Retractable Suitcase Coupling Mechanism for Multi-Bag Handling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suitcase designs with wheels are inefficient for moving multiple suitcases simultaneously, as users need to manage each suitcase separately and may require additional hands or bending, making it difficult to handle multiple suitcases with ease.

Innovation Solution

A securing device with a main attachment element and a releasing actuator allows two suitcases with wheels to be connected and moved as one, featuring a protruding cylindrical part for secure attachment and a retractable mechanism to prevent bulk when not in use, along with an auxiliary attachment element for easy assembly and disassembly without bending or going around the suitcases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a suitcase is equipped with multiple wheels for easier transport, then the ease of moving a single suitcase is improved, but the ability to move multiple suitcases simultaneously deteriorates as the user needs to manage each suitcase separately

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of moving suitcaseVSAvoidnumber of suitcases that can be moved simultaneously

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent connects multiple suitcases together using a securing device with attachment elements that link the suitcases into a unified assembly. This merging allows the user to move multiple suitcases as a single unit, directly addressing the problem of being unable to move multiple suitcases simultaneously while maintaining the wheel-based ease of movement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The securing device acts as an intermediary element between multiple suitcases, providing a mechanical connection that enables coordinated movement. The attachment elements serve as mediators that join the suitcases without requiring the user to manually connect them, facilitating efficient handling of multiple pieces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If traditional attachment methods are used to connect suitcases, then multiple suitcases can be moved together, but the user must perform multiple actions, bend down, or go around the suitcase to assemble or disassemble them

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to move multiple suitcasesVSAvoidsimplicity of assembly and disassembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment elements are pre-configured on the suitcases with protruding and recessed portions positioned at optimal locations. This preliminary arrangement allows for intuitive connection without requiring the user to perform complex assembly actions, bending, or going around the suitcases. The elements are ready to engage when brought together.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring active assembly actions, the design uses a passive engagement system where the protruding cylindrical part naturally inserts into the recessed portion. The releasing actuator inverts the traditional approach by providing a simple push-to-release mechanism rather than requiring manual disassembly actions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of manufacture

If a protruding cylindrical part is used for attachment, then simple and reliable assembly is achieved, but the dimensions of the suitcase increase when the securing device is not in use

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of assemblyVSAvoiddimensions of suitcase

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The securing device incorporates a retractable mechanism that allows the protruding cylindrical part to extend when needed for attachment and retract into the suitcase body when not in use. This dynamic positioning maintains the simplicity and reliability of the cylindrical attachment design while minimizing the increase in suitcase dimensions during storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 the user to move multiple suitcases with ease, maintaining ergonomic handling and reducing bulk, allowing for secure and efficient transportation of multiple suitcases with wheels using a single hand, while maintaining stability and compatibility with different dimensions and models.

Implementation Method 1

the hooking element comprising a tongue with flexural elastic behavior, fixed at one of its ends to the protruding cylindrical part and in contact, at the other of its ends, with the abutment

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11304486B2Securing device designed to be mounted on a wheeled suitcase, and corresponding auxiliary hooking element

Publication Date: 2022.04.19 AYHAN SERVET

AI summary

This securing device (22, 24), designed to be mounted on a wall (8) of a suitcase (2, 4, 102) with wheels (12), comprises a main hooking element suitable for being fastened to an auxiliary hooking element (26) incorporated into another suitcase (2, 4), and a detaching actuator capable of releasing the main hooking element from the auxiliary hooking element (26).