Adjustable Parts Drawer Dividers for Reconfigurable Bin Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parts storage drawers require the removal of partitions to adjust bin sizes, leading to potential scattering and mixing of parts, and available solutions often have fixed bin sizes or require removal of spacers.
Innovation Solution
A parts storage system with adjustable bins that allow size modification without removing dividers or partitions, utilizing integral insert trays with locking segments and detachable dividers that can be incrementally adjusted and retain part identification cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If partitions are removed to adjust bin sizes, then bin size flexibility is improved, but parts become scattered or mixed
Solution Approach 1:
The partition is divided into multiple detachable divider segments that can be independently repositioned. Each divider can be removed and reattached at different locations along the partition, allowing bin size adjustment without completely removing the partition structure. This segmentation maintains parts organization while providing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition system transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. Dividers are designed to be movable along the partition with retention mechanisms that allow easy repositioning. This enables the bin sizes to be dynamically adjusted based on storage needs while maintaining secure part retention at each position.
2Ease of manufacture
If drawer insert trays with fixed bin sizes are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different storage needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The insert tray is designed with modular components including detachable dividers and retention mechanisms that allow reconfiguration. The base tray can be manufactured simply, while the adjustable divider components add flexibility without significantly complicating the overall manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition and divider system serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables bin size adjustment, and maintains parts organization. The same partition structure supports various divider configurations to accommodate different storage requirements, making the insert tray universally adaptable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dividers are removed to change bin configuration, then bin size flexibility is improved, but parts retention and organization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Retention mechanisms are pre-installed on the partition structure before dividers are positioned. These mechanisms prepare the partition to securely hold dividers at various positions, ensuring parts retention is maintained throughout the reconfiguration process without requiring removal of the partition structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A parts storage drawer system is described having part bin dividers that are easily adjusted by sliding the divider along a rail or divider enables changing of divider location without removal of the divider from the drawer. A parts identification card may be coupled to a divider, such as by insertion into a slot within a divider. Furthermore, a parts identification card may be inserted into and removed from a divider without removing or repositioning the divider. A parts storage drawer system may be an insert tray that may comprise one or more molded parts. The parts storage drawer system provides an organizational method for the storage, separation, identification and availability of a variety of parts through the utilization of mechanical means, including dividers having clips that extend over partitions or rails for coupling thereto. Partitions and/or rails may include a plurality of locking segments for detachably attaching dividers.