Adjustable Shelf Support Struts for Multi-Zone Wine Storage Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wine storage cupboards with rigid support grids fail to provide optimal support for various bottle shapes and do not allow for flexible use or upright storage, making them difficult to manufacture and use effectively.
Innovation Solution
A shelf with adjustable support struts that can be easily inserted and positioned within a frame using a one-piece, strand-shaped profile element with engagement openings, allowing for flexible configuration and vibration-free storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support struts are permanently attached to the frame, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different bottle shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support strut is divided into multiple segments that can be independently adjusted. The segmentation allows the strut to be reconfigured for different bottle shapes while maintaining structural stability through the segmented connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The support strut transitions from a static, permanently attached component to a dynamic, adjustable component. The ability to reposition and reconfigure the strut segments provides adaptability to various bottle shapes while maintaining stability during use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detachable support struts with teeth and cross members are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support strut utilizes a flexible rod element that can be inserted through the frame without requiring complex teeth and cross member mechanisms. This flexible element provides adjustability while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity compared to rigid detachable systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex tooth and cross member mechanisms are extracted and replaced with a simpler flexible rod system. The essential function of adjustability is retained while removing the unnecessary complexity of interlocking mechanical features.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex fastening pins and bores are used for detachable struts, then adjustability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible rod element can be easily inserted and removed from the frame without requiring precise alignment with bores or engagement with fastening pins. Users can simply position the rod at the desired location, making the system highly user-friendly while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible rod system allows users to self-adjust the support positions without requiring specialized tools or complex assembly procedures. The simplicity of insertion and removal enables end-users to perform adjustments themselves.
4Manufacturing precision
If support struts are fixed in position, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible rod element tolerates dimensional variations and does not require precise manufacturing tolerances for positioning features. The flexibility of the rod allows it to conform to slight variations in frame dimensions, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining functional precision.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The supply cabinet (1) has a frame (2) with an engagement contour, in which a supporting strut is inserted detachably and with variable arrangement. The supporting strut is provided with a complementary engaging element. The engaging element is designed complementary to the engagement contour. The supply cabinet has two climate zones which are independent from each other and are thermally or climatically separated from each other. The frame is inserted in each of the climate zones. The frame is mounted detachably on a telescopic rail mechanism (8).