Backpack Closure Locking Mechanism for Easy One-Hand Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking devices for containers like knapsacks or backpacks require complex operations to unlock, often requiring two fingers to release the lock, which can lead to wear and tear, and lack simplicity in operation.

Innovation Solution

The locking device incorporates thrust elements with spring-loaded hook-like projections that can be easily released by moving them closer with two fingers or by actuating a pivoted handle with one finger, utilizing magnetic elements for assistance and additional locking slides for enhanced stability and longevity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional locking mechanisms are used requiring two fingers to release, then secure locking is achieved, but operation complexity increases and wear occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure lockingVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent components: a first locking element with a first hook-like projection and a second locking element with a second hook-like projection. Each element can be independently actuated by separate finger presses, allowing the user to release locks sequentially rather than requiring simultaneous complex manipulation of a single mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking elements incorporate spring-loaded hook-like projections that dynamically adjust their engagement state. The springs allow the hooks to flex during engagement and disengagement, enabling smooth transitions between locked and unlocked states while reducing mechanical stress and wear on the components during repeated operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If simple release mechanisms are used, then ease of operation improves, but locking stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of releaseVSAvoidlocking stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The locking system uses multiple independent locking elements instead of a single complex mechanism. Each element provides a distinct locking action that can be easily released by pressing corresponding actuating elements, maintaining simplicity while collectively providing enhanced stability through redundant locking points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple locking elements with individual spring mechanisms into a unified locking system. The first and second locking elements work together synergistically, with each contributing to the overall stability while maintaining independent ease of operation through their respective actuating elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If magnetic elements are added for feeding assistance, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeeding assistanceVSAvoidcomponent count
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Magnetic elements are introduced as intermediary components between the locking elements and the container closure. These magnets provide an invisible force field that assists in guiding and aligning the closure with the locking elements during the feeding process, eliminating the need for complex mechanical guides or alignment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces potential complex mechanical alignment systems with magnetic fields for guiding the closure into position. The magnetic attraction force automatically draws the closure components toward the locking elements, providing self-alignment without requiring精密 mechanical structures or manual adjustment mechanisms.

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

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

This design allows for easy and intuitive unlocking with either two fingers or one finger, significantly increasing the number of operations without wear, ensuring a long service life and secure locking, while also simplifying the feeding process with magnetic assistance and additional locking mechanisms for enhanced durability.

Implementation Method 1

it is also known in the prior art to arrange magnets or ferromagnetic elements in the receiving part and in the holding part, which attract each other and thus facilitate the feeding of the holding part into the receiving part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

an actuating handle that can be pivoted relative to the base plate is arranged as a further actuating means, which is held in the locked position against the force of a second spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4176760B1Closing device for a container
Publication Date: 2024.06.19 SUDHAUS GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4176760B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4176760B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4176760B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a locking device for a container such as a satchel or a backpack, comprising at least a receiving part which is arranged and attached to an outer wall of the container, which has a trough-like receiving and fastening area, and a holding part which is arranged and attached to a lid part of the container which is pivotable or pivoted relative to the outer wall, wherein the invention also includes a container, in particular a backpack or a satchel with a locking device, wherein the operation of the locking device with regard to releasing the locking mechanism, i.e., opening the lid part of the container, is simplified compared to solutions known in the prior art.