Upright Suitcase Lid Structure for Top-Side Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suitcases do not provide a storage compartment on the top side when in an upright position, limiting their functionality.
Innovation Solution
A suitcase design featuring a cutout line on the front shell allowing a lid to flip upward, with a hinge and holding mechanism to maintain the lid open, and optional shelves for storage, enabling use as a shelving unit during travel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional suitcase structure with two shells and a hinge is used, then the suitcase can open and close for storage, but it cannot provide a storage compartment on the top side when in an upright position
Solution Approach 1:
The suitcase is divided into distinct functional segments: a front shell with an opening, a lid that can be flipped upward, and a back shell. This segmentation allows the lid to independently serve as a top storage compartment while the main body remains for traditional storage, thereby increasing versatility without overwhelming complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The lid is designed to rotate from a horizontal closing position to a vertical upright position, utilizing the vertical dimension to create additional storage space on top of the suitcase. This dimensional transformation enables the same component to serve dual purposes: closing the main compartment and providing top storage
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lid is added that can flip upward to create top storage, then storage versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional hinges and holding mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The holding mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the lid at predetermined positions without requiring manual intervention. The mechanism uses the lid's own weight and position to trigger the holding action, reducing the need for complex control systems while maintaining functionality
Solution Approach 2:
A holding mechanism acts as an intermediary between the lid and the suitcase body, providing a simple mechanical interface that enables the lid to be held in open position without requiring complex actuators or control systems. This intermediary component simplifies the overall system while achieving the desired functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If the lid is made movable to allow top storage, then storage flexibility is improved, but the reliability of the lid remaining open is reduced without a holding mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The holding mechanism serves as a reliable intermediary that secures the lid in the open position, transferring the reliability requirement from the lid's inherent stability to a dedicated mechanical holding system. This separation allows the lid to be simple and movable while the holding mechanism ensures positional stability
4Quantity of substance
If shelves are added on the lid for storage, then storage capability is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lid serves multiple functions: it closes the main compartment when horizontal, provides a surface for shelves when vertical, and can be held in intermediate positions. This multi-functionality increases storage capacity without requiring entirely separate structures, as the lid itself becomes a versatile storage platform
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf structure is designed to be adaptable to the lid's dynamic positions, allowing the shelves to be installed and used only when the lid is in the upright position. This dynamic configuration allows storage capacity to increase when needed while keeping the overall device simple when the shelves are not in use
Data Source
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AI summary
[Problem to be Solved] To realize a suitcase capable of having a storage section on top of the suitcase when the suitcase is in an upright position. [Solution to the Problem] To solve the above problem, the suitcase 1 is configured to include: an opening 21 defined by a notched line extending across the front surface, both side surfaces, and the top surface of a shell; and a lid 23 that opens and closes with respect to the opening 21 via a hinge 25 provided on the top surface of the shell, wherein the lid 23 is configured to open by flipping upward via the hinge 25, so that the inner side of the lid 23, placed on top of the top surface of the shell when opened, can be used to store items.