Foldable Box With Internal Magnet Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable boxes are complex in construction and operation, requiring excessive panels, joints, and externally attached fastening means, which makes them difficult to unfold and stack efficiently, and they often deteriorate over time, limiting single-handed use and internal locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A foldable box design comprising two subassemblies of panels with predefined folds and connections, using magnets and an iron piece for internal locking, allowing for effortless folding and unfolding with minimal components, enabling single-handed operation and flat stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If externally attached fastening means are used to lock panels, then the box can be folded and locked, but the construction becomes complex and the flat configuration is not retained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes externally attached fastening means (hinges, covers, hooks, loops, zips) and extracts only the essential locking function, implementing it internally through a simplified panel interaction mechanism that locks the box flat without external components
Solution Approach 2:
The box structure itself provides the locking mechanism through its panel design, where the panels inherently lock each other in the flat configuration without requiring separate fastening components. The structure serves its own fastening function
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple panels and joints are used to construct the box, then the box can be folded and unfolded, but the operation becomes time consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The box is divided into essential panel segments (front, back, side panels) that are minimally connected through folds, allowing folding functionality while reducing the number of components and joints compared to traditional multi-panel constructions
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into the panel structure itself - the panels provide both the enclosure walls and the folding hinges through integrated fold lines, eliminating separate joint components and simplifying the unfolding operation to a single action
3Reliability
If externally located fastening means are used, then the panels can be locked, but the box cannot be stacked flat efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
External fastening components that protrude from the box surface are removed, allowing the box to lie completely flat when closed. The locking mechanism is internalized within the panel structure, enabling efficient stacking without external obstacles
4Reliability
If traditional locking means are attached individually to panel sections, then the box can be locked, but the locking ability deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged into the inherent structural geometry of the panel assembly rather than being implemented through separate attached components. This integration eliminates wear points associated with individual fasteners and creates a durable, maintenance-free locking system
Solution Approach 2:
The panel structure itself provides the locking mechanism through its geometric configuration, eliminating the need for separate locking components that can deteriorate. The structure locks itself through its own form
5Ease of operation
If the box structure is designed for two-handed operation, then the folding mechanism can be operated, but single-handed use is not possible especially for persons with physical limitations
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple operational actions (unfolding, opening, locking) are merged into a single integrated motion sequence that can be initiated and completed with one hand. The panel geometry is designed so that lifting and spreading actions naturally progress through the unfolding sequence without requiring separate manual interventions
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 design simplifies the construction and operation of foldable boxes by using internal magnets and an iron piece for locking, ensuring easy conversion between flat and three-dimensional configurations, enhancing durability and usability, particularly for single-handed use and efficient stacking.
Implementation Method 1
The box includes a combination of magnets and an iron piece for locking it flat, as well as, in three dimensional configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
A reusable foldable box is disclosed that has a first flat configuration and a second three dimensional configuration. The box consists of a first set and a set of panels that are assembled to form the foldable box. The first set of panels includes at least six panels that are foldably coupled in a predefined sequence. The first set includes a top panel, bottom panel, a pair of side panels, a lip panel and a securing panel. The first set of panels forms a single piece construction to which the side panels of the second set of panels are coupled with triangular inward connectors.