Pivotable Flap Container With Secure Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containers for small parts lack secure closure mechanisms to prevent accidental opening due to vibrations or impact, and are not suitable for efficient stacking and storage due to bulky designs and complex closure systems.
Innovation Solution
A container design featuring a pivotable front wall with angled tabs and a secure locking mechanism using a cover plate and stop bars, allowing for easy access while preventing unintentional opening, and enabling space-saving stacking through a cuboid shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pivotable front wall with tabs is used, then easy access to parts is achieved, but the container is vulnerable to accidental opening due to vibrations or impact
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism applies a preliminary counteracting force to prevent the harmful effect of accidental opening. The tabs engage with the locking mechanism to create a form-fitting connection that resists vibrations and impact forces before they can cause the flap to open unintentionally.
Solution Approach 2:
The front wall is designed as a pivotable flap that can dynamically transition between closed and open positions. The tabs on the flap engage with the locking mechanism to provide secure closure during transport, while allowing intentional opening when needed for part removal.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then accidental opening is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. The form-fitting connection between the tabs and locking mechanism provides secure closure automatically when the flap is closed, and can be easily opened by manual intervention.
3Ease of operation
If an inclined front wall is used, then access to container is simplified, but the container becomes bulky and unsuitable for stacking
Solution Approach 1:
The front wall is designed as a pivotable flap that can be opened for access to parts, providing the benefits of an inclined design for easy access. When closed, the flap maintains a compact cuboid shape that allows for space-efficient stacking of multiple containers on pallets.
Data Source
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AI summary
The container has base plate (1) and the container walls (4) that are fixedly connected together. A flap (5) is swingable around axis (6) in the region of the base plate. A cover plate is provided for closing the top of the container. The cover plate is provided for positively securing the flap. A downwardly angled plate portion (8) is provided to cover the upper portion of the flap located in closed position.