Suitcase Partition Connection Profile Using Composite Materials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suitcase partition connections are either irreversibly integral with the suitcase body due to stitching, leading to rigidity issues and potential breakage, or suffer from curling and reduced efficacy due to stitching-induced deformation.
Innovation Solution
A connection system using a combination of rigid and soft plastic materials, where the internal portion is made of rigid polypropylene and the external portion includes a stretch of soft material, allowing for a secure and flexible attachment of the partition to the suitcase shell without curling, facilitated by a single stitching process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the connection profile is made of rigid material to support the partition, then the structural strength is improved, but the deformable portion becomes too rigid and prone to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The connection profile combines rigid polypropylene for structural strength with a deformable portion made of a different material that can flex during operation, creating a composite structure that maintains both strength and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connection profile have different material properties - the main body uses rigid material for strength while the deformable portion uses a more flexible material, allowing each region to have the appropriate local quality for its function
2Reliability
If stitching is applied to connect the internal and external portions, then the connection effectiveness is improved, but curling occurs which reduces the connection's efficacy and lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The stitching process is separated into two distinct stages - first stitching the internal portion, then stitching the external portion - which prevents the curling that occurs when both are stitched simultaneously, thereby maintaining connection efficacy throughout the product's lifespan
3Strength
If the partition is made irreversibly integral with the body through stitching, then the connection strength is improved, but the partition becomes non-removable reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separable components - the connection profile with its coupling elements can be detached from the partition, allowing the partition to be removed and reinstalled or replaced while maintaining strong connections when assembled
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 solution provides a quick, effective, and long-lasting connection that prevents curling and ensures the partition's stability and mobility, enhancing the durability and usability of the suitcase.
Implementation Method 1
a second stretch 55 made of soft material, for example of soft thermoplastic material such as PVC, TPE and PP, or rubber, facing said first stretch 54. A stretch of deformable connection 56 in one piece with said second stretch 55 and connected, for example by coextrusion, to the lower part of said first stretch 54 at a connection portion 512, ensures the mobility of said second stretch 55 made of soft material with respect to said first stretch 54 made of rigid material
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A suitcase (1) is described comprising a body (2) with an edge (3) adapted to couple with a compartment (4) of a connection means (5) for a partition (6) adapted to divide the internal space of the suitcase (1) into a lower compartment (7) and an upper compartment (8). Said connection means (5) comprises a raceway (52) which is adapted to slidingly couple with a sliding element (11) which is complementary to the raceway (52) and is fixed to a support element (9), with which the partition (6) is integrally associated. (Fig. 2).