Rail System for Transport Cases with Adjustable Locking Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport crates are expensive and inefficient, as they are designed for specific object geometries and require numerous steps to secure objects, limiting their versatility and increasing the risk of damage during transport due to unwanted movements.
Innovation Solution
A rail system comprising ratchet rails and holding elements with backstops, allowing for adjustable positioning and secure fixation of objects of varying sizes, featuring a mechanism for easy release and reuse, and made from cost-effective materials like plastic for quick assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transport boxes are designed for specific object geometries, then objects can be secured, but versatility is limited and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a transport box with a standardized rail system that can accommodate objects of different geometries and sizes. The rails with adjustable retaining elements allow the same box structure to securely hold various objects (e.g., cylindrical, rectangular, irregular shapes) by simply repositioning the retainers, eliminating the need for multiple specialized boxes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the adjustable retaining elements that can be moved along the rails to different positions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the securing mechanism to adapt to objects of varying dimensions, transforming a static box design into a flexible, multi-functional system.
2Reliability
If manual screwing of fixing blocks is required, then objects can be secured, but numerous steps and time are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screwing operation with a simpler retaining element system that slides along the rails and locks into position using a ratchet or detent mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for screwdrivers and multiple tightening steps, reducing assembly time while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining elements are designed to self-lock into position on the rails through inherent mechanical features (such as spring-loaded detents or friction locks), eliminating the need for additional fastening operations. The system serves itself by automatically maintaining the retained position without requiring manual intervention for securing.
3Reliability
If complex locking mechanisms are used, then objects can be secured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the securing function into simple, modular components: rails fixed to the box, and retaining elements that move along the rails. Each component has a single, simple function, and their combination provides secure fixation without requiring a complex integrated mechanism. This segmentation allows for easy manufacturing and assembly.
4Adaptability or versatility
If reusable rail systems are designed, then multiple uses are enabled, but release mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a simple release mechanism that acts as an intermediary to control the retaining elements. This release mechanism (such as a button or lever) simultaneously actuates multiple retaining elements, allowing all of them to be released with a single action. This intermediary simplifies the reuse process while enabling efficient control over the entire rail system.
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 rail system enables secure fixation of objects of different sizes with minimal installation time, reducing the risk of damage and improving packing efficiency by allowing multiple uses without the need for specialized tools or extensive setup.
Implementation Method 1
at least one locking toothed rail, and furthermore at least one retaining element, wherein the at least one retaining element is slidably arranged along a longitudinal axis LA of the at least one rail element and the at least one locking toothed rail and has at least one backstop, wherein the at least one retaining element is configured to block a sliding movement in a locking direction of the at least one locking toothed rail by means of the at least one backstop
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a rail system (100) for a transport case (1), wherein the rail system (100) comprises at least one rail element (10, 10') having at least one locking tooth rail (16) and furthermore at least one retaining element (20, 20'), wherein the at least one retaining element (20, 20') is movably arranged along a longitudinal axis (LA) of the at least one rail element (10, 10') and the at least one locking tooth rail (16) and has at least one backstop (18), wherein the at least one retaining element (20, 20') is designed to block a shifting movement by means of the at least one backstop (18) in a locking direction of the at least one locking tooth rail (16) and is designed to be movable in a free travel direction (13) of the at least one locking tooth rail (16), which is directed opposite the locking direction. The invention further relates to a transport case (1), to the use thereof, and to a method for fixing at least one object (12, 12', 12", 12"') in the transport case (1).