Tool Box Pivot Mechanism for Wear Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tool boxes experience wear and tear of pivots and blocks due to frequent use, leading to improper closure or opening when these components break.
Innovation Solution
A tool box design featuring pivotably connected parts with recessed areas, slidably connected rails and slides, and a locking assembly that includes stop features and parallel passages to enhance durability and secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pivots and blocks are used for connecting tool box parts, then the tool box can be assembled and disassembled, but the pivots and blocks are easily worn out due to impact and frequent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot connection is divided into two separate components: a pivot block fixed to one part and a pivot hole in the other part. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and more durable, eliminating the need for complex pivot mechanisms that are prone to wear.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using traditional pivots that rotate within blocks (which cause wear), the design inverts the approach by having blocks with pivot holes that receive protruding pivots. This inversion eliminates relative rotational movement between the pivot and block, preventing wear while maintaining the hinge functionality.
2Reliability
If traditional locking assemblies are used, then tools can be secured, but the overall structure becomes more complex with more components that can fail
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly integrates multiple functions into a unified structure where locking lugs and locking holes work together as a single mechanism. The locking lugs protrude from one part and engage with locking holes in the other part, creating a secure connection without requiring separate locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot blocks serve dual functions: they provide the pivot hole for hinge movement and simultaneously incorporate locking lugs for securing the tool box. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components while maintaining both hinge and locking capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool box includes a first part and a second part, and the first and second parts are pivotably connected to each other by a pivotal portion located at the first side of each of the first and second parts. A locking assembly is connected to the second side of each of the first and second parts. The pivotal portion includes two blocks on the first part and each block has a pivot extending therefrom. The second part has two rails and two slides are slidably along the two rails. Each slide has a groove in which the rail is slidably received. Each slide has a passage, and each of the pivots is removably inserted into the passage corresponding thereto to easily assemble or dis-assemble the first and second parts.