Stackable Box Snap Locks for Arbitrary Coupling Order
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stackable box systems lack flexibility in coupling, as they restrict the order in which boxes and covers can be stacked together, limiting their configuration options.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of snap locks at the top of the cover, matching those at the bottom of the boxes, allows for arbitrary coupling of boxes and covers, enabling flexible stacking configurations, including the ability to stack multiple covers and boxes in various combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If boxes are coupled together with covers confined between them, then the boxes are securely locked together, but the flexibility in stacking configuration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed with locking means at both its top and bottom surfaces, enabling it to function both as a protective cover and as a coupling element. This allows the cover to be integrated into the stacking system universally, permitting boxes and covers to be coupled in any order without requiring different locking mechanisms for different configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple boxes and covers are coupled in arbitrary order, then stacking flexibility is improved, but the complexity of the coupling system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into independent locking means located at distinct locations: locking means at the bottom of boxes, locking means at the top of boxes, locking means at the bottom of covers, and locking means at the top of covers. This segmentation allows each component to independently engage with its counterpart, simplifying the overall coupling mechanism while enabling flexible stacking configurations.
3Ease of operation
If snap locks are used for coupling, then ease of operation is improved, but the load-bearing capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system merges two types of locking mechanisms: snap locks for easy engagement and disengagement operations, and hooks or flanges with fixing holes for enhanced load-bearing capacity. The snap locks provide user-friendly coupling operations, while the hooks or flanges distribute and bear the mechanical loads, particularly for heavy boxes, thereby combining operational ease with structural strength.
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
This solution provides a highly flexible stackable box system that allows for user-friendly configuration and separation of boxes and covers in any order, ensuring secure locking and easy handling, even with heavy loads.
Implementation Method 1
the locking means at the bottom of the boxes and the covers are formed by at least one snap lock, which is adapted to grip an edge at the top of the boxes or the covers
Implementation Method 2
When the boxes are coupled together, they are moved laterally inwards, whereby the hooks or the flanges extend into the fixing holes, while the snap lock automatically locks the boxes to each other
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
When stackable boxes (1) are coupled together, which are optionally provided with a cover (1a), all the boxes and covers have locking means, which are formed by at least one gripper part (2, 2a) at their underside, which is preferably biased (2, 3), and which is capable of gripping an edge (4, 4a) provided at the upper side of the boxes or the covers. Hereby, boxes and covers may always be coupled together in an arbitrary order. In a first embodiment, the boxes and the covers have snap locks (2, 2a) and edges (4, 4a) in their gables, while, in a second embodiment, they are constructed with a gripper part and an edge in their one gable, while, in the other gable, they are provided with hooks or flanges which are capable of engaging fixing holes. The stackable boxes may generally be used as a storage device.