Optical Instrument Case with Elastic Chord Lid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cases for optical instruments, such as binoculars, face challenges in providing hassle-free access and safe storage, as existing cover designs either hinder quick access or create bulk and risk damage from debris and moisture when open.
Innovation Solution
A case design featuring a lid with elastic chords and compressible side portions that can be easily opened and closed, maintaining a low profile while preventing debris and moisture entry, with a harness attachment for secure wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cover is opened away from the user, then it is out of the way for removing and replacing the optical instrument, but it extends from the case thereby creating extra bulk and can get caught on objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cover made of thin, pliable material that can be compressed and folded. When opened, the cover is pushed into the case cavity where it compresses against the optical instrument, maintaining a low profile without extending outward. This flexible membrane approach allows the cover to provide protection while eliminating the bulk problem of traditional rigid covers.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is designed to nest within the case cavity when opened. Instead of extending outward, the cover folds and compresses into the available space inside the case, similar to nested dolls. This nesting arrangement allows the cover to remain accessible for operation while maintaining a compact overall form factor that prevents snagging on objects.
2Ease of operation
If the cover is opened away from the user, then it is out of the way, but it acts as a bowl and collects dust, dirt, debris and moisture
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cover material conforms to the shape of the optical instrument and case cavity, eliminating the bowl-shaped depression that collects debris. When opened, the cover compresses flat against the instrument rather than forming a container, preventing accumulation of dust, dirt, and moisture while still providing protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover transitions from a static, bowl-shaped structure to a dynamic, compressible membrane that actively conforms to the instrument shape during operation. This dynamic behavior ensures the cover surface remains relatively flat and non-collecting when opened, while still providing coverage when closed.
3Volume of moving object
If the cover is opened toward the user, then it does not create bulk, but it hinders the user's ability to quickly pull the optical instrument out of the case
Solution Approach 1:
The cover operation transitions from a horizontal opening motion (toward or away from user) to a vertical compression motion into the case cavity. By changing the dimension of movement from lateral to depth-oriented, the cover can be opened without extending outward while simultaneously providing clear access to the instrument for quick removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible nature of the cover allows it to be compressed vertically into the case cavity along the depth dimension, rather than opening horizontally. This flexible membrane can be pushed inward to provide access while maintaining a low profile, solving both the bulk and accessibility issues 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
Enables easy access to the optical instrument while maintaining a low profile and preventing damage from debris and moisture, enhancing user convenience and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a first of the two pairs of oppositely disposed side walls each includes an elastic chord connecting the respective side wall to the corresponding side portion of the lid
Data Source
AI summary
A case for an optical instrument is provided. The case has a body with a bottom and two pairs of oppositely disposed side walls connected to the body forming a cavity. The case also includes a lid having a top cover and two pairs of oppositely disposed side portions, each of which corresponds with and overlaps a corresponding side wall of the body when the lid is in a closed position. A first pair of the two pairs of side walls each includes an elastic chord which connects the given side wall to the corresponding side portion of the lid.