Semi-Automatic Battery Ejection Mechanism for Luggage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage systems face challenges in accommodating modern travel requirements, particularly with airline restrictions on lithium batteries and the need for convenient, single-handed operation of rechargeable battery modules, especially in complex travel environments.
Innovation Solution
A hard-shell luggage system with a telescopically-extendable handle and a semi-automatic battery power module ejection mechanism, allowing for easy access and removal of rechargeable battery modules using a single finger, while providing USB power ports protected from the elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If battery modules are made removable to comply with airline regulations, then compliance with airline restrictions is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for ejection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The battery power module is segmented as a separate, removable component from the luggage system. This allows the battery to be independently ejected and removed to comply with airline regulations requiring lithium batteries to be carried in the cabin rather than checked baggage.
Solution Approach 2:
The ejection mechanism is designed to be self-activating through a simple finger-press action on the battery module itself. The spring-loaded plunger automatically ejects the battery when activated, eliminating the need for complex manual removal procedures or additional tools.
2Ease of operation
If battery modules are made easily removable for compliance, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability decreases due to potential accidental ejection
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system dynamically transitions between two states: a locked state where the spring plunger holds the battery securely in place during normal use, and an unlocked state where finger pressure on the battery activates ejection. This dynamic mechanism provides both secure retention and easy removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded plunger acts as an intermediary between the user's finger pressure and the battery ejection. It translates the simple act of pressing on the battery into the mechanical force needed to overcome retention and eject the battery module reliably.
3Ease of operation
If USB power ports are made accessible for charging devices, then ease of operation is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to exposure to elements
Solution Approach 1:
The USB power ports are pre-positioned within the handle assembly structure, which serves as a protective enclosure. This preliminary placement within the protected space eliminates exposure to environmental elements like rain and dust while maintaining accessibility for charging devices during travel.
Data Source
AI summary
A luggage system employing a rechargeable battery power supplying assembly. A base housing component is mounted in an aperture formed in the rear housing portion, and has a top surface. A battery module casing is mounted to and beneath the base housing component. A rechargeable battery power module is contained in the battery module casing, and provides a DC battery recharging port and a set of DC power supplying ports. A semi-automatic battery power module ejection mechanism is mounted within a battery module casing.