Toolbox Side Sections Eccentric Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toolboxes lack sufficient storage capacity and stability for bulky and heavy items like power tools, as designs that provide stability for larger items compromise on central compartment size and side tray functionality.
Innovation Solution
The toolbox design allows side sections to pivot on an eccentric path, enabling large central storage compartments while maintaining the ability for side sections to fold out flat, using cam-surface and cam-follower mechanisms with biasing means to control the pivot path and provide a locking sensation, and a latching mechanism to ensure secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the central section is made large to store bulky items like power tools, then storage capacity for large items is improved, but the side sections cannot fold out flat onto the same surface as the central section
Solution Approach 1:
The side sections are designed to pivot along a curved eccentric path rather than a straight hinge line. This curved trajectory allows the side sections to fold out flat onto the same surface as the central section even when the central section has large storage capacity, resolving the geometric conflict between size and folding capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a cam mechanism that adds a vertical dimension to the folding motion. The cam surface and cam follower convert the simple rotational hinge motion into a complex three-dimensional eccentric path, enabling the side sections to achieve flat folding position while accommodating a large central section
2Ease of operation
If traditional hinged design is used, then side sections can fold out easily, but the sections become loose and lack stability when storing heavy items
Solution Approach 1:
A cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the hinge and the side section. The cam surface and cam follower work together to control the eccentric path, providing stability and preventing looseness while maintaining the folding capability. This intermediary mechanism transforms the simple hinge into a controlled, stable system
3Ease of manufacture
If the latch mechanism is simple, then the structure is easy to manufacture, but it cannot provide clear indication of whether the toolbox is securely closed
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism incorporates a visual indication system where the position of the latch lever or associated components changes color or position to clearly indicate whether the toolbox is securely closed or partially open. This provides immediate visual feedback to the user without complicating the basic latch structure
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
This design allows for flexible storage options, including power tools in the central section, while ensuring stability and security by preventing accidental opening and contents loss, with a locking sensation during pivot and secure latching.
Implementation Method 1
one of the sections includes a cam-surface and the other section includes a cam follower surface with biasing means, biasing the cam and cam follower together through at least part of the eccentric path
Implementation Method 2
the sections pivot on an eccentric path, enabling large central storage compartments while maintaining the ability for side sections to fold out flat
Data Source
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AI summary
A toolbox has a central section and at least one side section. The side sections are pivotally attached to the central section using a pin and slot arrangement which allows an eccentric path to be followed as the side sections pivot around the central section. This allows freedom of design of the dimensions of a central tray in the central section without obstructing pivoting of the side sections. A latch may be provided which slightly opens the side sections when it is in its unlatched position allowing a user to see that the sides are not properly latched.