Retractable Suitcase Wheels With Solenoid Locking for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing towable baggage systems with retractable wheels are cumbersome and inefficient, often requiring complex mechanisms that occupy valuable space and limit storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
A retractable wheel system using a spring, shaft, and solenoid mechanism that allows wheels to be automatically retracted and extended by applying force, minimizing space usage and ensuring secure locking within the baggage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If complex systems of locks and springs are used to retract wheels, then the wheels can be retracted within the baggage, but the system occupies substantial space within the baggage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from a complex multi-component system and implements it through a simple solenoid-actuated pin mechanism. The solenoid (314) directly controls the locking pin (308) to engage or disengage the wheel assembly from the housing, eliminating the need for complex springs and multiple locks while reducing the overall volume of the wheel system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical spring-based locking systems with an electromechanical solenoid actuator. The solenoid (314) uses electromagnetic force to move the locking pin (308), substituting complex mechanical spring systems with a more compact and controllable electromagnetic mechanism, thereby reducing space occupation within the baggage.
2Ease of operation
If manual retraction of wheels is implemented, then the wheels can be retracted within the baggage, but the process becomes arduous and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through the solenoid-actuated system that automatically retracts and locks the wheel assembly when electrical power is applied. The system performs the retraction and locking functions autonomously without requiring manual manipulation by the user, making the operation simple and quick while accommodating fragile or heavy items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical retraction operations with an electromechanical solenoid system. The solenoid (314) actuates the locking pin (308) to automatically secure the wheel assembly within the housing, eliminating the need for manual effort and significantly reducing the time required for wheel retraction.
3Reliability
If complex systems of locks and springs are used to retract wheels, then the wheels can be securely locked within the baggage, but the system limits the amount of items that can be stored
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential locking function from complex traditional systems and implements it through a minimal solenoid-actuated pin mechanism. This streamlined approach maintains secure locking of the wheel assembly while minimizing the space consumed by the wheel system, thereby maximizing the storage capacity available for items within the baggage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces bulky mechanical spring and lock systems with a compact electromechanical solenoid actuator. The solenoid (314) and locking pin (308) provide reliable security for the wheel assembly while occupying minimal volume, thus preserving maximum storage capacity for other items within the baggage.
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 system efficiently reduces space occupation while providing secure wheel retraction and extension, enhancing storage capacity and ease of use, especially for fragile or heavy items.
Implementation Method 1
The locking pin may be configured to traverse the solenoid in an opposite direction, and be positioned between a distal end of the housing and the solenoid
Implementation Method 2
the spring may automatically elongate to apply a force against an upper surface of the shaft to push the wheel outside of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
Retractable wheels within a suitcase that are configured to be positioned within the suitcase responsive to applying a downward force on the suitcase.