Storage Device Coupling Mechanism for Weight Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices with snap lock mechanisms require users to grip the snap locks with both hands to detach boxes and covers, transferring the weight to the snap locks, necessitating sturdy construction to prevent breakage.
Innovation Solution
The storage device employs a second coupling mechanism allowing lateral displacement for detachment, with a pin and edge configuration that supports the weight of the cover or box, preventing weight transfer to the snap lock during release, and includes a recessed carrier grip to absorb weight, enabling quick and simple assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If snap locks are used to detach boxes and covers, then the coupling mechanism is simple, but the weight of the boxes and covers is transferred to the snap locks, requiring them to be made very sturdy and increasing the risk of breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into two independent parts: a first coupling means (snap lock) for quick release and a second coupling means (pin and edge) for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the snap lock handles detachment operations while the pin-edge mechanism bears the weight, eliminating the need for the snap lock to be overly sturdy.
2Strength
If snap locks are made very sturdy to prevent breaking under weight, then the strength is improved, but the cost increases and the snap locks become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into two independent parts: a first coupling means (snap lock) for quick release and a second coupling means (pin and edge) for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the snap lock handles detachment operations while the pin-edge mechanism bears the weight, eliminating the need for the snap lock to be overly sturdy.
3Reliability
If the entire weight is supported by the snap lock, then the coupling is secure, but the snap lock is subjected to high stress and may break
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into two independent parts: a first coupling means (snap lock) for quick release and a second coupling means (pin and edge) for structural support. This segmentation allows each component to specialize - the snap lock handles detachment operations while the pin-edge mechanism bears the weight, eliminating the need for the snap lock to be overly sturdy.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution introduces a spatial dimension to the coupling system by adding a second coupling means at a different location (the other gable). This dimensional addition creates a distributed support system where weight is borne by the pin-edge mechanism while the snap lock remains stress-free, simultaneously improving reliability and reducing strength requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage device for coupling at least one box and at least one cover having a carrier grip, together is formed by a lock or a snap lock, which is provided in one gable or side wall of the cover or the box, while a locking pin is provided in the opposite gable or side wall. The snap lock is adapted to engage a gripper flange, which is provided at the top of the gable or side wall of the box or the cover, while the locking pin is adapted to engage a locking edge, which is provided in the opposite gable or side wall of the box or the cover.