Identical Hinge Storage Case Assembly for Weight and Strength Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage cases for fragile items like camera equipment and firearms are either too flexible and delicate or too heavy and expensive, failing to provide an ideal balance between weight and strength while being cost-effective and efficient to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A storage case assembly design featuring identical first and second members with male and female hinge members, latch members, and identical handle portions, which are manufactured using ejection molding to maximize efficiency and reduce costs, providing a robust and durable solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional storage cases are made with heavy and robust materials to provide sufficient protection, then strength and durability are improved, but weight increases and manufacturing cost becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The case is divided into two identical half-members that can be separately manufactured using injection molding and then assembled together. This segmentation allows for optimized material usage and reduced weight while maintaining overall structural strength, as each half can be designed to provide specific protective functions without requiring the entire case to be overly robust.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes polymer materials with optimized properties to achieve the required strength-to-weight ratio. By selecting appropriate polymer compositions and implementing proper molding techniques, the case achieves sufficient protection capability without the excessive weight associated with traditional heavy-duty materials.
2Strength
If traditional storage cases are made with heavy and robust materials to provide sufficient protection, then strength and durability are improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the case into two identical half-members enables efficient injection molding production. Each half can be manufactured independently using standard molding tools, reducing tooling costs and allowing for parallel production. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces overall production costs while maintaining protective capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The identical half-members represent a copying approach where one design is replicated to create the complete case. This reduces design complexity, allows for standardized manufacturing processes, and enables economies of scale, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring consistent quality and protection.
3Reliability
If complex assembly processes are used to achieve optimal design, then product performance is improved, but assembly time and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design with identical half-members simplifies assembly by reducing the variety of unique parts that must be fitted together. The symmetry of the design means that fewer different types of connections and fasteners are needed, thereby reducing assembly complexity while still achieving reliable case performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The identical half-members serve multiple functions and can be interchanged, creating a universal design that simplifies assembly. Each half-member contains necessary features (latches, hinges, handles) that can function on either side, reducing the need for specialized components and simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining case reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage case assembly includes a first member with at least one male hinge member and at least one female hinge member; a second member with at least one male hinge member and at least one female hinge member; and at least one latch member that connects the first member and the second member, wherein the first member and the second member are identical.