shelf
The shelf design with invertible frames and adjustable components addresses flexibility and cost issues, enhancing user convenience and inventory management by allowing customizable height adjustments and part standardization.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CAINZ CORP
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-09
AI Technical Summary
Conventional prefabricated shelves lack flexibility in adjusting height and configuration, leading to high manufacturing costs and inventory management burdens due to non-standardized parts, and are limited by installation location restrictions.
A shelf design featuring a pair of frames with asymmetrical connecting parts, a detachable and extendable connecting member, and storage components that can be inverted and adjusted in height, allowing for flexible configuration and part standardization.
Enables flexible shelf configuration and reduced manufacturing costs through part standardization, improving user convenience and inventory management efficiency.
Smart Images

Figure 2026115826000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a prefabricated shelf, and more particularly to a shelf having a structure that allows the frame to be used upside down.
Background Art
[0002] Some conventional prefabricated shelves are configured by combining a plurality of members and are designed to facilitate installation and assembly. In addition, technologies that enable adjustment of height and storage space have also been proposed.
[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which members constituting a shelf are detachable, thereby enhancing the convenience of assembly work. However, this technique mainly focuses on ease of assembly and does not disclose specific measures for flexibly adjusting the height and configuration of the shelf.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0004]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0005] Since Patent Document 1 is designed on the premise of using the frame in a single direction, there is a problem that it cannot flexibly respond to restrictions on the installation location. In addition, in conventional shelves, it is necessary to design and manufacture different parts for each use, and since parts commonalization has not been achieved, the manufacturing cost is high and the burden of inventory management is also large.
[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a highly convenient shelf that can adjust the height positions of the connecting members and the storage members by using the frame upside down, and can flexibly change the configuration of the shelf according to the installation location and the size of the stored items. [Means for solving the problem]
[0007] The present invention, which solves the above problems, is as follows [1] to [7].
[0008] [1] A shelf comprising a pair of left and right frames, a connecting member connecting the frames together, and a storage member supported by the connecting member, wherein the frames have connecting parts for connecting the connecting member, and the connecting parts are arranged to change the height position of the connecting member when the frames are used upside down.
[0009] [2] The shelf according to [1], wherein the frame has mounting surfaces at both ends in the vertical direction, and the connecting portion is provided at different distances from the vertical center of the frame.
[0010] [3] The shelf according to [1] or [2], wherein the storage member is a plurality of shelves, the connecting member is a rod-shaped member that connects the frames together, and the plurality of shelves are detachably attached to the connecting member.
[0011] [4] The shelf according to [3], wherein the connecting member is configured to be extendable and retractable.
[0012] [5] The shelf according to [3] or [4], wherein the plurality of shelves have fitting portions, and the fitting portions are detachably attached by fitting with the connecting member.
[0013] [6] The shelf according to [1] or [2], wherein the storage member is a storage box and the connecting member has a sliding mechanism.
[0014] [7] The shelf according to [6], wherein the connecting member is frame-shaped, the sliding mechanism has a pair of parallel rail members, and the storage box has a slide guide and a guide rib on its bottom surface, and is configured such that the lower surface of the rail member and the upper surface of the guide rib are in contact. [Effects of the Invention]
[0015] According to the present invention, by using the frame body upside down, the height positions of the connecting members and the storage members can be adjusted, so that the configuration of the shelf can be flexibly changed according to the installation location and the stored items. In addition, by sharing parts, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost and improve the efficiency of inventory management.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0016] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of a shelf according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view showing a state in which a part of a plurality of shelf boards is removed in the shelf according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a side view of the frame body of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of the shelf according to the first embodiment of the present invention turned upside down. [Figure 5] It is an exploded perspective view showing the connection part between the frame body and the connecting member of the present invention. [Figure 6] It is a perspective view of a shelf according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] It is a perspective view showing a state in which a storage box is slid in the shelf according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view of a connecting member according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A showing the sliding mechanism in the shelf according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view showing the bottom surface of the storage box in the shelf according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
Modes for Carrying Out the Invention
[0017] Hereinafter, the shelves according to each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each of the embodiments shown below is merely an example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0018] ≪First Embodiment≫ <Configuration> Figure 1 shows the usage configuration of shelf 1 according to this embodiment.
[0019] As shown in Figure 2, the shelf 1 according to this embodiment comprises a pair of left and right frame bodies 2, a connecting member 3 that connects the frame bodies 2 together, and a storage member 4 that is supported by the connecting member 3.
[0020] As shown in Figure 3, the frame 2 is a frame-shaped member having vertical frame portions 21 extending in the vertical direction and horizontal frame portions 22 connecting the vertical frame portions 21. In this embodiment, the vertical frame portions 21 and the horizontal frame portions 22 are integrally constructed.
[0021] The frame 2 is provided with multiple connecting parts 23 for connecting the connecting members 3. The connecting parts 23 are formed as circular or rectangular through holes and have a structure into which the ends of the connecting members 3 can be inserted.
[0022] The shapes of the connecting portion 23 and the ends of the connecting member 3 are arranged symmetrically vertically. Specifically, the shape of the hole in the connecting portion 23 is vertically symmetrical, and the ends of the connecting member 3 also have a vertically symmetrical shape that fits this hole. This structure makes it possible to easily attach the connecting member 3 to the connecting portion 23 even when the frame 2 is inverted vertically.
[0023] The frame 2 has mounting surfaces 241 and 242 at both ends in the vertical direction.
[0024] The mounting surface 241 is configured as a flat surface integrally formed along the lower surface of the horizontal frame portion 22, without the vertical frame portion 21 protruding. When the frame body 2 is installed, the mounting surface 241 has a planar structure that widens in the width direction, and plays a role in ensuring ground contact and stability.
[0025] The mounting surface 242 is a plane formed by a portion of the end of the vertical frame section 21 protruding outward. This protruding portion is located away from the lower surface of the horizontal frame section 22, creating a space below the frame body 2. This lower space can be used, for example, to effectively utilize the space below the stored items, to improve ventilation, or to flexibly adapt to the installation environment.
[0026] Therefore, by inverting the frame 2, either the mounting surface 241 or the mounting surface 242 can be selectively installed (Figure 4).
[0027] Since the mounting surfaces 241 and 242 are integrally formed as part of the frame 2, it is possible to achieve stable installation while maintaining the strength and durability of the frame 2.
[0028] The connecting parts 23 are positioned at different distances from the vertical center of the vertical frame part 21. This asymmetrical arrangement changes the relative positions of the connecting parts 23 when the frame is inverted, resulting in a structure where the mounting height of the connecting member 3 differs. According to the present invention, the shelf configuration can be flexibly changed according to the available space at the installation location and the size of the items to be stored, thereby improving user convenience.
[0029] Furthermore, the connecting portion 23 includes configurations where the distance from the installation surface 241 is different from the distance from the installation surface 242. That is, the connecting portion 23 is provided away from the center of the vertical frame portion 21. The position of the connecting portion 23 provided in this manner changes when the unit is inverted vertically, improving user convenience.
[0030] As shown in Figure 5, the connecting member 3 is a rod-shaped member and is detachably attached to the connection portion 23 of the frame 2.
[0031] The end of the connecting member 3 is provided with a threaded portion 31. By inserting this threaded portion 31 into the connecting portion 23 and fastening it with the fixing member 32, the connecting member 3 can be fixed to the frame 2.
[0032] Furthermore, the connecting member 3 has an expandable and retractable structure, allowing the width of the shelf 1 to be adjusted.
[0033] The storage member 4 is composed of multiple shelves and has a structure that allows it to be detachably attached to the connecting member 3. A fitting portion 41 is provided at the end of the storage member 4, and the storage member 4 is fixed in place when the fitting portion 41 is fitted onto the connecting member 3.
[0034] The fitting portion 41 has a U-shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the connecting member 3, and is structured to partially or completely enclose the outer circumference of the connecting member 3. This structure allows the storage member 4 to be easily removed and reinstalled without the use of tools.
[0035] <Implementation Method> The following describes how to use shelf 1 according to this embodiment.
[0036] First, the user selects a location to install shelf 1. At this time, considering the height and width of the installation location, the pair of left and right frame units 2 are positioned in the appropriate orientation. Each frame unit 2 is provided with multiple connecting parts 23, and the arrangement of these connecting parts 23 can be changed by inverting the frame unit 2. This feature allows users to select the optimal height configuration depending on the installation environment and the type of items being stored.
[0037] The fitting portion 41 has a U-shape that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the connecting member 3, and is structured to partially or completely enclose the outer circumference of the connecting member 3. This structure allows the storage member 4 to be easily removed and reinstalled without the use of tools.
[0038] After attaching the connecting member 3, the storage member 4 is attached to the connecting member 3. When using a shelf board as the storage member 4, the fitting portion 41 provided at the end of the shelf board can be fitted into the connecting member 3 and easily secured by simply pushing it in lightly.
[0039] In this embodiment, the shelf 1 ensures overall stability and strength by allowing the user to adjust the position and number of connecting members 3 according to the weight and size of the stored items. Furthermore, because the shelves are easy to attach and detach, there is a high degree of freedom in installation and reconfiguration, making it possible to accommodate diverse storage needs.
[0040] ≪Second Embodiment≫ <Structure> Figure 6 shows the usage configuration of the shelf 1 according to this embodiment.
[0041] As shown in Figure 7, the shelf 1 according to this embodiment comprises a pair of left and right frame bodies 2, a connecting member 3 that connects the frame bodies 2, and a storage member 4 supported by the connecting member 3. This embodiment is characterized by the use of a storage box as the storage member 4, and by the fact that the connecting member 3 has a frame-like structure for supporting the storage box.
[0042] The same frame 2 as in the first embodiment can be used. According to this invention, parts can be standardized, enabling reductions in manufacturing costs and improved efficiency in inventory management. Furthermore, it becomes easier for users to replace or purchase additional parts, enhancing convenience.
[0043] As shown in Figure 8, in this embodiment, the connecting member 3 is configured as a frame-shaped member for supporting the storage member 4. The connecting member 3 has a pair of parallel rail members 33 and a connecting portion 34 that connects the frame bodies 2, and has a structure in which a slide guide 42 provided on the bottom surface of the storage member 4 can move back and forth along the rail members 33. This sliding mechanism allows the storage member 4 to be pulled out as needed, making it easy to put in and take out stored items.
[0044] The rail member 33 connects to the erection section 34 at both ends to form a frame. One end of the rail member 33 is open, and this open end is designed to allow the insertion of the slide guide 42. The open end has a notch at the corner in a plan view, and is designed to allow the slide guide 42 to fit smoothly. This makes it easier to install the storage member 4.
[0045] The other end of the rail member 33 is connected to and closed off by the erection section 34, and this closed end prevents the slide guide 42 from coming off the rail member 33. This structure plays a role in reliably limiting the sliding range of the storage member 4.
[0046] As shown in Figure 9, the width of the storage member 4 is designed to be narrower than the spacing between the connecting members 3. On the other hand, the length of the storage member 4 is longer than or approximately the same as the length of the horizontal frame 22 to increase the storage capacity.
[0047] The rail member 33 has an L-shaped cross-section. Furthermore, the tip portion of the rail member 33 that can contact the slide guide 42, guide rib 43, and storage member 4 is thicker than the rest of the rail member 33. This allows for smooth sliding in the front-rear direction through engagement with the slide guide 42. Additionally, to suppress vertical lifting during the movement of the slide guide 42, the guide rib 43 is positioned to contact the lower surface of the rail member 33. This ensures stable operation of the storage member 4.
[0048] As shown in Figure 10, the slide guide 42 is a pair of longitudinally extending members provided on the bottom surface of the storage member 4, and is configured to have dimensions narrower than the distance between the pair of left and right rail members 33 of the connecting member 3. The slide guide 42 has a structure that guides smooth sliding movement in the front-rear direction by contacting the rail members 33 and the slide guide 42.
[0049] Furthermore, a guide rib 43 is integrally formed on a part of the slide guide 42. The guide rib 43 is a member that protrudes substantially vertically from the lower end of the slide guide 42 toward the rail member 33 and has a structure that contacts the lower surface of the rail member 33. This suppresses vertical lifting when the storage member 4 slides in the front-rear direction, and ensures stable sliding operation.
[0050] The guide rib 43 has a shape in which its thickness gradually decreases towards the tip so that its tip does not come into contact with the rail member 33. This allows the contact area between the guide rib 43 and the rail member 33 to be appropriately adjusted, enabling the storage member 4 to slide smoothly in the front-rear direction. In addition, it makes it easier to align the storage member 4 when fitting it onto the rail member 33.
[0051] The storage member 4 is provided with a gripping portion 44 at its front end. The gripping portion 44 has a recessed shape that allows the storage member 4 to be easily pulled out by hand, and is designed to be easy for the user to grip and operate. Due to the arrangement and shape of the gripping portion 44, the storage member 4 can be slid smoothly in the front-back direction, making it easy to take out and put in items.
[0052] <Implementation Method> The following describes how to use shelf 1 according to this embodiment.
[0053] First, the user selects a location to install shelf 1. At this time, considering the height and width of the installation location, the user positions the pair of left and right frame units 2 in the appropriate orientation. Each frame unit 2 is provided with multiple connecting parts 23, and the arrangement of these connecting parts 23 can be changed by inverting the frame unit 2. This function allows for adjustment of the mounting height of the connecting members 3, enabling the user to select the optimal height configuration according to the installation environment and the type of items to be stored.
[0054] Next, the connecting member 3 is attached to the connection portion 23 of the frame 2. The connecting member 3 in this embodiment has a pair of parallel rail members 33, which are arranged symmetrically to form a frame-like structure that supports the storage member 4.
[0055] The storage member 4 is fitted onto the rail member 33 of the connecting member 3 via a slide guide 42 provided on its bottom surface. At this time, a guide rib 43 formed on the bottom surface of the storage member 4 protrudes from below the slide guide 42 toward the rail member 33 and contacts the lower surface of the rail member 33. Due to the action of this guide rib 43, the storage member 4 can perform a stable sliding motion in the front-rear direction and suppress lifting in the up-down direction.
[0056] Furthermore, the user can easily pull out the storage member 4 by grasping the gripping portion 44 provided at the front end of the storage member 4 with their hand. The gripping portion 44 has a recessed shape to enhance operability, allowing for smooth retrieval and storage of stored items.
[0057] Furthermore, the storage components 4 can be easily removed, making cleaning and replacement simple. Since users can freely select the size and shape of the storage components 4 according to their needs, the shelf 1 of this embodiment can accommodate a wide range of applications, from household to commercial use.
[0058] This embodiment not only enables efficient management of stored items, but also improves user convenience through the adoption of a sliding mechanism.
[0059] <Example of changes> In the shelf of the present invention, the embodiments described above are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.
[0060] Regarding the frame 2, it is also possible to adopt a structure in which the vertical frame section 21 and the horizontal frame section 22 are constructed as separate components and fixed together with bolts or welding. Furthermore, by making the entire frame a disassembled assembly type, it is possible to create a structure that allows for space saving during transportation and flexible assembly at the installation site.
[0061] Regarding the frame 2, the mounting surface 24 can be made of rubber or wear-resistant plastic material to absorb vibrations and prevent rattling.
[0062] The connecting portion 23 is not limited to circular or rectangular through holes; a snap-fit structure or a structure using magnets can also be adopted. Such a structure makes it possible to easily attach the connecting member 3 without using tools, thereby improving the efficiency of the assembly work.
[0063] The mounting surfaces 241 and 242 may be provided with holes for attaching adjusters, allowing for more precise adjustment of the mounting height.
[0064] Regarding the connecting member 3, in order to fit the end of the connecting member 3 into the frame 2, a snap-type structure that can be fixed without the use of tools, a clamping mechanism, or even a detachable structure using magnets can be used. Furthermore, regarding the shape of the screw portion 31, it is possible to use not only general round screws but also screws with special shapes, such as hexagonal or square shapes.
[0065] Furthermore, the overall structure of the connecting member 3 is not limited to either a rod shape or a frame shape; a structure combining multiple shapes or an extendable sliding structure may be adopted as needed. This further improves the flexibility of supporting and adjusting the height of the storage member 4.
[0066] Furthermore, the shape of the storage component 4 is not limited to shelves or storage boxes; it can also be a storage basket, a drawer-type unit, or a customizable structure tailored to a specific application. For example, a unit with a cooling function for food storage, or a dedicated tray for organizing and storing specific tools or parts, are conceivable.
[0067] The present invention can adopt a variety of structures and specifications as described above, enabling a wide range of customization to suit the installation environment and application. This flexibility contributes to expanding the range of applications in various fields, such as home, office, and commercial use. [Industrial applicability]
[0068] Because the shelves of the present invention are easy to assemble and have flexible configuration changes, they can be widely used in a variety of industrial fields, including not only home storage and office furniture, but also store display fixtures and storage equipment in logistics warehouses. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0069] 1 shelf 2 frame 21 Vertical frame section 22 Horizontal frame 23 Connection part 24 Installation surface 3 Connecting members 31 Screw part 32 Fixing member 33 Rail members 34 parts 4 Storage components 41 Fitting part 42 Slide Guide 43 Guide Ribs 44 Gripping part
Claims
1. It comprises a pair of left and right frames, a connecting member that connects the frames to each other, and a storage member that is supported by the connecting member, The frame has a connecting portion for connecting the connecting member, The aforementioned connecting portion is arranged such that the height position of the connecting member changes when the frame is used upside down.
2. The frame has mounting surfaces at both ends in the vertical direction. The shelf according to claim 1, wherein the connecting portion is provided at different distances from the vertical center of the frame.
3. The aforementioned storage member consists of multiple shelves, The connecting member is a rod-shaped member that connects the frames together. The shelf according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of shelves are detachably attached to the connecting member.
4. The shelf according to claim 3, wherein the connecting member is configured to be extendable and retractable.
5. The aforementioned multiple shelves have fitting parts, The shelf according to claim 3, wherein the fitting portion is detachably attached by fitting with the connecting member.
6. The aforementioned storage member is a storage box, The shelf according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting member has a sliding mechanism.
7. The connecting member is frame-shaped, The aforementioned slide mechanism has a pair of parallel rail members, The storage box has a slide guide and guide ribs on its bottom surface. The shelf according to claim 6, wherein the lower surface of the rail member and the upper surface of the guide rib are in contact.