Spring-Loaded Hingeable Compartment for Rapid Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wearable packs require manual effort to open and access compartments, leading to delays and frustration, especially in security checkpoints where rapid access is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A pack with a hingeable section coupled to a spring system that automatically opens when the closure system is released, allowing for quick access to compartments without manual intervention, featuring a movable frame member and a joint formed in pliable material with a flexure bearing or living hinge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If manual opening mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but speed of access is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system automatically propels the hingeable section open when the closure is released, eliminating the need for manual opening actions. The system serves itself by using the spring's stored energy to perform the opening function that would otherwise require user intervention, thereby increasing access speed without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring system is pre-loaded when the hingeable section is closed, storing energy in advance. This preliminary action of loading the spring during the closed state enables rapid opening when needed, as the energy is already prepared and only requires release through closure disengagement.
2Productivity
If manual separation is required, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic opening mechanism performs the separation function without requiring user actions. The spring system self-activates to separate the hingeable section from the closed position, enabling rapid access to compartments for storing or retrieving items, thereby increasing productivity without requiring complex manual operation sequences.
3Reliability
If closure system is added, then reliability of closure is improved, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system automatically performs the opening action when the closure is released, eliminating the need for manual pulling or forcing actions. Users only need to release the closure mechanism, and the spring handles the rest of the opening process, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring reliable closure when engaged.
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 rapid and effortless access to compartments, reducing user effort and time spent on storage and retrieval, enhancing usability in situations requiring quick security clearances.
Implementation Method 1
The hingeable section is coupled to a spring system that is (1) unloaded when the hingeable section is in the first condition and (2) relatively loaded when in the second condition
Implementation Method 2
The joint may comprise a flexure bearing or living hinge formable in the pliable material
Implementation Method 3
the hingeable section may comprise a pliable material
Data Source
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AI summary
The inventive subject matter is generally directed to a pack with an automatically opening compartment. The pack has a body that defines a volume for the containment of articles, and a strap system for supporting the pack in a user's body. A section of the pack is hingeably coupled to another body portion of the pack. The hingeable section has a first condition, providing an opening to a compartment in the pack, and a second condition, closing the opening to the compartment. The hingeable section is coupled to a spring system that is (1) unloaded when the hingeable section is in the first condition and (2) relatively loaded when in the second condition, so that the compartment automatically opens when the closure system is released. The pack may include a closure system for locking the hingeable section in the closed condition.