Dissimilar-Material Case Assembly Using Connector and Barb Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Attaching dissimilar materials during the manufacturing of cases can present issues due to their inherent properties, such as rigidity and pliability, which affect the structural integrity and ease of assembly.
Innovation Solution
A case design incorporating a first container made of rigid material with a moveable door and a skirt, connected to a second container made of a more pliable material via a connector where the pliable material is folded over the connector and attached to itself, using barbs and openings for a robust mechanical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dissimilar materials are attached together during manufacturing, then the case can accommodate different material properties (rigidity and pliability), but the structural integrity and ease of assembly deteriorate due to the inherent property differences
Solution Approach 1:
A connector component serves as an intermediary element between the rigid first container and the pliable second container. The connector includes a first portion that attaches to the rigid container and a second portion that attaches to the pliable container, mediating the connection between dissimilar materials and ensuring structural integrity despite material property differences
Solution Approach 2:
The case is segmented into distinct components (first container, second container, and connector) that can be manufactured separately from different materials and then assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific material properties while maintaining overall structural integrity through the connector
2Adaptability or versatility
If dissimilar materials are attached together during manufacturing, then the case can accommodate different material properties (rigidity and pliability), but the ease of assembly deteriorates due to the inherent property differences
Solution Approach 1:
The connector acts as a pre-manufactured intermediary component that simplifies assembly by providing standardized attachment interfaces for both rigid and pliable materials, eliminating the need for complex joining processes between dissimilar materials
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-manufactured with attachment features (such as adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or integrated structures) already in place, allowing for straightforward assembly with both rigid and pliable containers without requiring complex real-time manufacturing operations
Data Source
AI summary
A case includes a first container, a second container, and a connector. The first container includes a first moveable door and a skirt. The first moveable door moves to selectively provide access to a first storage compartment in the first container. The skirt is made from a first material. The second container is made from a second material that is more pliable than the first material. The second container defines a second storage compartment. The second material is folded over the connector and connected with itself to attach the connector with the second container. An opening is provided in the skirt or in the connector. A barb protrudes from the skirt or from the connector. The barb is received in the opening to connect the connector and the second container with the first container.