Spring-Biased Container Locking for Secure Tool-Less Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers lack adequate security to prevent access to or contamination of contents during transit, and are difficult to assemble with user-friendly methods for connecting components.
Innovation Solution
A container locking mechanism featuring a fixed member, a moveable locking member, and a biasing member that urges the locking member towards a locked configuration, allowing secure attachment of the lid or base to the body without requiring lubrication and enabling tool-less assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to provide security, then security against accidental disassembly is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the biasing member that automatically urges the locking member into the locked configuration when the lid or base is positioned relative to the body, eliminating the need for external actuation or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional components: the fixed member mounted on the body, the moveable locking member, and the biasing member, allowing each component to perform its specific function independently and simplifying the overall design
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent contamination, then protection against contamination is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member automatically actuates the locking mechanism during the assembly process, eliminating the need for manual operation or specialized tools to secure the lid or base, thereby maintaining ease of assembly while providing protection against contamination
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure components, then reliability is improved, but maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member provides continuous automatic securing of the locking member in the locked configuration, eliminating wear on manual operation components and reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining reliable secure attachment of components
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses simple, easily replaceable components that can be quickly replaced if worn or damaged, reducing maintenance complexity and costs
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
The mechanism provides enhanced security against accidental disassembly and contamination, facilitates easy assembly, and is reusable, reducing spill risks and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to urge the locking member towards the locked configuration
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a container locking mechanism for a container. The locking mechanism comprises a fixed member, a locking member and a biasing member. The fixed member is providable on a body of the container. The locking member is moveable about the fixed member between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The biasing member is configured to urge the locking member towards the locked configuration.