Retractable Guitar Stand and Utility Case Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a more efficient device to hold and protect musical instruments, as well as better utility cases for transporting musical equipment, as existing solutions are inadequate in terms of efficiency and protection.

Innovation Solution

A retractable stand device comprising an upper u-shaped member, a lower elongated frame with rubber coating, and a utility case with adjustable compartments and foam lining, allowing for secure attachment to vertical or horizontal objects, and enabling easy transportation and protection of musical instruments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a retractable stand device is integrated with a utility case, then the protection and holding capability of musical instruments is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines a retractable stand device with a utility case into a single integrated system. The stand mechanism (including u-shaped members, elongated frames, and retractable components) is merged with the case structure (base, cover, and compartments), allowing the case to serve dual purposes as both protective enclosure and instrument support/transport system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The utility case is designed to perform multiple functions: it protects musical instruments during transport, provides a retractable stand for displaying or working on instruments, and offers adjustable compartments for organizing equipment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices while improving overall protection and utility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable compartments and foam lining are added to the utility case, then the protection and adaptability for different equipment is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The utility case is divided into multiple adjustable compartments that can be configured to fit different sizes and types of musical equipment. The segmentation allows users to customize the internal layout for various instrument combinations, improving adaptability while maintaining a modular structure that doesn't excessively increase complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different sections of the case interior are equipped with specific protective features such as foam lining in areas where instruments require cushioning, while other areas may have harder surfaces or different configurations. This localized application of protective qualities optimizes protection for specific equipment types without adding unnecessary complexity throughout the entire case.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If the stand device is made retractable with locking mechanisms, then the ease of transportation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of transportationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stand components (u-shaped members and elongated frames) are designed to be retractable rather than fixed, allowing them to extend when needed for instrument support and retract into the case for compact transportation. This dynamic capability enables the structure to adapt between operational and transport states, improving ease of transportation despite the added mechanism complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanisms are pre-configured to automatically engage when the stand components are extended to their proper positions, and to release when retraction is initiated. This preliminary positioning and automatic locking reduces the operational steps required by the user, making the system easier to operate despite the presence of additional mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9016701B2Retractable device and utility case
Publication Date: 2015.04.28 ALLEN PAUL ELIJAH
  • US9016701B2 patent drawing
  • US9016701B2 patent drawing
  • US9016701B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The retractable stand device may include an upper device 161, a top device 171, and a lower device 181 that may hold a musical instrument such as a guitar. In addition, the retractable stand device may be in combination with a utility case 100 or it may be a kit with installation hardware. The utility case 100 may include a hinged lid 122 for access to an upper compartment 120, a base 140 for amplifiers, fixed compartments 130, movable compartments 128, handles 118, and wheels 142. Numerous combinations of stand devices and utility case options are included.