Single-Piece Centering Lock for Folding Cases
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding cases lack a robust and durable locking system that can withstand impacts and ensure secure closure, leading to potential unintentional opening during use or transport, which affects safety and longevity.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece centering locking system integrated with a spring mechanism that enhances centralization, assembly ease, and durability, comprising two sets of springs that provide coordinated movement for locking and unlocking the folding sidewalls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking systems are used in folding cases, then the cases can be assembled and locked, but the locking system lacks robustness and may fail under impacts or excessive loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the centralizing system and locking system into a single unified structure. The centralizing pins and locking pins are combined in one component, eliminating the need for separate centralizing and locking mechanisms. This merger maintains reliability by providing robust impact resistance while reducing device complexity through consolidation of functions.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate centralizing and locking systems are used, then the locking function is provided, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the centralizing and locking systems into a single integrated component, the patent enables assembly of both functions simultaneously. The unified structure with integrated pins and springs eliminates multiple assembly steps, reducing assembly time and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining the effectiveness of both centralizing and locking functions.
3Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate locking components are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces production costs by consolidating multiple separate components (centralizing pins, locking pins, springs) into a single integrated locking system. This merger reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining the necessary functionality through the unified design.
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 integrated spring system improves the robustness and durability of the locking mechanism, reducing assembly time and costs while ensuring secure closure and prolonged economic life of the folding cases.
Implementation Method 1
at least two springs (5) that are fixed onto the short side (1) and protrude in the upward and downward direction from the locking bolt (14), and that reinforce its centralization through their coordinated movement
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is about a new, single-piece, centering locking system that has a built-in spring (5) system on it, which allows for the opening of a folding sidewall and lock in place, and the folding cases that can be used in storage and hauling in which this locking system is used.