Modular Tool Box Locking Assembly for Mixed-Size Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool box assemblies are limited in versatility as they can only be stacked with tool boxes of the same size, and the connectors restrict the detachment of insertion plates, preventing flexible assembly and stacking with boxes of different sizes.
Innovation Solution
A tool box assembly with multiple locking units, including first, second, third, and fourth locking units, allowing for the assembly and stacking of tool boxes with different widths and heights by utilizing various locking mechanisms and a fourth locking unit that can be detached for easy disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the engaging portion is received in the room of another tool box, then the tool boxes can be stacked, but the tool boxes cannot be assembled with tool boxes of different sizes, limiting versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into multiple independent locking units (first locking unit, second locking unit, third locking unit) that can independently engage with corresponding receiving portions. This segmentation allows different combinations of locking units to engage with different configurations of receiving portions, enabling tool boxes of various sizes to be stacked while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking units are designed with universal functionality to accommodate different tool box sizes. The first locking unit has a locking portion that can engage with a receiving portion, and the second locking unit has a restricting portion that can engage with another receiving portion. These locking units can be configured in different arrangements to work with tool boxes of various dimensions, making the stacking system universally applicable.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the connectors are snapped onto the blocks, then the connectors restrict the insertion plates to prevent detachment, but the connectors only slide leftward or rightward, limiting assembly flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The locking units are designed with dynamic engagement capabilities. The locking portions can slide horizontally within the locking units to engage or disengage from the receiving portions. This dynamic movement allows the connectors to adapt to different assembly configurations while maintaining stable connections when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking portions act as intermediaries between the connectors and the receiving portions. They provide a mediating mechanism that allows the connectors to restrict the insertion plates (preventing detachment) while still enabling flexible assembly through horizontal sliding movement. The locking portions translate the sliding motion into effective locking or unlocking actions.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool box assembly includes a first body, a first receiving portion, two first locking units, a second body, three second locking units, a third locking unit, and a fourth locking unit. The first receiving portion is provided with a first receiving recess and an opening. Each of the first locking units is provided with a projecting piece, at least one first locking portion, and a first restriction portion. Each of the second locking units is provided with a second receiving recess and a second locking portion. The third locking unit is locked on the first locking units. The fourth locking unit is mounted on the first receiving portion and locked on one of the second locking units. The fourth locking unit is driven to be detached from the second locking units.