Adjustable Shelving Assembly With Tool-Free Wire Groove Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shelving systems lack adjustability, aesthetics, flexibility of use, and functionality, often requiring complex assembly and tools, which can be intimidating for consumers and do not meet specific needs, especially in retail displays where aesthetics significantly impact sales.
Innovation Solution
A shelving system featuring interconnectable components with side grooves and flexible wire supports that allow for tool-free assembly and adjustment, enabling easy reconfiguration without separate fasteners, providing stability and versatility in design and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional shelving systems use traditional assembly methods with separate fasteners and tools, then connection strength and stability are improved, but assembly complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides structural support, enables connection to frame members through embedded tabs, and eliminates the need for separate fasteners. The shelf itself acts as a retaining structure through its side grooves, merging the support function with the shelf structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service assembly where the shelf and shelf support components are designed to work together without external tools or separate fasteners. The shelf's side grooves automatically retain the shelf support ends, and the embedded tabs directly engage with frame member holes, allowing consumers to assemble the shelving system intuitively without mechanical ability or detailed instructions.
2Ease of operation
If shelving systems are designed to be easily assembled without tools, then ease of operation is improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support is segmented into distinct functional zones: embedded tabs for engagement with frame members and a body portion that interfaces with the shelf's side grooves. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function reliably while maintaining overall system simplicity and ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf support features asymmetric design elements including embedded tabs positioned at specific locations and side grooves with particular geometries. This asymmetry ensures proper orientation and engagement during assembly, preventing incorrect installation while maintaining tool-free assembly. The asymmetric shape of the shelf support allows it to be manipulated into holes when the shelf is absent but held securely when the shelf is present.
3Manufacturing precision
If shelving systems use fixed configurations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability and adjustability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support is designed as a universal component that can be used with multiple shelf positions and frame member configurations. The embedded tabs and side groove engagement create a multi-functional connection system that maintains precise manufacturing tolerances while allowing consumers to reconfigure the shelving system to meet different storage needs and space requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A shelving system includes a frame with vertical frame members and cross braces, a shelf with three-sided perimeter groove and under-shelf groove, a wire perimeter shelf support engaging the perimeter groove and vertical frame members, and a wire under-shelf support constructed to engage the under-shelf groove and the vertical legs in a stable arrangement. The assembled shelving system does not require tools or separate fasteners for assembly, and assembly is quick, easy and intuitive, yet allows for flexibility, customization, and adaptation for different uses and desired aesthetics. A variety of very different shelving systems can be constructed by purchasing different frames, shelves, and accessories. The system can be leaned against a wall at an angle, or fastened vertically against a wall. Shelves are angularly adjustable, height adjustable, and replaceable. A pair of systems angled against each other form a free standing arrangement, and can support a header panel therebetween.