Collapsible Container Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible container locking devices require both hands to operate and often struggle with simultaneous locking of adjacent side walls, are complex in structure, and costly to manufacture due to the use of pivot pins and multiple components.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a bolt and counter-locking elements that allows for straight-line translational movement, utilizing a deflection mechanism with hinges and a spring element to facilitate ergonomic operation and simultaneous locking of opposite side walls without pivot pins, made from cost-effective materials like polypropylene.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a one-piece, bow-shaped actuating element is used for each side wall, then the locking element can be moved parallel to the side wall, but simultaneous locking with both adjacent side walls cannot always be achieved and the actuator becomes too long impairing maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the movement dimension of the locking element from parallel to the side wall to perpendicular to the side wall. The actuating element moves perpendicular to the first side wall, and through the deflection mechanism, this movement is converted to move the locking element perpendicular to the side wall surface, achieving compact actuator design while ensuring simultaneous locking of both adjacent side walls.
2Reliability
If linear translational movement of the actuator is converted into rotary or pivoting movement of the locking element using pivot pins, then the locking element can be positioned correctly, but the design becomes complex and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the pivot pin from the system. Instead of using a pivot pin to convert linear movement to rotary movement, the patent uses a deflection mechanism consisting of a deflection section with hinges that can be integrally formed with the actuating element, significantly simplifying the structure while maintaining reliable locking position accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the actuating element and locking element into a single integrally formed component. The deflection mechanism is formed as one piece with the actuating element, eliminating the need for separate pivot pins and reducing the number of parts, which simplifies manufacturing and reduces costs while maintaining functional reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the actuating element is moved parallel to the side wall, then the locking element can be actuated, but both hands are required to fold one side wall and the user cannot fold both opposite side walls simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the actuation direction from parallel to the side wall to perpendicular to the side wall. This dimensional change allows the actuating element to be positioned centrally and actuate both locking elements simultaneously, enabling the user to fold both opposite side walls at the same time with one hand, thereby reducing folding time and improving operational efficiency.
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
Enables easy, ergonomic, and reliable operation of collapsible containers with simultaneous locking of both side walls, reducing manufacturing costs and susceptibility to dirt, suitable for long-term use and easy cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
the deflection mechanism comprises at least one spring element, for example, a plastic spring, a double plastic spring, or a corrugated plastic spring
Implementation Method 2
The actuating element is preferably articulated to the detent element by means of at least two hinges
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
The invention relates to a locking device (4) for a container (2) with a bottom wall and four hinged side walls (6, 8) which can be locked together in an upright position, wherein two opposing first side walls (6) have locking elements (14) and the two further opposing second side walls (8) have counter-locking elements (24), wherein in a closed position of the locking device (4) locking elements (14) of a first side wall (6) interact with counter-locking elements (24) of an adjacent second side wall (8), wherein the locking device (4) has an actuating element (12) which is coupled to a locking element (14) in such a way as to move the locking element (14) from the closed position to an unlocked position, wherein the actuating element (12) can be actuated with a stroke movement parallel to the first side wall (6).It is provided that the actuating element (12) and the locking element (14) are movable in a linear translational manner, wherein the locking device (4) has a deflection mechanism (16) so that the locking element (14) is movable in a first direction between the closed position and the unlocked position, which includes an angle other than 0° with a second direction of the stroke movement of the actuating element (12).