Collapsible Box Anchoring Mechanism for Rapid Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible plastic boxes require cumbersome operation to fold and unfold, often necessitating individual actuation of multiple anchoring mechanisms, which complicates quick assembly and disassembly, especially when trying to minimize volume for storage and transport.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible box design featuring a central control piece with rotary bodies and elastic portions that allows simultaneous actuation of anchoring devices on the front ends, enabling the side walls to fold inward and reduce volume efficiently, with a unique hinged connection between the side walls and bottom for secure assembly and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual anchoring mechanisms are used on each front end, then the box can be securely assembled, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple anchoring mechanisms into a single integrated anchoring device located on each front end. This device simultaneously controls the anchoring of multiple side walls through a unified structure that includes a control piece, connecting elements, and anchoring elements working together as one system rather than separate mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring device on each front end serves multiple functions: it anchors both major side walls and minor side walls, controls folding and unfolding operations, and provides structural support. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate anchoring mechanisms for different walls.
2Reliability
If multiple separate anchoring devices are used, then each side wall can be independently secured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple anchoring functions into a single device structure on each front end, combining control pieces, connecting elements, and anchoring elements into one unified mechanism that manages all side wall anchoring operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring device is segmented into functional components (control piece, connecting elements, anchoring elements) that work together but can be analyzed and manufactured separately, allowing for simplified production while maintaining integrated functionality.
3Reliability
If traditional anchoring mechanisms are used, then the box can be assembled securely, but the folding and unfolding speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring elements are pre-positioned on the side walls with receiving elements ready to engage. When the control piece is actuated, the anchoring action occurs immediately without requiring sequential adjustment or manual positioning, enabling rapid assembly and disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage through the movement of the control piece. The elastic elements and geometric constraints cause the anchoring elements to self-position and self-lock without requiring additional manual intervention or complex control mechanisms.
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
Facilitates rapid and secure folding and unfolding of the box, allowing for significant volume reduction, enhancing ease of storage and transport while maintaining structural integrity and security during use.
Implementation Method 1
two pairs of thin elastic portions (6) about 6 that connect the front ends of the central piece (1) to the rotary bodies (5)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a box including, in principle, a plastic structure with a rectangular base, two ends, and two sides which are pivotably coupled to said base. The ends include centred parts combined with latches, which in one position anchor the sides and ends, while in another position said connection between the ends and the sides is released in order to collapse said elements and thus achieve a collapsed position. The invention is characterised in that the box includes an anchor device consisting of a series of rotary bodies (5) that connect the bolts of the lock (4) to the centred part (1) via two pairs of resilient parts (6) and (7) which, in the inoperative position thereof, hold the bolts of the lock (4) outwards, attaching the ends (2) and the sides (9), and when the central part (1) is moved upward, the latches thus release the ends and the sides.