Adjustable Shelving Rack With One-Hand Tray Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shelving systems in delivery vehicles have fixed tray spacing that cannot be adjusted according to the size and shape of items, leading to inadequate or excessive space, and the locking mechanisms are difficult to operate, especially when carrying other items, causing items to shift or fall during transport.
Innovation Solution
A shelving system with movable side members, adjustable slides, and a handle mechanism that allows containers to translate between fixed and sliding orientations, enabling customizable spacing and easy operation with one hand, even when carrying other items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If trays are equally spaced on the rack according to fixed rack configuration, then the rack structure is simple and stable, but the spacing cannot be adjusted to accommodate items of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The rack structure incorporates movable trays that can slide along the rack bars, transforming the static fixed-spacing system into a dynamic adjustable-spacing system. The trays can be positioned at different locations along the rack while maintaining structural stability through engagement with the rack bars.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack is divided into multiple independent tray units that can be individually adjusted along the rack bars. Each tray acts as an independent segment that can be positioned separately, allowing flexible spacing configuration without requiring redesign of the entire rack structure.
2Ease of operation
If locking mechanisms are made small and remote to save space, then the device size is reduced, but accessing and operating the locking mechanism becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is extended beyond the front face of the tray into a more accessible spatial dimension. This extension allows the handle to be reached and operated from the front of the vehicle without requiring access to the rear or side areas, making it accessible even when the driver is carrying items.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended handle acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the user's hand and the locking mechanism. By providing this extended interface, the user can operate the locking mechanism without directly accessing the compact rear area where the mechanism is located.
3Ease of operation
If trays are made to slide freely on the rack for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but items may shift or fall during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating through the handle action. When the handle is pushed or pulled, it automatically engages or disengages the locking mechanism without requiring separate manual intervention. This allows the tray to be quickly secured or released while maintaining item stability during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism provides preliminary restraint against the harmful effect of item displacement during vehicle movement. By securing the tray to the rack before movement occurs, the system prevents items from shifting or falling off during acceleration, braking, or turning.
4Ease of operation
If handles are designed to open in only one direction, then the structure is simple, but it becomes difficult to open when carrying items that block the opening direction
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed with bidirectional operability, allowing it to function in multiple ways - it can be pushed forward to open the tray, pulled backward to open it, or manipulated from different positions. This multi-functionality ensures the handle can be operated regardless of which hand is free or what position the user is in when carrying items.
Data Source
AI summary
A shelving system includes first and second side members. A cross member is coupled to the side members. A guide member is coupled to the cross member such that the guide member is movable relative to the cross member. A container including a rail is coupled to the guide member. The rail includes a first locking element and a second locking element that is connected to the first locking element. The container includes a handle having a third locking element that engages the first locking element. The locking elements are configured to move the container between a first orientation in which the container is provisionally fixed to the guide member and a second orientation in which the container can translate relative to the guide member.