Suitcase Locking Pin Linkage for Easy Size Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suitcases, both expandable and non-expandable, face issues with inconvenient and labor-intensive locking mechanisms, and non-expandable suitcases lack flexibility in storage space adjustment, while expandable suitcases have cumbersome connections.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a hollow housing, locking base, locking mechanism, and linkage mechanism, featuring a locking pin, spring, button, pull rope, and thrust member, allowing for easy adjustment of the suitcase's size by retracting and extending the locking pin with a simple button press.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a detachable case is connected to the original case by a zipper-based locking structure, then the case can be expanded, but the connection is not convenient and labor-saving in practical use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional zipper-based mechanical locking system with a button-triggered linkage mechanism that operates through a pull rope and thrust member system. This substitution transforms the complex zipper operation into a simple button press action, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining the expandability function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pull rope as an intermediary element between the button and the locking pin. When the button is pressed, the pull rope transmits the force through the linkage mechanism to move the locking pin, enabling the case to be locked or unlocked with minimal user effort while preserving the expandable functionality.
2Reliability
If a traditional locking mechanism is used, then the case can be securely locked, but the operation is inconvenient and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional labor-intensive locking mechanisms with a button-operated system that uses a pull rope and linkage mechanism. This substitution maintains secure locking through the locking pin engagement while reducing the operational effort to a simple button press, significantly improving ease of operation without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage the locking pin when the button is pressed or released. The spring-loaded thrust member and pull rope system create a self-operating mechanism that eliminates the need for manual manipulation of complex locking components, making the operation convenient while ensuring reliable locking.
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
The locking device provides a convenient and labor-saving means to adjust the suitcase's size, ensuring reliable locking and improved storage flexibility through synchronized operation of multiple locking pins and springs.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring arranged in the receiving cavity and abutting the locking pin
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device includes a housing, a locking base, a locking mechanism and a linkage mechanism. The locking base is provided with a receiving cavity. The locking mechanism includes a locking pin and a first spring. The locking pin is arranged in the receiving cavity. The first spring abuts the locking pin. The linkage mechanism includes a button, a pull rope and a thrust member. The button is arranged on the housing. The lower end of the pull rope is connected to the button, and the upper end of the pull rope is connected to the thrust member. An end of the locking pin is retracted into or stretched out of the receiving cavity by the thrust member. A size-adjustable suitcase including the locking device, an upper case body and a lower case body is further provided.