Adjustable Hanging File Folder Frame with Wireframe Leg Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hanging file systems lack stability and rigidity, making it difficult to handle heavy files, and vertical filing systems face issues with paper retention and accessibility due to the design limitations of pocket folders.
Innovation Solution
A frame system with adjustable length and width, featuring transverse and longitudinal segments with slots and bridging rails, wireframe leg elements, and deflectable sidewalls to provide structural support and prevent leg ejection, along with L-shaped slots and rails for smooth folder hook engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid frame structure is used to provide stability, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different drawer sizes is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple segments including transverse segments, longitudinal segments, and bridging rails that can be independently positioned. The longitudinal segments include spaced apart transverse segments with slots that receive bridging rails, allowing the frame to be segmented and reconfigured for different drawer dimensions while maintaining structural integrity through the interconnected segment design.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates adjustable and movable components rather than fixed rigid connections. The bridging rails can be positioned at different locations within the slots of the longitudinal segments, and the leg elements can be adjusted in position, transforming the frame from a static rigid structure to a dynamic adaptable system that maintains strength while fitting various drawer sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame is made adjustable to fit different drawers, then adaptability is improved, but structural stability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The bridging rails are nested within the slots of the longitudinal segments, with the rails fitting into the slot openings. This nesting arrangement allows the rails to be securely positioned at various locations along the slots while maintaining a stable connected structure. The leg elements are similarly nested within recesses in the transverse segments, providing adjustable positioning without compromising overall frame stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The slots act as intermediary elements between the longitudinal segments and bridging rails, mediating the connection in a way that allows adjustment while maintaining stability. The slots provide a controlled interface that guides and secures the bridging rails, enabling adaptability without creating weak points in the structural connection.
3Reliability
If vertical filing pockets are made deep to improve paper retention, then paper retention is improved, but accessibility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making pockets deeper to improve retention, the invention inverts the approach by using frictional engagement between the folder sidewalls and paper edges, and by positioning the pockets so that the folder body provides the retention mechanism rather than pocket depth. The horizontal orientation allows papers to be retained through friction and contact with the folder structure while maintaining easy accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The pocket folders utilize flexible sidewalls that can conform to and frictionally engage with paper edges. The flexible nature of the folder material allows it to provide effective paper retention through friction and elastic deformation rather than relying on deep rigid pockets, thereby maintaining both retention and accessibility.
4Ease of operation
If pocket folders are designed for lateral access to improve paper removal, then accessibility is improved, but paper retention is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the orientation parameter of the folders from vertical to horizontal, which fundamentally alters the retention mechanism. In horizontal orientation, paper retention is achieved through friction between the paper edges and folder sidewalls, and through the paper resting on the folder bottom, rather than through vertical pocket depth. This parameter change allows both good retention and accessibility to be achieved simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
A hanging file folder frame is disclosed in several embodiments one of which is constructed of three segments. Two frames are joined together by rails. The frame includes a slot of a particular profile and the rails have a similar profile to slide into the slots. On the bottom of the frame are recesses sized to receive a portion of a wireframe leg. The leg is prevented from being ejected from the frame by a spanning flange which bridges part of the recess and confines a part of the leg between the recess walls and the flange.