Folding Box Asymmetric Axle Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible boxes suffer from instability and unreliable locking mechanisms, which can lead to accidental collapse and loss of contents, and existing solutions are either complex or too expensive for widespread use.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible box design featuring non-circular, rotatable axle ends with cross-sections such as rectangular with rounded corners, S-shaped, oval, or elliptical, which lock and unlock in specific rotational positions, combined with a spring-activated locking mechanism for enhanced stability and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If simple locking mechanisms are used in collapsible boxes, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but the box suffers from instability and can collapse accidentally
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element features an asymmetric cross-section (rectangular with rounded corners, S-shaped, oval, or elliptical) that rotates within a circular bearing. This asymmetric geometry creates distinct locked and unlocked positions, preventing accidental collapse while maintaining simple construction. The asymmetric shape ensures the locking element can only occupy specific orientations, providing reliable locking without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism uses a rotatable asymmetric locking element that transitions between locked and unlocked states through rotation. This dynamic element, combined with the spring-activated mechanism, allows the box to be securely locked during transport and easily unlocked when needed, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and reliable stability.
2Ease of operation
If displaceable locking elements are used, then the box can be locked and unlocked, but the bearing becomes loose over time and the elements can bend
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of displaceable locking elements that slide along a bearing, the invention uses a rotatable asymmetric locking element within a circular bearing. This inverts the conventional approach: rather than linear displacement, the locking element rotates to achieve locked and unlocked positions. This rotation prevents bending stresses and maintains consistent bearing contact, eliminating the reliability issues of displaceable elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing is designed as a circular (spheroidal) component that receives the asymmetric locking element. This curved geometry allows smooth rotation of the locking element while maintaining consistent contact points, preventing the bearing from becoming loose over time and ensuring reliable operation.
3Reliability
If multiple bearing points are used for displaceable locking elements, then locking function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple bearing points into a single circular bearing that receives the rotatable asymmetric locking element. This single circular bearing replaces what would traditionally require multiple discrete bearing points for displaceable elements, simplifying the structure while maintaining reliable locking function through the rotation mechanism.
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 provides improved protection against unintentional collapse, reduces the complexity of locking elements, and allows for robust and reliable operation with fewer bearing points, resulting in a more stable and cost-effective solution compared to existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring arranged on the axis (5)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a folding box (1), comprising a bottom and first and second side walls (2,3) which are pivotably connected to the bottom and, together with the bottom, form a box that is open to the top in the folded-open state, further comprising at least one holding element (4) that is disposed on a first side wall (2) and at least one axis (5) that is rotatably supported on a second side wall (3), wherein the at least one axis (5) has a cross-section that deviates from a circular section on at least one axis end (5a, 5b), and the at least one axis end (5a, 5b) locks the first to the second side wall (2, 3) in a first rotational position and unlocks said side walls (2, 3) in a second rotational position.