Flexible-Wing Locking Pin for Secure Tool Case Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool cases lack effective mechanisms to securely lock their lids, particularly in retail displays, to prevent unauthorized access to the contents.
Innovation Solution
A locking pin system is integrated into the tool case, featuring an elongated body with flexible wings that expand after insertion to secure the lid in the closed position, preventing unauthorized access by engaging with the case's latch mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking pin with flexible wings is inserted into the aperture, then the lid is securely locked in the closed position, but the locking mechanism requires a more complex structure with wings that can flex and expand
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin employs flexible wings that can dynamically change their configuration - flexing inward during insertion and expanding outward upon full insertion. This dynamic behavior allows a single component to provide both easy insertion and secure locking without requiring multiple separate parts, thus improving reliability while managing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin utilizes changes in the physical state and dimensions of its wings - transitioning from a compressed/flexed state during insertion to an expanded state when locked. This parameter change enables the wings to adapt their shape and size to engage with the aperture walls, providing secure locking through material property changes rather than complex mechanical structures.
2Reliability
If the locking pin uses wings that expand outwardly to secure the lid, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex due to the flexible wing structure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin incorporates thin, flexible wing structures that can be manufactured as integral parts of the elongated body using techniques such as stamping, forming, or injection molding. These flexible elements provide the necessary expansion capability for secure locking while being relatively simple to manufacture compared to assembling multiple rigid components with moving parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin may utilize composite material structures combining rigid and flexible portions, or materials with specific elastic properties, to achieve the desired expansion behavior. This allows the wings to be manufactured with built-in flexibility characteristics through material selection rather than complex geometric design, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining security functionality.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the lid, then the tool case can be securely displayed in retail settings, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin integrates multiple functions into a single component - the elongated body provides structural support and insertion capability, while the attached wings provide the locking and securing function. This merging of functions into one integrated part adds security capability to the tool case without requiring separate locking mechanisms, thus improving reliability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin with flexible wings serves multiple purposes: it acts as a structural element, a locking mechanism, and a security feature for retail display. This multi-functional design allows the same component to fulfill various roles, adding security capabilities without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same structure provides multiple benefits simultaneously.
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 locking pin effectively secures the lid, deterring unauthorized access and allowing secure display of tool cases in retail settings without requiring destruction of the locking mechanism for access.
Implementation Method 1
The elongated body includes wings that are configured to flex inwardly as the locking pin is inserted into the aperture. The wings are configured to expand outwardly after the locking pin is fully inserted into the aperture to secure the lid in the closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool case includes a base and a lid movably coupled to the base between an open position and a closed position. The lid and the base define an aperture when in the closed position. The tool case includes a latch coupled to the base and the lid to selectively restrict movement of the lid relative to the base from the closed position to the open position. The tool case includes a locking pin positioned in the aperture to secure the lid in the closed position.