Sterilization Container Sliding Lid Hinge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sterilization cases in the medical field often have lids that become separated during use, leading to inefficiencies and reduced effectiveness in the sterilization process due to the need for compact and easy-to-use designs in limited spaces.
Innovation Solution
A sterilization container with a hingedly fixed, slidable, and nestable lid, featuring elongated blind cavities in the sidewalls that house movable hinges, allowing the lid to transition between fully closed and fully open positions, enabling convenient storage and use while maintaining a compact form.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lid is made removable for easy cleaning and access, then ease of operation is improved, but the lid may become separated from the case during use, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one, allowing the lid to move between closed and open positions while remaining attached. The hinge pin can be removed for cleaning but prevents complete separation during normal use, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge connection is segmented into a hinge pin and hinge brackets, allowing the lid to be detached for cleaning while maintaining connection during use. The segmented design enables both secure attachment and easy removal when needed.
2Volume of moving object
If the sterilization case is designed to be compact for limited space, then space efficiency is improved, but the lid may become detached during opening, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic hinge mechanism allows the lid to pivot and slide within the compact case structure, maintaining reliable attachment while accommodating the limited space. The hinge movement is constrained within the case boundaries, preserving compactness while preventing detachment.
3Ease of operation
If the lid is made movable for easy access to instruments, then ease of operation is improved, but the lid may be lost when separated, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism provides dynamic movement for easy instrument access while maintaining continuous attachment through the hinge connection. The lid can be opened and closed repeatedly without risk of complete separation or loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge brackets are nested within recesses in the case sidewalls, and the hinge pin fits within the hinge brackets. This nested arrangement ensures the lid remains attached during movement while allowing full range of motion for instrument access.
4Ease of manufacture
If the case design is simplified for manufacturing, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the lid attachment mechanism becomes less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge attachment is segmented into simple components: hinge brackets that can be molded into the case sidewalls and a separate hinge pin. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing while ensuring reliable attachment through the mechanical connection of multiple simple parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge brackets serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the hinge pin, guide lid movement, and can be integrated into the case molding process. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex attachment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A sterilization container includes a floor. A first sidewall is connected to a first side of the floor and a second sidewall is connected to a second side of the floor wherein each of the first and second sidewalls has an elongated blind cavity formed along a length thereof. A first hinge is positioned partially within the blind cavity of the first sidewall, and a second hinge is positioned partially within the blind cavity of the second sidewall, wherein each of the first and second hinges are movable along a length of the first and second blind cavities, respectively. A lid is connected between the first and second hinges and is positionable between a first position substantially parallel with the floor on a third side of the floor, and a second position substantially parallel with the floor on a fourth side of the floor.