Spring-Loaded Anchoring Mechanism for Folding Crate Walls
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for folding crates require individual operation of each lock, making it difficult to simultaneously disengage pairs of locks with one hand, which complicates handling and assembly.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with horizontally operated pairs of locks and a central control piece that uses spring elements with dual functions to facilitate simultaneous operation, allowing the locks to be displaced horizontally and then return to their initial position using elastic energy, enabling easy folding and unfolding of the crate with a single hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual locks are used on each lateral wall, then secure fastening is achieved, but operation complexity increases and cannot be simultaneously operated with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple independent locks are merged into a single integrated locking mechanism. The patent combines several locking actions into one unified device that can simultaneously engage or disengage multiple lateral walls through a single operating motion, resolving the contradiction between secure fastening and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple locking operations simultaneously. A single mechanism serves universal purposes of securing different lateral walls at once, eliminating the need for separate individual lock operations while maintaining secure fastening across all walls.
2Ease of operation
If vertical displacement fastenings are used, then operation is simplified, but security and reliability of fastening is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism employs dynamic elements including spring-loaded components that automatically engage and disengage locks through vertical displacement. The springs provide automatic resetting and ensure positive engagement, maintaining security while enabling simple one-handed operation through vertical motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates self-service features where spring elements automatically return the locking mechanism to its engaged position after release. This self-resetting capability ensures reliable fastening without requiring manual repositioning, combining security with operational simplicity.
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 secure and practical simultaneous operation of pairs of locks with a single hand, enhancing ease of use and efficiency in handling and assembly of folding crates.
Implementation Method 1
when operating on a central zone 196a, an elastic deformation would take place pulling on some end sections and simultaneously releasing two end locks or fastenings
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an anchoring device for folding crates. According to the invention, the crates include a base and fours side walls which are articulated with the edges of the base. In addition, two of the opposing walls are provided with anchoring devices which are used to unfold the crate and which generally consist of a central part that can be moved vertically and side locks that can be moved horizontally in order to anchor the side walls at the adjacent edges thereof. The invention is characterised in that it includes elastic spring elements (5) which connect the central control part (1) to the pairs of locks (6) and which, in the rest position, maintain the locks in the lock anchoring and locked position. In the lock release position the spring elements pull the locks towards the release position against the resistance of the elastic elements.