Angled Magnetic Connector for Flat-Opening Box File Corners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing box files and ring binders suffer from structural weaknesses at the corners between folding walls, leading to movement and damage when subjected to forces, and they cannot be laid flat for easy access to contents.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic connector with a male and female part, featuring oblique angled metal surfaces and protrusions/slots, utilizing a sandwich magnet structure with ferromagnetic plates to provide a strong, angled connection between box file walls, preventing sheering movement and allowing the box to be laid flat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If simple fixings like hook and loop fasteners or metal poppers are used at the corners, then the box can be kept closed, but the structural integrity is weak and movement occurs under force
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into a male part and a female part, each with distinct geometric features (protrusion and slot) that work together to provide both positioning and structural strength, resolving the contradiction between simple assembly and reliable connection
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses oblique angled surfaces at 45 degrees that create a three-dimensional interlocking geometry, transforming a simple two-point connection into a multi-faceted structural joint that resists movement while maintaining ease of assembly
2Ease of operation
If the box file is designed with freely rotatable walls for easy access, then the box can be laid flat, but the corners become weak points subject to sheering forces
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attraction is engaged before the walls are fully positioned, pulling the male and female connectors together and pre-loading the joint to resist subsequent sheering forces from rotatable wall movement
Solution Approach 2:
The connector combines magnetic attraction (invisible force field) with geometric interlocking (physical structure), creating a composite connection system that provides both ease of assembly and strength against operational forces
3Reliability
If magnetic attraction is used to connect the walls, then strong connection is achieved, but the connector geometry must be precisely controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the male and female parts during assembly, automatically guiding them into alignment and compensating for minor manufacturing tolerances in the metal surfaces
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The magnetic connector ensures robust structural integrity and allows the box file to be opened flat for easy access, while maintaining stability when stored or on a shelf.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of said first metal portion and said second metal portion is magnetic and attracts the other
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic connector comprising a male part and a female part, in which said male part comprises a first side and a second side extending from said first side at an oblique angle thereto, in which said male part comprises a first metal portion comprising a first metal surface on said second side, in which said second side comprises a protrusion proud of said first metal surface, in which said female part comprises a third side and a fourth side extending from said third side at an oblique angle thereto, in which said female part comprises a second metal portion comprising a second metal surface on said fourth side, in which said fourth side comprises a slot for receiving said protrusion, in which at least one of said first metal portion and said second metal portion is magnetic and attracts the other.