Sliding-Lock Holding Device for Tool-Free Box Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional holding devices for flowerpots and similar boxes are cumbersome to install, require multiple heavy metal fixtures, and often have locking mechanisms that are difficult to access, leading to potential accidents and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with a simple, ergonomic design featuring a sliding element with ribs and a securing mechanism that allows one-handed operation, eliminating the need for screws and enabling quick, secure attachment to various structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional holding devices use multiple heavy metal fixtures and fasteners, then the box can be securely held, but the device becomes heavy and time-consuming to install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (metal angles, fasteners, locking mechanisms) into a single integrated holding device made of plastic material. The device integrates the mounting bracket, securing elements, and locking mechanism into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate metal fixtures and multiple fasteners while maintaining secure holding capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from heavy metal to lightweight plastic, and changes the structural parameter from multiple separate fixtures to a single integrated component. This parameter change reduces device weight and simplifies installation while maintaining the reliability of box securing through the integrated design.
2Reliability
If conventional holding devices use multiple fasteners and metal angles, then the box can be securely mounted, but the installation becomes time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple installation steps and components into a single integrated device that can be mounted in one operation. The integrated holding device eliminates the need to separately attach metal angles and fasten multiple fasteners, reducing installation time while maintaining secure mounting through the unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device is pre-assembled as an integrated unit with all securing elements and locking mechanisms already in place. This preliminary assembly eliminates the need for on-site assembly of multiple components, significantly reducing installation time while ensuring proper configuration for secure mounting.
3Device complexity
If the locking mechanism is disposed behind the flowerpot, then the structure is compact, but it becomes difficult to access and requires two-handed operation
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the locking mechanism behind the flowerpot where it is difficult to access, the patent inverts the design by providing a user-friendly interface on the front or accessible side of the device. The locking mechanism is operated through an easily accessible interface that can be manipulated with one hand, while the actual locking action occurs within the compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that translates simple user input into the locking action. A user-friendly interface element (such as a button, lever, or slider) serves as an intermediary that the user can easily access and operate, which then actuates the locking mechanism within the compact structure without requiring direct access to the locking components.
4Reliability
If conventional devices require screw joints and tools, then secure attachment is achieved, but user-based skills and tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical screw joint system with an integrated plastic construction that uses friction-fit, snap-fit, or interlocking features. This substitution eliminates the need for screwdrivers and fastening tools while maintaining secure attachment through the engineered plastic interfaces that provide equivalent or superior connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device is designed to install itself without requiring user skills or external tools. The integrated design incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that allow the device to be attached to the mounting surface by simple insertion or snapping into place, with the plastic components automatically forming secure connections without manual fastening operations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A holding device (100) for releasably holding a box (102) includes a holding element (110, 120, 130) which releasably holds the holding device (100) with one or more holding structures (112). The holding device (100) also includes a body (136) defining a channel (138) along an axis (A1). The body (136) is connected to a base portion (144) substantially perpendicular to the body (136) on one side thereof. The holding device (100) further includes a sliding element (160) to be partially received within the channel (138). The holding element (110, 120, 130) is adapted to be received within the channel (138). The holding device (100) is characterized in that the sliding element (160), when received within the channel (138), selectively secures the holding element (110, 120, 130), when the holding element (110, 120, 130) is at least partially received within the channel (138). The sliding element (160) is configured to slide within the channel (138) to switch the holding device (100) between a locked position and an unlocked position.