This Article takes an In-depth look at Carrying Cases
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Throughout history, dating back to the Egyptians and even earlier, society has crafted cases to transport specific valuables. Carrying cases are ubiquitous, typically found in homes, stored in garages, tucked away in basements, or perched on shelves. These versatile items serve numerous transportation purposes. In today's world of laptops and tablets, carrying cases are especially prevalent, notably within educational settings. Although they're a common find, pinning down their exact definition is a challenge.
In Roman times, the elite elevated the carrying case concept by employing special bearers devoted to safeguarding their precious items. These unique servants fulfilled dual roles – they ensured gentle care of belongings and shielded them from potential thieves. It remains uncertain whether these carriers were selectively chosen or picked randomly, but it is likely that such roles were considered honorary positions.
Despite modern portrayals like those in Disney’s Toy Story 2, the idea of special care for carrying cases has been preserved through the ages. For valuable shipments, customers can insure against loss or damage. Scientific tools, cherished antiques, and essential family or business items are placed in specifically designed cases for protection and safe transit. Although the 21st century lacks dedicated servants to carry valuables, ample protective measures now exist that effectively serve the same purpose.
When considering the subject of carrying cases, interpretations vary widely based on personal perspectives. Gun enthusiasts, for example, rely on specialized portable cases to securely store and transport firearms like guns, rifles, or revolvers. Such cases must adhere to specified standards to be suitable for any firearm type. A modern intriguing example is a case crafted for a samurai sword, requiring exceptional care for the blade.
The broad definition of a carrying case typically converges on the term “care.” When selecting a case to protect possessions, the key factor is its ability to endure environmental conditions and safeguard valuables. Whether the case is for clothing or musical instruments, it must conform to the specific criteria set by its user. The meaning of carrying case varies with its users, ranging from construction workers and sports players to prominent leaders and business professionals. In every scenario, the requirements are tailored to the user’s specific needs and applications.
The variety and types of carrying cases is endless and changes every day. Innovations, inventions, and prototypes are constantly being developed requiring fabricated cases to transport them. To gain a full understanding of the world of carrying cases, it is helpful to look at some of the common types that are available on the market and online.
These cases are used to protect technical equipment that could be a calculator or sensitive chronometer. They can be made using two possible designs. One type of design has a clear sheet of plastic that makes the instrument visible to the user but keeps it protected. Another form has an easily removed zipper cover that holds the instrument but allows it to be used while still in the case. Specialty cases are available at an extra cost that can exactly fit a precision instrument.
Heavy-duty cases, constructed without metal or plastic, feature robust double stitching combined with foam or plastic padding for added durability. To enhance their protective capabilities, these cases often include metal corners that reinforce their structure. They are specifically designed to safeguard fragile and delicate equipment, maintaining their form even under the toughest conditions.
Divider cases are designed to transport multiple items within a single case, with each compartment padded to securely accommodate fragile or delicate equipment. These cases are particularly valuable for transporting technical gear that needs to be assembled, ensuring each component remains protected and organized.
This type of carrying case has become very popular in this age of laptop computers. Carrying a computer in a metal or hard surface case can do as much damage as dropping it. Though designed to protect electronic equipment, soft sided briefcases have the same type of organizational conveniences as normal briefcases with the extra benefit of padded protection.
Foam insert cases are similar to divider cases with the exception that the dividing material is more firm and solid but pliable enough to protect any type of instrumentation. The design of foam insert cases depends on the desires of the user. Customers provide either the dimensions of what they wish to ship or a description. The foam is cut to the exact specifications and measurements. This type of case is helpful when the case may have to endure rough handling.
The effectiveness of foam inserts hinges on their custom fit, tailored to the exact dimensions of the items they protect. An essential aspect of their production is choosing the appropriate type of foam, which can be either polyethylene or polyurethane. For electronic equipment and devices, the foam must also be designed to minimize static interference.
Years ago, engineers and scientists used plastic pocket protectors to shield their shirt pockets from pens and pencils. Today’s equivalent is the pouch case, designed for small instruments. These modern pouch cases can be stored inside larger computer bags or briefcases, offering an additional layer of protection for delicate items.
While traditional backpacks might not always be considered carrying cases, they have evolved into versatile carry-alls, especially for students. Unlike the past when students only needed a textbook and notebook, today's backpacks are equipped to hold a comprehensive array of items. They conveniently fit everything needed for modern education. Additionally, backpacks are utilized by repair professionals to transport their tools and by businesspeople for carrying their computers and notepads.
A separate article would be required to explore the many types of purses, from large handbags to small clutch purses. However, it is reasonable to include purses under the broader definition of carrying cases, given their role in transporting personal items.
The type of gun carrying case depends on the size and type of weapon being transported. This type of case can be soft sided with a foam interior or have a hard plastic or metal exterior with a padded interior. Licensed gun users are aware of the rules regarding this type of case and strictly adhere to those regulations. Soft sided padded cases are popular for carrying rifles and shotguns while small hard sided cases seem to be the choice for people owning pistols or handguns. Neither of these is a general rule. What is evident with all people who enjoy guns, handguns, shotguns, and rifles is the time and effort they take to ensure safe storage and carrying of their weapon.
Commercially available carrying cases are readily accessible both online and in retail stores. However, in technical and specialized manufacturing sectors, standard cases often fall short for unique and unconventional needs. Such situations necessitate custom-designed cases that adhere to specific standards. When ordering a specialty case, it's crucial to select the right manufacturer, which involves thorough research and data collection. Key factors must be considered to determine the most suitable producer for a specialized case.
Aluminum cases are lightweight, durable, and perfect for storing, protecting, and transporting sensitive items. Their combination of lightness and high durability makes aluminum a popular choice for business and industrial applications. Given their versatility, most carrying case manufacturers offer a variety of aluminum cases. These cases come in a range of sizes, from compact briefcases to large options suitable for shipping.
ATA cases, also known as road cases or flight cases, are designed to safeguard motion picture equipment, production gear, musical instruments, and other sensitive items that need to be transported between locations. These cases are available in various sizes, from custom-designed cases for individual items to large cases that accommodate the needs of an entire production company.
Catalog cases with a hard outer shell are typically manufactured using a plastic injection molding process. The heated plastic is injected into the mold that matches the dimensions of each panel of the case, and after the mold cools and cures the various parts are assembled. In the final stages of the production process, handles and clasps are added. These finishing parts can be made out of metal or the same kind of plastic used to construct the case.
Computer cases provide protection for computers and laptops during shipping, storage and transportation. While many computer cases manufacturers provide stock sizes for computer cases with standard dimensions, industrial designers and engineers also fulfill requests for custom carrying cases created for specific items such as monitors and laptops.
An equipment case is used in many industries to store and protect valuable instruments during transportation. When the specialized piece of equipment is not being used, it is kept in the case to prevent damage or exposure to harmful materials. Audio and video equipment for concerts and performances is usually locked inside an equipment case while it is being transported to a venue. This keeps it clean which prevents the unit from malfunctioning, and the lock on the case deters people from stealing the device.
Out of all types of cases, Hard cases provide the most protection. Hard cases can be made from materials such as titanium, wood, plastic, and aluminum. These cases are used for a multitude of applications, from travel and shipping to protecting everyday items. Hard cases are designed to house items such as cosmetics, tools, glasses, medical equipment, electronics, and instruments. Hard cases are highly recommended for the storage of fragile, valuable, or breakable items in order to ensure they travel from place to place without getting damaged.
Molded plastic cases can be custom-made for specific kinds of tools and jobs. When on the job, you want to be able to reach into your case and grab things quickly. This can only happen if they are laid out in a way that makes intuitive sense to you. Such an orderly system leads to greater efficiency, and in any cases cuts down on the amount of time you must spend rummaging around inside.
A portfolio case is a large portable case that can be used to carry pieces of art, posters, and other large prints that would not fit in a standard file folder or briefcase. Keeping these items in a portfolio case keeps them from being damaged or wrinkled during transportation. Another type of case that is used to hold a notepad, pens and business cards is also sometimes referred to as a portfolio case. This is usually made out of leather and may have the owner’s name or business name engraved on the front. These types of portfolio cases are used by professionals like lawyers and businesspeople to take notes at meetings or store small amounts of files.
Presentation cases come in many sizes and most are made with a hard exterior to protect the valuable contents inside. Latches are fitted on to the case so that it can be tightly sealed. An extendable handle and wheels may be added to make it easier to move the case by rolling it along the ground. The interior of a presentation case usually has some kind of lining or cushion to pad objects placed inside and protect them from being scratched during movement. The foam inside a case can even be custom designed to match the exact dimensions of the product inside so that there is absolutely no room for movement.
Road cases are a type of carrying case used to protect sensitive equipment or instruments as you carry them in transit. They are an indispensible investment for anyone who values their equipment or instrument. Road cases are also commonly known as flight cases or ATA cases.
A rolling case is designed for storage and transportation of various kinds of equipment. Small wheels are attached to the bottom to roll heavy items, and there is usually an extendable handle at the top. Musicians use rolling cases when they travel to move instruments and equipment like amps. These items are bulky, but a rolling case makes them easy to stack and move through an airport without damaging what is inside. Rolling cases are also a common accessory at trade shows for all kinds of industries because they can be used to bring products and large displays into the trade show venue.
Sample cases are available in various sizes, typically featuring a hard exterior to protect their contents. They are equipped with latches to ensure a secure seal. For ease of transport, many sample cases include an extendable handle and wheels for rolling. These cases are widely used across industries that need to showcase products, including agriculture, construction, fashion, military, sporting goods, and engineering.
Shipping cases are designed to securely hold and protect a wide variety of items during transportation. They play a crucial role in shielding their contents from shock, vibration, moisture, dust, and other potential hazards. Due to their essential function and high demand, shipping cases are available in numerous sizes, shapes, and materials.
A storm case is a heavy duty equipment case that is designed to protect valuable devices from various kinds of damage. These rugged cases are utilized in applications ranging from recreational photography to military device transportation. They are so widely used due to their durability and ability to protect fragile or sensitive equipment in essentially any conditions. During transportation or when not in use, sensitive equipment can be easily stowed in a storm case to keep off contaminants and harmful materials as well as to protect the item from scratches and large impacts.
Tool cases are designed to hold, protect and organize various tools and equipment. They are available in standard, specialty and custom designs, sizes and colors in order to accommodate a wide range of tools and requirements. Many tool cases have hard outer shells that protect the tools inside from water, dirt, drops and other sources of damage. The interiors may be lined with soft foam or they could have hard plastic inserts that hold the tools in place.
To transport their products and displays to a show, company representatives use trade show cases. These cases come in a wide variety of sizes, but they are great for transporting large objects because their rigid exterior protects the content from damage. The exterior is usually constructed using heavy duty plastic or aluminum that can have a label or business logo attached to it. Small wheels are fitted to the bottom of the case so that heavy items can be rolled along the ground, and there are usually handles somewhere on the case to make it easier to lift or pull. If the objects inside could easily be scratched or damaged, a foam lining is installed to keep them from moving around during transportation.
Transit cases are extremely durable cases that are used to transport sensitive electronic, scientific or military equipment across rough terrains or through difficult conditions. Transit cases come in a wide variety of standard and custom configurations and are recognized by their hard, waterproof outer shell and their shock-absorbing interiors. These heavy duty cases may have a handle or shoulder strap for carrying.
A Wheeled cases is the perfect solution for all kinds of business-related travel. Wheeled cases are made in small, personal sizes, and they can be used to store electronics, like laptops, and important documents and materials on the way to a meeting. The wheels on the bottom make it easy to pull the case through an airport or along a sidewalk. An extendable handle on the top makes it easy to grasp the case, and another handle attached to the main body of the case enables you to lift it up off the ground when necessary.
The few carrying cases listed here cover only a small number of the types being sold. Variations in these specially designed cases covers a wide spectrum of designs, sizes, specialties, and requirements. For the casual retail customer, it is a simple matter of going to a store or online and choosing a case that fits their situation. For engineers, scientists, and technical people, the choice of a carrying case is more complicated and involves the consideration of multiple factors. Sophisticated carrying case
Depending on how specialized a carrying case is determines the specifications for its manufacturing. The Air Transport Association (ATA) was founded in the 1930’s by a group of airlines to set standards for United States carriers and support the air traffic industry. It established criteria for the manufacture and construction of acceptable cases, which includes the type of material, thicknesses, repairability, and latches. Included in the requirements is a set of tests that a case has to pass to meet ATA specifications. Though the ATA has established the conditions for permissible cases, most manufacturers produce their cases far above the basic requirements.
Carrying cases are made from a variety of materials that include aluminum, plastic, or certain light weight metals. Recently, soft flexible cases have become popular and are made from several different types of fabric, which include heavy duty fabrics such as nylon and neoprene rubber. Plastic cases are blown or rotary molded and may contain a cloth or foam padding as a liner.
Neoprene, or polychloroprene rubber, is waterproof and exceptionally sturdy. One of its outstanding characteristics is its non-conductivity making it perfect for the transport of electronics. Also, it is impermeable serving as excellent protection from wear and the weather. Carrying cases made from neoprene have a soft pliable exterior that is capable of taking abuse yet retaining its shape and protecting its contents.
Nylon carrying cases are crafted from industrial-strength nylon designed to withstand the rigors of air travel. Typically used for carrying audio and visual equipment, these cases feature padded interiors to safeguard speakers, mixers, and similar items. Producers offer a wide range of sizes, ensuring durability. Nylon, available in various colors, is ideal for both the exterior and interior padding of cases. Notable advantages of nylon include its tear resistance and its ability to maintain its shape even after years of use.
Leather carrying cases are a classic choice with a timeless appeal. The value of a leather case largely depends on the quality of the leather used. Full-grain leather, which retains its natural thickness and grain, is considered the best due to its aesthetic appeal and enhanced strength and durability. Leather cases made from full-grain leather are long-lasting and maintain their shape but come with a higher price tag. More affordable options are available in lower-grade leather, which, while economical, lack the endurance, appearance, and quality of full-grain leather.
The selection process for a specialty case starts with determining the size and shape of the item to be carried. Each item requires careful consideration, making the interior of the case a primary focus. Typically, the exterior is made from solid materials, as fabrics may not offer sufficient durability or protection. For electronic items, it's important to consider whether the case has conductive properties. Adding foam or rubber lining can provide extra protection, while using nonconductive materials for the exterior enhances overall safety.
Foam, rubber, and soft fabrics are excellent choices for the interior of a case. For highly technical devices, custom-shaped rubber or foam that fits the equipment’s dimensions provides added protection and prevents shifting during transport. Case manufacturers offer a range of interior construction solutions and often provide design kits to assist customers in creating the ideal case setup.
Designing a case can take several approaches. Often, customers have a clear vision of how they want their case to appear, and producers are eager to bring these ideas to life. This challenge drives their business and fuels their creativity. Alternatively, customers can ask manufacturers to design a case from scratch. In this scenario, the manufacturer is responsible for creating a prototype, which the customer reviews and adjusts. This process can be time-consuming, involving multiple discussions and revisions.
In case design, certain aspects are often overlooked because they appear minor or inconsequential. These details might include the handle, hinge types, locking mechanisms, material durability, and other seemingly small elements. However, just like any business project, the success of case design depends on considering the entire picture and ensuring that every detail contributes to the overall functionality and quality.
Carrying cases tend to be things we overlook, because they are so prevalent, common, and easily available. For the normal retail consumer, purchasing a carrying case may not require much planning or thought. When cases become specialized to carry musical instruments, technical equipment, or precious items, thought and planning has to be put into the purchase. A well designed and solidly produced carrying case can save on the loss of irreplaceable items.
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