Modular Guide Rail Case Connection System Ideas

[mac sparrow]

Hello,

I'd like to build a modular ish guide rail case from wood which can be added or subtracted to depending on what I want to carry to site.  For example

• 2 x 1900mm rails in one case
• 2 x 140mm rails and 1 x 800mm in a separate case
• 2 x TSO guide rail squares and parallel guides in a separate case
• ...etc you get the point

The problem I'm having is visualising how to connect these cases together quickly, especially when some of the cases will be different lengths.  I am considering embedding magnets on one side of the case and then strips of metal on the other side so the system can be quickly connected/disconnected but then overall weight becomes an issue and I'd have to use very strong magnets and thicker plywood.  I'm trying to get away with using 9mm or 12mm ply to make these cases.

Clasps or straps might be quick enough, maybe threading holes into the sides and driving long threaded screws through the holes which would be in standard locations on each case.  Velcro possibly but then that doesn't play well with sawdust in general.

Hard to explain, I hope it was clear enough.

Thank you very much

 

[tofu]

Toggle latches seem like the cheapest tool-less option

 

[RustE]

Take a look at how adjustable ski cases are set-up. There’s basically a rib that rides is a groove with through holes in both sections that accept a hitch pin or padlock.

 

[mac sparrow]

[member=63201]RustE[/member] I can picture what you mean but can't seem to find anything on Google images easily.  Would you have a link to give me a head start please?

Thank you

 

[RustE]

[member=26410]mackenzie[/member] photos of a case I have below.

I possibly mis-understood the original post.  Thought you wanted an adjustable length case.  On a second read, I'm thinking that you want to connect two or more cases of different sizes.

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]

 

[mac sparrow]

[member=63201]RustE[/member] thank you, yes that's the type of expandable (length ways) ski case I found on images, as you say what I'm trying to do is join cases together along their length rather than end to end.

Your suggestion isn't ruled out entirely though, having a hole in a standard location for the different cases would still afford the ability to put a pin or screw through the hole, I'm still thinking a latch is better.  I've thought about wooden dovetails as well but I think the friction would become burdensome if joining regularly.  A bit of paste wax would certainly help the friction issue when sliding.

 

[RustE]

[member=26410]mackenzie[/member] how about another random idea ...

Attach a footman loop (not sure on other names of these) to each case.
[attachimg=1]

Use a strap to connect the different cases.
[attachimg=2]

Photos from Lee Valley Tools and Strapworks

 

[MikkelF]

What about adding domino holes on the sides to connect and align them and then use straps or buckles (like TSO uses for connecting railsquares to the rail to keep them locked together (You could also use domino connectors, but I suspect that might be more of a hazzle to deal with on daily basis). Then add some handles to all of them, so it doesn't matter which one is in the middle. Maybe use fabric for handles that is routed to be co-planer with the surface, so you can stack them if needed.

 

[mac sparrow]

Thanks [member=63201]RustE[/member] and [member=69715]MikkelF[/member], some good ideas.

It feels like it should be so simple, I don't believe I'm over thinking it but it's possible.  As far as co-Planer, I'm not sure I have the material depth if I'm going to use 9mm or 12mm plywood but I'm not ruling it out.

Thank you again