Tool Storage Coupling for Secure Soft-Rigid Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool storage devices often lack efficient and versatile systems for securely combining soft-sided and rigid storage components, leading to cumbersome transportation and limited organizational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a soft-sided storage device with integral projections and a latch assembly, coupled to a rigid storage case through interlocking channels and apertures, allowing secure and detachable attachment, enabling easy transportation and independent access to both components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If soft-sided storage devices are coupled to rigid storage devices, then organizational flexibility and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate modular components: a coupling mechanism on the rigid storage device and a corresponding receptacle on the soft-sided storage device. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed and manufactured, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility. The modular design enables easy attachment and detachment of different storage components.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of storage devices. The standardized interface allows the same coupling mechanism to accommodate various soft-sided storage devices with different sizes and configurations, thereby improving organizational flexibility without requiring multiple specialized coupling systems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If soft-sided storage devices with rigid bottoms are used, then stability and structural support are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rigid bottom component with the soft-sided storage device in a single integrated manufacturing process. The rigid bottom serves dual functions as both the structural base of the soft-sided device and as the mounting surface for the coupling mechanism, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid bottom is designed with localized reinforcement only where structural support is needed, rather than making the entire device rigid. The coupling mechanism is attached at specific strategic locations on the rigid bottom where it provides maximum stability while minimizing material usage and manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If latch assemblies are integrated into the coupling system, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed as a self-latching mechanism that automatically engages when the soft-sided storage device is inserted into the coupling mechanism. The spring-loaded latch automatically snaps into the locked position, providing reliable connection security without requiring manual operation or additional control mechanisms, thereby maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly acts as an intermediary element between the coupling mechanism and the soft-sided storage device. It provides the locking function while being integrated into the coupling mechanism itself, rather than requiring separate locking components on both devices, thus reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage container with various aspects is described herein. The storage container may have cleats or cleat receptacles to interact with other storage containers and/or accessories. The storage container may also include rails for attachment of various accessories. Some versions of the storage container may further include telescopic uprights connected to a handle. Many of the versions of the storage containers may further include wheels for transporting the storage containers and their contents.