Rotary Locking Mechanism for Transport Containers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transport and storage containers experience snagging issues between pin-shaped locking elements and counter-locking elements, leading to malfunctions over time or with intensive use.
Innovation Solution
Designing the locking element as a hollow sphere and the counter-locking element as a spherical hemisphere, with a spring tongue arrangement, to ensure reliable engagement and functionality even under adverse conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If pin-shaped locking elements and counter-locking elements are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but snagging occurs leading to malfunctions over time
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a hollow sphere and the counter-locking element as a spherical hemisphere, replacing the traditional pin-shaped design. This spherical geometry eliminates sharp edges and corners that cause snagging, allowing smooth engagement and disengagement while maintaining structural integrity and reliability over extended use.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional locking elements are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the locking mechanism is exposed to dirt and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a hollow sphere that receives and encloses the spherical counter-locking element within its cavity. This nested configuration protects the locking interface from external contaminants like dirt while maintaining ease of manufacture through injection molding of the hollow spherical structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the locking element is designed as a hollow sphere, then protection from dirt and damage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element geometry is changed to a hollow sphere with an internal cavity, and the counter-locking element is designed as a complementary spherical hemisphere. This parameter change in shape and structure provides protection from dirt and damage while the spherical geometry allows for efficient manufacturing through standard injection molding techniques, balancing protection with manufacturability.
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 solution significantly improves the functional reliability and service life of the container by protecting the locking mechanism from dirt and damage, preventing snagging and maintaining effective engagement over long periods.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring acting on the locking element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a transport and/or storage container equipped with a base (1), end walls (2) rotatably connected to the base (1), and longitudinal walls (3). A rotary locking unit (4 to 10) with a handle (7) and an attached locking element (5) is also provided. The locking element (5) interacts with a counter-locking element (6). According to the invention, the locking element (5) is designed as a cavity, and the counter-locking element (6) is designed as a corresponding projection that can be releasably engaged in the locking element (5) for rotary locking.