Chain Storage Case with Protrusions to Prevent Tangling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chains, especially those used in high-stress applications like chainsaws or power transmission, tend to become tangled when not contained, making them unsuitable for immediate use due to the time-consuming process of untangling, which can be exacerbated by limited dexterity or space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A chain storage case with a hingedly coupled upper and lower case portion, featuring protrusions and latches that securely contain chains in an untangled state, preventing tangling and allowing easy access, and designed to accommodate various chain sizes and types, with options for nesting and hanging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If chains are stored without containment, then storage space is saved and access is quick, but chains become tangled and require time-consuming untangling
Solution Approach 1:
The storage case is divided into multiple compartments, each capable of holding individual chains separately. This segmentation prevents chains from tangling with each other while maintaining an organized structure that allows quick access without extensive untangling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage case employs a nested structure where multiple chains can be stored within a single case, with each chain contained in its own compartment. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization while preventing tangling between chains.
2Reliability
If chains are stored in a simple container, then device complexity is low and manufacturing is easy, but chains become tangled and reliability of immediate use decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage case is designed to maintain chains in a pre-organized, untangled state before use. By providing individual compartments that keep chains separated and orderly, the system ensures chains are ready for immediate use without requiring preliminary untangling actions.
Solution Approach 2:
Each compartment within the storage case is designed with specific local characteristics, such as individual walls and spacing, that prevent tangling. This local quality control ensures that each chain maintains its integrity and readiness independently within its designated space.
3Reliability
If chains are stored in individual containers, then tangling is prevented and readiness is improved, but storage space efficiency and shipping cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual chain compartments are merged into a single integrated storage case. This combining approach allows each chain to be individually protected against tangling while the overall case provides space-efficient storage and shipping compared to multiple separate containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage case uses a nested compartment design where multiple chains are stored within a single case structure. This nesting maximizes space utilization by arranging chains vertically or in layers, reducing the overall volume required compared to separate containers for each chain.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage case for storing chains includes upper and lower case portions. The lower case portion includes a base wall, a sidewall extending upwardly from and surrounding the base wall to define an elongate cavity, and a plurality of protrusions extending upwardly from the base wall within the elongate cavity. The lower case portion is configured to contain a chain in an expanded state in which the chain is constrained at first and second chain ends by respective first and second protrusions. The upper case portion is movable relative to the lower case portion between a closed position and an open position.