Stackable Case Coupling via Integrated Conical Bridges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stackable case systems face issues with weak coupling strength, breakage, wear, and operational difficulties due to separate locking components, which can become tight and difficult to use at low temperatures, and often result in a loose and non-compact connection with an 'accordion effect'.

Innovation Solution

The integration of conical catch flanges on connecting bridges that are molded into the case structure, allowing for quick and secure coupling with a transport lock and security lock, eliminating loose components and providing robust stability and ease of operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate locking components (snaplocks and locking clips) are used for coupling cases, then the coupling mechanism can be operated manually, but the components become tight and difficult to operate at low temperatures and can break or fall off

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of coupling operationVSAvoidreliability of locking components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is merged into the connecting bridge as an integrated component. The connecting bridge includes a locking element that is formed as one piece with the bridge structure itself, eliminating separate locking components that can break or fall off. This integrated design ensures the locking mechanism remains reliable even in extreme temperatures while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Strength

If multiple separate locking components are used per case, then the coupling can be secured, but the number of components increases leading to more potential points of failure and operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoupling strengthVSAvoidnumber of locking components

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting bridge is segmented into functional zones: a coupling zone with interlocking protrusions and recesses for primary connection, and an integrated locking zone with a locking element for security. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function efficiently while reducing the total number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated locking element within the connecting bridge. The locking element works in conjunction with the coupling structure to provide both connection and security functions, reducing the number of separate locking components from multiple clips/snaps to a single integrated mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Stability of the object's composition

If conventional coupling systems are used, then cases can be stacked, but the connection is not tight and compact leaving space between cases (accordion effect)

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestacking stabilityVSAvoidcompactness of connection

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting bridge incorporates conical surfaces in its locking mechanism. The conical shape allows for self-centering and tight engagement between stacked cases, eliminating gaps and preventing the accordion effect. The conical geometry ensures that cases are pulled tightly together when locked, providing both compactness and stacking stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

4Reliability

If locking components are made robust to prevent breakage, then reliability improves, but the components become more difficult to operate manually

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedurability of locking componentsVSAvoidease of manual operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking element is designed with dynamic characteristics that change during operation. During engagement, the locking element flexes or deforms elastically to accommodate misalignment and then locks firmly in the engaged position. This dynamic behavior allows easy manual operation during coupling while providing robust, break-resistant locking once engaged.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2346741B1Storage arrangement consisting of two parts such as two cases or one case and one lid

Publication Date: 2015.04.08 TTS TOOLTECHNIC SYST

Figure 1
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Figure 5~7

AI summary

u / The storage facility for coupling of at least one box and at least one lid is comprised of coupling units as shown in Fig. 2, bottom bridge 2 on the top box and top bridge 3 on the lower box. These must be tightly engaged via the conic flanges 14 + 38 and subsequently locked in the gear via transport lock 7. The primary objective of the invention is to provide a new and functional storage system for tools, equipment and minor parts, which makes it easy to locate what you are looking for and where the objects are easy and fast accessible. Furthermore, it is possible to produce the invention in an inexpensive way and still make it robust and easy to assemble as well as disassemble in only a few seconds.