Shotgun Shell Lighter Case with Hinged Lid and Friction Strap
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a case that effectively mimics the appearance of a shotgun shell to store and protect a lighter, while allowing easy access to the igniter for use.
Innovation Solution
A case comprising a metal disc with a perpendicularly extending plastic tube, a hinged lid, and a strap system that frictionally couples to secure and open the top, resembling a shotgun shell in design and providing easy access to the lighter's igniter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the case is designed to closely resemble a shotgun shell for effective concealment and protection, then the protective function and aesthetic function are improved, but the ease of accessing the lighter may be worsened due to a more secure closure mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed to be movable between a closed position (securing the lighter) and an open position (allowing access). The hinge coupling enables dynamic movement while the friction engagement provides secure closure when needed. This dynamic design resolves the contradiction by allowing the case to switch between protective and accessible states.
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional coupling mechanism allows for adjustable security - the lid can be firmly engaged for protection or easily disengaged for access. The friction-based connection provides variable holding force that can be overcome with minimal effort, balancing security with ease of operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If the case structure is made simple with minimal components for ease of manufacture, then manufacturing cost and complexity are reduced, but the security and protection of the lighter may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lid serves multiple functions simultaneously: it closes the top opening, secures the lighter through frictional engagement, and provides a gripping surface for opening. The strap both closes the case and engages with the tube to secure the lid. By combining multiple functions into single components, the design achieves adequate security without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap is designed as a flexible element that can be easily manufactured and assembled. The flexible nature of the strap allows it to engage and disengage easily while providing sufficient frictional security, balancing manufacturing simplicity with functional reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the tube diameter is reduced to allow easier insertion of the lighter, then ease of insertion is improved, but the protection and securement of the lighter may be worsened due to less structural support
Solution Approach 1:
The tube has different diameters at different locations - a narrower top section for easy lighter insertion and a wider base section for structural support and securement. The lid engagement area provides localized security through frictional coupling. This local variation in dimensions resolves the contradiction by optimizing each section for its specific function.
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 case provides a secure and protective housing for the lighter while allowing easy access to the igniter, mimicking the appearance of a shotgun shell and enhancing usability through its design features.
Implementation Method 1
a strap configured to frictionally couple to secure and open the top
Data Source
AI summary
A lighter case for covering a lighter to resemble a shotgun shell includes a disc, a first tube, and a lid. The first tube is coupled to and extends perpendicularly from the disc. The first tube has a top that is open so that the first tube is configured to insert a lighter through the top. The lid is hingedly coupled to the first tube proximate to the top. The lid is configured to selectively couple to the first tube to close the top.