Tool Case Receptacle Positioning via Dynamic Fastening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tool cases lack flexibility in accommodating tools and small parts, as they often require fixed positions for the receptacle, limiting their usability based on the size and type of items stored.

Innovation Solution

A tool case design featuring a pivotable cover with adjustable fastening devices that allow the receptacle to be fixed in multiple positions on the inside of the cover, enabling flexible placement and use of space based on the items stored, including latching devices with undercuts and a spring tongue for secure and visual confirmation of the latched state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the receptacle is fixed in a fixed position on the inside of the lid, then the structure is simple and stable, but the flexibility and adaptability of the case is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of caseVSAvoidcomplexity of fastening system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic positioning system where the receptacle can be moved to different positions on the lid's inner surface. Multiple first fastening devices are distributed at different locations, allowing the receptacle to be repositioned according to storage needs. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by enabling flexibility without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system is designed with universal compatibility - the same first and second fastening devices work at all positions. The second fastening device on the receptacle can engage with any of the multiple first fastening devices on the lid, creating a universal interface that simplifies the overall system while providing multiple positioning options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the receptacle can be positioned in multiple locations, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced due to alignment requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning flexibilityVSAvoidease of receptacle attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is designed to be self-aligning. The second fastening device on the receptacle automatically finds and engages with one of the first fastening devices on the lid without requiring precise manual alignment. The geometric design of the fastening devices ensures that once the receptacle is placed near a first fastening device, the components naturally guide themselves into the locked position, eliminating complex alignment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If locking devices are used to secure the receptacle, then the reliability of fixation is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced due to locking mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of receptacle fixationVSAvoidsimplicity of attachment process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism operates automatically through the interaction of the first and second fastening devices. When the receptacle is positioned near a first fastening device, the second fastening device automatically engages and locks into place without requiring manual activation. The user simply needs to place the receptacle near the desired position, and the self-service locking mechanism handles the securement, maintaining both reliability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If the lid interior is made flat, then the space utilization is improved, but the adaptability for different tool sizes is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different toolsVSAvoidshape of lid interior
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The lid's inner surface is segmented into multiple zones with different geometric characteristics. Rather than being uniformly flat or uniformly contoured, the lid has distinct regions that can accommodate different tool shapes and sizes. The receptacle can be positioned in different segments depending on what needs to be stored, providing adaptability while maintaining an overall simple lid structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3230014B1Case for accommodating tools or small parts
Publication Date: 2020.05.13 WURTH INT AG
  • EP3230014B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3230014B1 patent drawingFigure 3~6
  • EP3230014B1 patent drawingFigure 7~10

AI summary

The invention relates to a case for accommodating tools or small parts, comprising a main body, a lid hinged to pivot on the main body and a receptacle secured on an inner side of the lid for documents and/or small parts, wherein the inner side of the lid is provided with a plurality of first securing devices which are designed to match second securing devices on the receptacle, wherein the first and second securing devices are designed and arranged such that the receptacle can be fixed in at least two different positions on the inner side of the lid.