It is a top left perspective view of a second container unit mounted on top of a first container unit, which in turn is mounted on top of a carrier unit according to an example of this disclosure;

[0187] Figure 8A This is a top left perspective view of the carrier unit, showing the carrier mating surfaces in further detail;

[0188] Figure 8B and Figure 8C These are top and bottom perspective views of the carrier unit, showing the first mating surface of the container unit in further detail;

[0189] Figure 9A It is along Figure 7A The side profile of line FF in the image shows the unattached container unit and carrier unit;

[0190] Figure 9B It is along Figure 7A The side profile of line FF in the image shows the attached container unit and carrier unit;

[0191] Figure 9C yes Figure 9B A close-up view;

[0192] Figure 9D It is along Figure 7A The cross-sectional view of line FF in the figure shows the interlocking engagement between the carrier engagement element and the first engagement element of the container unit.

[0193] Figure 10A It is along Figure 7A The cross-sectional view along line DD in the figure shows the locking mechanism;

[0194] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A magnified image of the portion marked M in the image;

[0195] Figure 11A Container units of different sizes are shown that form components in an inclined direction;

[0196] Figure 11B The assembly configuration is shown to be vertically balanced relative to the ground;

[0197] Figure 12A A container assembly is shown, wherein the female connector includes two locking ribs that extend at the corresponding side edges of two adjacent recessed locking positions;

[0198] Figure 12B It is along Figure 12A The cross-section of line HH in the middle;

[0199] Figure 12C A utility module is shown separated from and flipped over to expose the mating coupling mechanism.

[0200] Figure 13 to Figure 24 These are different implementations and configurations of utility modules and utility components based on the examples in this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0201] Referring first to Figures 1 through 6, which relate to a first configuration of the connecting mechanism. For convenience, the utility module is illustrated as a container, and the utility components are correspondingly shown as toolboxes. However, it should be understood that, as discussed above and as will be illustrated below, the utility module can have any type, shape, or size.

[0202] First, note Figures 1 through 4, which illustrate a container assembly generally designated 20, comprising four containers 22, 24, 26, and 28 arranged in a three-level configuration, the levels being designated A, B, and C. In the example shown, the second-level containers 24 and 26 are half-sized and overlap with the space occupied by the first-level container 22 and the third-level container 28, where the first container 22 is, for example, a handheld tool container, while containers 24 through 28 are organizers or the like.

[0203] As used herein, the term "first container" refers to a container that supports at least one other container on its top surface, said at least one other container being referred to herein as "second container." Thus, it is to be understood that a second container comprising a container assembly with three or more levels of containers is used as the second container when referred to in relation to a first-level container, and as the first container when referred to in relation to a third-level container mounted above it. Accordingly, in the examples shown in Figures 1 and 2, container 22 is the first container, and containers 24 and 26 are the second containers, while containers 24 and 26 are used as the first containers when discussing a locking arrangement relative to the third-level container 28.

[0204] Each container is configured with a lid L that forms the top surface of the respective container, the lid being pivotally attached to and securely hinged to the respective container via a toggle locking latch 29. Each top surface (see Figure 1B The device is configured with several recessed locking positions 32, and it can be seen that at least two recessed locking positions are set one after the other along imaginary lines I, II and III (although they are not necessarily aligned).

[0205] Each of these recessed locking positions is sequentially provided with a laterally projecting locking rib 36 extending from the rear of the recessed locking position 32 toward the front of the container. The locking rib 36 has a flat top surface 38 that is substantially flush with the top surface of the corresponding cover L and an inclined bottom surface 40. The front portion 46 of the recessed locking position 32 is also inclined in the same direction as the bottom surface 40 (i.e., generally parallel to it).

[0206] In addition, the top surface of the container, i.e. the cover L, is provided with at least one locking latch stop position in the form of a recess 50, which is provided at the front of the corresponding top surface and is provided with an inclined rear wall portion 52 and a right-angled front wall portion 53.

[0207] The bottom surface 54 of each container 22, 24, 26 and 28 is provided with a plurality of protrusions 56 extending in accordance with the recessed locking position 32, and it can be seen that at least two protrusions 56 are arranged one after the other along imaginary lines I, II and III (although not necessarily aligned).

[0208] Each protrusion 56 is provided with a locking tongue 60, which protrudes laterally rearward and has an inclined surface 62 corresponding to the inclined surface 40 of the locking rib 36. Moreover, the front portion 66 of the protrusion 56 is inclined generally parallel to the inclined surface 62 of the locking tongue 60.

[0209] Crucially, at least two recessed locking positions 32 and at least two protrusions 56 are positioned one after the other (though not necessarily aligned), as illustrated by imaginary lines I, II and III (though not necessarily aligned).

[0210] A plunger-shaped locking latch 70 is provided at the front of each container. The locking latch 70 is configured to mate with a recess 50 and has an inclined rear wall portion 72 corresponding to the inclined wall portion of the recess 50 and a right-angled front wall portion 74. The locking latch 70 has an elongated finger engagement aperture 73. Figure 2A The finger engagement port 73 can be accessed through the port 75 that is aligned and formed at the front wall of the corresponding second container. The locking latch 70 is typically biased to protrude under the force of the coil spring 71, such that the locking latch 70 is axially displaceable between the protruding locked position and the temporary retracted position during transition to the locked position.

[0211] When it is necessary to detachably attach the second container above the first container, place the former on top of the latter. Figure 3A ), placing the protrusion 56 within the recessed locking position 32 ( Figure 3B The locking tongue 60 engages below the corresponding locking rib 36 and gradually stops via the corresponding locking rib 36, thereby achieving a stop. Figure 3C ), until it comes to a complete stop ( Figure 3D Simultaneously, as the locking tongue 60 is stopped by the locking rib 36, the locking latch 70 of the second container slides into the locking latch stop position (recess 50) and finally snaps into its locking engagement. Note ( Figures 4A to 4D ),first( Figure 4B and Figure 4C The locking latch 70 moves upward against the biasing force of the spring 71, and when the second container reaches the final locked position above the first container, the locking latch 70 is inserted into the stop position within the recess 50.

[0212] In the locked position, the second container is attached above the top surface of the first container, allowing the first and second containers to move as a single unit. Unlocking is achieved by moving the locking latch 70 upward against the biasing action of the spring 71, which easily causes the second container to be detached from the first container, thereby allowing the second container to be displaced relative to and removed from the first container.

[0213] As further seen in Figures 1-4, each of containers 22, 24, 26, and 28 is equipped with a tiltable transport handle 80 at its front for transporting the respective container or the entire container assembly 20. Additionally, some of the containers may be equipped with protective devices 90, similar to guardrails, at their corners.

[0214] Follow us now Figures 5A to 5E Figures 5A to 5E show examples of modularity of container components according to this disclosure. Figure 5A This is a top plan view of the first container 94, and Figures 5B to 5EA second container is shown stacked on top of the first container 94. Figure 5B In this context, the second container 96 is roughly the same size as the first container 94, meaning they occupy the same amount of space. Figure 5C In this configuration, the second container 98 is the same width as the first container 94, but less thick, and is positioned at the front of the first container. Figure 5D In this configuration, two second containers 99A and 99B are mounted above the first container 94 and substantially occupy the entire space of the first container 94, such that each of containers 99A and 99B can be independently attached to and detached from the first container 94, as illustrated above. Figure 5E In the middle, two second containers 100A and 100B are located above the first container 94, occupying the entire width, but with less thickness and extending from the front of the first container 94.

[0215] Now go to Figures 6A to 6G This shows several examples of container components, subcomponents, and their parts. Figure 6A The unassembled container assembly, uniformly designated 104, is shown and includes a base container 106, a box with a drawer module 108 comprising three drawers, a toolbox module 110, a partitioned storage module 112, and half-sized partitioned storage modules 114 (typically two of them). It should be noted that the base container is configured for movement and includes wheels 116 and a retractable handle 118 at its rear.

[0216] As from Figures 6B to 6D As can be understood, various container components are shown, and this arrangement allows virtually any module to form either the first or second container as defined above (although the base container 106 is more likely to be used as the first container).

[0217] Figure 6E and Figure 6F The box of drawer module 108 is shown, and the box of drawer module 108 is in Figure 6E Shown separately and installed in Figure 6F Above a similar drawer module 108. It should be understood that the drawer of each module can be locked in its closed position to prevent the drawer from opening spontaneously during module transport. Furthermore, each module 108 is configured with a pair of transport handles 115 located on its top sidewall portion to facilitate module transport.

[0218] exist Figure 6G The image shows a sub-component comprising a first container in the form of a toolbox module 110 and a second container in the form of a partitioned storage module 112 attached to the first container, wherein the lid 119 of the first container is open to allow access to its contents.

[0219] Focusing now on Figures 7 through 16, a third aspect of this disclosure is illustrated, namely, that the utility module is a movable carrier unit and includes at least one carrier engagement surface adapted to be detachably interlocked with a first engagement surface of the second utility module. For illustrative purposes only, the second utility module exemplified in the accompanying figures is in the form of a utility container. However, it is to be understood that utility modules can have any type, shape, or size, as discussed above, and will be illustrated below. Therefore, the term "container unit" as used in the following description refers to any type of utility module as discussed herein.

[0220] First pay attention Figure 7A , Figure 7A A container carrier assembly, generally designated 200, is shown, comprising a container unit 202 (utility module) mounted on top of a carrier unit 206. The carrier unit 206 is equipped with a retractable operating handle 210, a pair of rear wheels 208, and a set of horizontal stabilizing support legs 212 at its front. The carrier unit 206 and the container unit 202 are connected by their mating surface (i.e., the carrier mating surface 216 at the top surface of the carrier unit 206). Figure 8A (best visible in the middle) and the first mating surface 220 of the container unit (i.e., its bottom surface; in the best visible) and the container unit. Figure 8B and Figure 8C The container unit 202 is engaged in an interlocking manner (best visible in the middle). The container unit 202 is also configured with a second engagement surface 226 (i.e., the top surface of the container) simulating the carrier engagement surface 216. The container unit 202 further includes a locking mechanism 230 configured to stop within a corresponding recess 231 at the carrier engagement surface 216, thereby preventing displacement and separation of the engagement surfaces 216 and 220 once they are interlocked, as will be explained later.

[0221] exist Figure 8A The carrier engagement surface 216, seen in more detail, is a top perspective view of a carrier unit 206 having a retractable handle 210 in the retracted position. The carrier engagement surface 216 includes a plurality of carrier engagement elements 236 recessed from the surface, and the plurality of carrier engagement elements 236 are configured to interlockingly receive a first engagement element 240 of a corresponding container unit protruding from a first engagement surface (bottom surface) 220 of the container unit 202.

[0222] Each carrier engagement element 236 is a so-called female connector and has a recessed locking position configured with at least one locking rib, which extends above the recessed surface and along a sliding path and has an opening edge facing a first direction. As seen in the figures, this is typically constituted by a receiving recess 244 in the carrier engagement surface 216, the receiving recess being configured with a pair of facing locking ribs 248 forming the aforementioned recess. The locking ribs 248 extend generally parallel to the sliding path of the container unit 202 relative to the carrier unit 206, the path (in Figure 7A and Figure 10B (P is used to indicate this). It is also noted that the sidewall 250 of the recess 244 is inclined to allow the first engagement element 240 of the container unit mounted thereon to be guided to its interlocking position.

[0223] The corresponding connector configured at the container unit is a so-called male connector, which includes a protruding locking position that is aligned with the recessed locking position, and is configured with at least one locking tongue that extends along the engagement sliding path in a second direction opposite to the first direction and is configured to stop engagement in the space between the locking rib and the recessed surface. As can be seen, the engagement element 240 of a single container unit typically constitutes a downwardly projecting outwardly projecting portion 258 protruding from the bottom surface 220 of the container 202.

[0224] To lock the container 202 above the carrier unit 206, when placing the container 202 above the carrier engagement surface 216 of the carrier unit 206, the first engagement element 240 of the container unit must be installed into the recess 244, and then the container 202 is slid along the sliding path P (i.e. towards the locking rib 248) such that the engagement element 240 engages below the protruding rib / shoulder 248 and is thus stopped in the space between the locking rib and the recessed surface, as shown. Figure 9C As seen in the diagram, the interlocking engagement of the container (or any other utility module) can be facilitated at any location above the carrier unit 206 by a single male-female locking mechanism of the aforementioned type or by multiple such locking mechanisms.

[0225] The shape and size of the locking member are modular; regarding the recess 244 in the carrier engagement surface 216, it can be single or double in size (e.g., respectively). Figure 8A (as in 236 and 236A), therefore it is large enough to accommodate the first engagement element 240 of two container units or the first engagement elements of two adjacent container units. The locking / engaging and disengaging in this configuration is similar to a single locking module.

[0226] The engagement and locking mechanism is modular, which means that any first item can be easily and readily hinged to the surface of any second item, with the hinge being robust and secure (i.e., substantially stationary).

[0227] Further reference Figure 7B The diagram illustrates two containers 202A and 202B hinged to each other. This arrangement allows the bottom surface of the intermediate container 202A to engage with the top surface of the carrier unit 206, and similarly, the top surface of the intermediate container 202A to engage with the bottom surface of the top container 202B, as discussed above. This arrangement locks each stage in place via a locking mechanism 230, wherein each stage can be detached from the stage below upon release of the locking engagement of the respective locking mechanism 230.

[0228] Locking mechanism 230 Figure 10A and Figure 10B The locking mechanism is shown in more detail below. It includes a locking pin 231, typically biased by a spring 233, such that a tip 235 protrudes from the bottom surface of the container 202 (see also...). Figure 8B And is configured to snap into a corresponding recess 231 located on the engagement surface 216 of the carrier unit 206 (see also...) Figure 8A The locking pin 231 is slidable within a race on the side wall of the container and includes a finger-operated portion (inaccessible through an opening in the side wall of the container) indicated by 237 to disengage the locking pin against the biasing action of the spring 233, thereby facilitating the sliding of the container along path P to disengage from the carrier unit (or other container or utility module).

[0229] The carrier unit 206 is also equipped with a pair of stabilizing support members 264 at its bottom end. Figure 8A , Figure 11B The pair of stabilizing supports 264 are configured to support the carrier unit in an upright (i.e., vertical) position, with or without a container attached thereto, thereby preventing it from tipping over, particularly in the case of a container or any other utility module hinged thereto. According to one specific configuration, the stabilizing support 264 may be an extension of the retractable handle 210, whereby the stabilizing support only functions when the handle is fully retracted. However, in the illustration of FIG. 16, the utility component 253 is held in its upright position by means of the stabilizing support 264 and is further supported above the side 266 of the intermediate container 202A, which is substantially flush with the bottom surface of the stabilizing support 264.

[0230] Further reference Figures 12A to 12CThis illustrates a modification to the hinge between a first utility module (container 300 in a specific example) and a second utility module (two workpiece supports 304 in a specific example). Container 300 is generally similar to the container shown in the previous example, wherein the cover / cap 308 is configured with a plurality of female connecting members 310, each female connecting member having a recessed locking position and a pair of locking ribs extending above the recessed surface and along a sliding path. Opposite locking ribs 312A and 312B have opening edges facing a first direction (introduction direction).

[0231] In the example above, engagement with the corresponding male connector occurs near the single connecting element, specifically above the two engaging ribs 312A and 321B facing each other at the single recessed locking position. However, in Figures 12A-12C In the example, engagement of the workpiece support 304 occurs above two engagement ribs 312A and 312B at two adjacent recessed locking positions 308A and 308B. Accordingly, the male connectors of the two workpiece supports 304 are configured to actuate the two engagement ribs 312A and 312B via two separate (separate) male connectors 316A and 316B, each male connector configured to actuate one of the corresponding engagement ribs 312A and 312B. As previously discussed, actuation of the male protrusion 316 occurs by actuation within the space at the recessed locking position below the corresponding engagement rib. Despite the relatively narrow body structure of the workpiece supports 304, they are each configured with a locking mechanism 330 similar to the locking mechanism 230 discussed above.

[0232] Now turn to Figure 13. Figure 24 This document illustrates various examples of utility modules, utility components, and various configurations according to this disclosure.

[0233] Figure 13A A utility module assembly, generally designated 400, is shown, comprising a wheeled base container 402 supporting an intermediate container 404, which in turn supports a cooling box 406 and a power unit 408 arranged side-by-side above the intermediate container. At least the intermediate container 404 has a male coupling arrangement on its bottom surface for attachment to a cover of the base container, the cover having a corresponding female coupling arrangement. The cover of the intermediate container 404 has a similar female coupling arrangement and can therefore engage with one of utility modules 406 and 408, each utility module 406 and 408 having a corresponding male coupling arrangement on its bottom surface.

[0234] exist Figures 13B to 13D As seen in the image, the intermediate container 404 is fitted with a pivotal transport handle 418 hinged to its top sidewall. The transport handle has a thickness t, and this arrangement ensures that in the folded / collapsed position ( Figure 13B, 13D The transport handle 418 is received within peripheral grooves 422 and 424, with peripheral groove 422 extending above the top edge of the intermediate container 404 and peripheral groove 424 extending at the bottom edges of utility modules 408 and 406 (cooling box 406 and power unit 408), such that the handle 418 does not constitute an obstacle to mounting and interlocking a utility module to another utility module. It is also observed that at least some of the utility modules are configured with side handles 428, which serve as transport handles and buffers.

[0235] Figures 14A to 14C A first utility module in the form of a container 430 is shown, which supports two detachable workpiece supports 432 (attached as discussed earlier herein with reference to Figure 12). Figure 14C A practical module is shown configured with a working surface 436 in the form of a vise race 438, allowing the use of a vise 440 or other workshop tools. The workpiece support 432 is configured with a male coupling having a protruding locking position 444 for engagement with a corresponding female coupling.

[0236] exist Figure 15A and Figure 15B The diagram shows a back frame 450, a generally rigid platform with a carrying handle 451 and a pair of adjustable shoulder straps 452 and an adjustable waist strap 454 on one side. The other side of the back frame is configured with a universal utility mounting platform 458, which has multiple attachment positions 460. In the illustrated example, all attachment positions 460 are so-called female attachments (as discussed in detail above); however, it should be understood that attachment positions can also be male attachments or a combination of male and female attachments. According to another example (not shown), a male attachment can be configured on one side of the carrying platform, and a female attachment can be configured on the opposite side of the platform, where the user can choose to attach the platform to the shoulder strap system in a selected orientation.

[0237] exist Figure 16A The diagram shows a practical module (shown from the bottom) in the form of a wheeled transport unit 464, similar to that disclosed in conjunction with Figures 7 through 11. The transport unit 464 includes a rigid platform 466 with a female / male attachment arrangement according to the present disclosure fitted to its top surface, allowing any practical module according to the present disclosure to be detachably attached thereto. A telescopic operating handle 468 and a pair of wheels 466 are also provided. The transport unit may be equipped with a foldable support plate (not shown) that configures it as a trolley.

[0238] Figure 16BA utility component 276 is shown, comprising a base container 278 with wheels, a first intermediate container 280 mounted above the base container 278 (constituting the second level of the component), and a second intermediate container 282 mounted above the first intermediate container 280 (constituting the third level of the component 276). The base container 278 is interlocked with the first intermediate container 280. A fourth-level utility module container 284 is also present, mounted above the second intermediate container 282. The second intermediate container 282 occupies a wider space than the first intermediate container 280, which does not pose any difficulty in attaching the fourth-level utility module container to the second intermediate container 282. Furthermore, the top surface of the second intermediate container 282 has a large surface area suitable for hinged several fourth-level utility modules (only one shown) to it.

[0239] Figure 17 A carrier bag 280 is shown with flexible sidewalls 282 (made of fabric in the example shown), but it is equipped with a (one-piece or detachable) articulated platform base 284, which is made of a robust rigid material and configured with four male coupling positions 288 of the type disclosed above. The carrier bag 280 has a carrier strap 290 for hand or shoulder carrying.

[0240] Figure 18A A rigid coupling platform 300 is shown, which is configured with a plurality of female coupling positions (of the type disclosed herein) and is also configured with bolt holes 298 for fixing to any desired surface and a carrier bar 313.

[0241] The connection platform 300 can, for example, be attached to a truck bed 306. Figure 20 (), directly above the truck lathe or above the cargo container attached to the truck. For example... Figure 18B As shown, the connection platform 300 can be attached to a wall, and various utility modules can be hinged to the connection platform. For example, the utility modules may be a power tool charger 315, a wall-mounted sorting container 314, a handheld tool holder 318, etc. Figure 18C ), Tool connection adapter 320 ( Figure 18C )wait

[0242] exist Figure 19 The image shows a strap mount 319 configured as a female connector according to the present disclosure, wherein a tool 321 or pouch with a male connector can be detachably attached to the strap mount.

[0243] exist Figure 21The image shows a wall bracket 326 comprising four utility modules in the form of a hinged platform 328 (which can be mounted at different heights around a wall support 327), each utility module being configured to support any utility module according to the present disclosure and to attach any utility module according to the present disclosure thereto.

[0244] exist Figure 22 The diagram shows a movable workbench 340, which includes a wheeled base 342 supporting two supports 344. Each support 344 has four utility modules in the form of an articulated platform 346 (which can be mounted at different heights around a wall support 327). Each utility module is configured to support any utility module (e.g., container 348) according to the present disclosure and to attach any utility module (e.g., container 348) according to the present disclosure to it.

[0245] exist Figure 23 In this context, the practical module is in the form of a trolley 352 configured with wheels 354 and having a top surface configured with a female coupling array, as discussed.

[0246] exist Figure 24 The diagram illustrates a practical coupling platform 358 suitable for hinged to any desired item (e.g., bag, tool, etc.). The practical coupling platform has a male coupling position 360, simulating the coupling arrangement of this disclosure, configured on at least one face, making it suitable for hinged to a coupling system according to this disclosure.

Claims

1. A coupling mechanism configured for easily and detachably attaching a first utility module to a second utility module, the coupling mechanism comprising a male coupling located on the bottom surface of the second utility module and a female coupling located on the top surface of the first utility module. The female connector has at least one recessed locking position defined between two parallel sidewalls, a rear wall extending between the two sidewalls and having an open edge facing a first direction, each of the at least one recessed locking position being configured with two locking ribs extending above the bottom surface of the recessed locking position, parallel to the bottom surface and along a sliding path, the two sidewalls and the rear wall extending from the bottom surface, and each of the two locking ribs extending at the side edge of the recessed locking position from a portion of the rear wall and a portion of one of the two sidewalls and extending generally parallel to the sliding path and parallel to each other; The male connector has at least one protruding locking position, which is configured to mate with each of the at least one recessed locking positions and is provided with at least one locking tongue. The at least one locking tongue extends along the sliding path in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The locking tongue can be stopped below the two locking ribs within a space defined between the recessed surface and two locking ribs of one of the recessed locking positions. The engagement between the locking tongue and the two locking ribs is along the sliding path. The coupling mechanism further includes at least one locking latch stop position and at least one locking latch, the at least one locking latch stop position being disposed on the top surface of the first utility module and the at least one locking latch being disposed on the bottom surface of the second utility module, such that the at least one locking latch is axially displaceable between a protruding position and a retracted position, wherein in the protruding position the at least one locking latch interlocks with the at least one locking latch stop position to stop the first utility module relative to the second utility module and prevent sliding displacement along the sliding path, and in the retracted position allows the first utility module to slide relative to the second utility module along the sliding path.

2. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, For each of the recessed locking positions, each of the two locking ribs extends a length from the corresponding rear wall and a width from the corresponding side wall, wherein the length is greater than the width.

3. The connecting mechanism according to claim 2, wherein, The length is at least twice the width.

4. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, For each of the recessed locking positions, each of the two locking ribs extends from the rear wall toward one of the at least one locking latch stop positions.

5. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one locking latch stop position includes three locking latch stop positions, the three locking latch stop positions include a first side locking latch stop position, a second side locking latch stop position and a central locking latch stop position, wherein the central locking latch stop position is located at the center between the first side locking latch stop position and the second side locking latch stop position.

6. The connecting mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, The central locking latch stop position is located in the center between the sides of the top surface of the first utility module.

7. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, For each of the recessed locking positions, the sidewalls are inclined away from each other.

8. The connecting mechanism according to claim 7, wherein, For each of the recessed locking positions, each of the two locking ribs extends a width from the corresponding sidewall, and for most of the width of each of the two locking ribs, the corresponding rib extends above the sidewall rather than above the bottom surface of the corresponding recessed locking position.

9. The connecting mechanism according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the at least one protruding locking position includes two locking tongues extending from opposite sides of the respective protruding locking position.

10. The connecting mechanism according to claim 9, wherein, Each of the two locking ribs is configured to engage with one of the two locking tongues.

11. A container component, the container component comprising: The first container includes: A female connector extending from the top surface of the first container, the female connector including at least one recessed locking position, the at least one recessed locking position including two parallel sidewalls, a rear wall, and two ribs, the rear wall extending between the two sidewalls, the two sidewalls and the rear wall projecting from the bottom surface of the recessed locking position on the top surface, each of the ribs extending from the rear wall along at least a portion of one of the sidewalls above the bottom surface and parallel to the bottom surface to define a sliding path, the two ribs being parallel to each other; and A first latch recess is disposed on the top surface of the first container; and The second container includes: A male connector having at least one protruding locking position extending from the bottom surface of the second container, the at least one protruding locking position including a tongue offset from the bottom surface of the second container and extending in a second direction opposite to a first direction, the tongue of the second container being capable of engaging the two ribs of the first container; and A latch, coupled to the second container, is axially positionable between a locked position and a retracted position, such that in the locked position, the latch is spring-biased downward to protrude from the bottom surface of the second container to engage with and interlock with the latch recess, and prevents the first and second containers from disengaging when the tongue and rib engage; in the retracted position, allows sliding displacement of the second container relative to the first container; the latch has a finger engagement orifice accessible through an opening formed on the front wall of the second container; wherein the latch is spring-biased downward to allow axial displacement between the locked position and the retracted position during transition to the locked position.

12. The container assembly of claim 11, wherein, For each of the at least one recessed locking position, each of the two locking ribs extends a length from the rear wall and a width from the corresponding side wall, wherein the length is greater than the width.

13. The container assembly of claim 12, wherein, The length is at least twice the width.

14. The container assembly of claim 11, wherein, For one or more of the at least one recessed locking positions, the rib extends from the rear wall toward the first latch recess.

15. The container assembly of claim 11, comprising a second latch recess disposed on the top surface of the first container and a third latch recess disposed on the top surface of the first container, wherein the second latch recess is located centrally between the first latch recess and the third latch recess.

16. The container assembly of claim 15, wherein, The second latch recess is located in the center between the sides of the top surface of the first container.

17. The container assembly of claim 11, wherein, For each of the at least one recessed locking position, the sidewalls are inclined away from each other.

18. The container assembly of claim 17, wherein, For each of the at least one recessed locking position, each of the two locking ribs extends a width from the corresponding sidewall, and wherein for most of the width of each of the two locking ribs, the corresponding rib extends above the sidewall rather than above the bottom surface of the corresponding recessed locking position.

19. The container assembly of claim 11, wherein, Each of the at least one protruding locking position includes two locking tongues extending from opposite sides of the respective protruding locking position.

20. The container assembly of claim 19, wherein, Each of the two locking ribs is configured to engage with one of the two locking tongues.

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