Articulating Multi-Adjustable Divider System for Luggage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current luggage and camera bags fail to securely accommodate a wide range of shapes and objects, lack adjustable interior support mechanisms, and generate noise when using Velcro, making them unsuitable for applications like wildlife photography.

Innovation Solution

An articulating insert with adjustable grooves and retaining members, such as elastic devices, that can be positioned and oriented to securely hold various items, providing impact absorption and non-slip properties, and can be easily removed and repositioned within different luggage devices without using Velcro.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If Velcro is used to secure items in luggage, then items are held in place, but significant noise is generated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveitem stabilityVSAvoidnoise
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes Velcro from the system entirely, extracting the noise-generating component while preserving the securing function through alternative means (articulating divider with retaining members at discrete locations). This directly resolves the contradiction by eliminating the harmful noise factor while maintaining item stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the Velcro mechanical fastening system with a different mechanical system involving an articulating divider panel with retaining members that engage with the bag structure. This substitution eliminates the noise-generating friction mechanism of Velcro while providing secure item retention through a quieter mechanical engagement system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If fixed interior support mechanisms are used, then items are protected, but adaptability to various shapes and objects is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveprotectionVSAvoidshape accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a dynamic articulating divider panel that can rotate and adjust between different positions and orientations. This dynamic structure allows the divider to adapt to various item shapes and sizes while maintaining reliable protection, directly resolving the contradiction between fixed protection and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The divider system is segmented into multiple panels connected by joints, allowing each segment to move independently. This segmentation enables the structure to conform to irregular shapes and accommodate diverse objects while maintaining structural integrity and protective function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable divider systems are implemented, then versatility increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses flexible articulating panels that can bend and rotate at joints, creating a versatile configuration system without requiring complex mechanical components. The flexibility of the panels themselves provides the adjustment capability, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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 articulating insert securely organizes and protects fragile items like cameras and video equipment, accommodating irregular shapes, minimizing noise, and allowing for quick adjustment and reconfiguration, enhancing protection and usability in various applications.

Implementation Method 1

retaining members, such as elastic devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

providing impact absorption

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpact absorption: Impact Force

Implementation Method 3

non-slip properties

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS9615642B2Articulating multi-adjustable divider system
Publication Date: 2017.04.11 THULE ORG SOLUTIONS
  • US9615642B2 patent drawing
  • US9615642B2 patent drawing
  • US9615642B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus adapted for use within a luggage item is described which comprises features for conforming to and surrounding one or more objects of various sizes and shapes. The apparatus, which may be removable, further includes features for protecting items from damage due to impact, abrasion, contamination, and other undesired effects.