Shelving systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle tray systems lack the ability to adjust spacing between trays based on the size and shape of items, leading to inadequate or excessive spacing, and suffer from unstable trays during vehicle maneuvers, difficult locking mechanisms, and weak handles.
Innovation Solution
A shelving system with adjustable side members, slides, and locking mechanisms that allow for customizable tray spacing and secure, easy operation, featuring a handle that facilitates one-handed locking and unlocking.
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 manufacturing is easy, but the spacing cannot accommodate items of varying sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The rack structure incorporates movable trays that can be repositioned vertically along the rack posts. The trays are equipped with engagement mechanisms that allow them to slide to different heights and lock into position, transforming the static equal-spacing configuration into a dynamic adjustable-spacing system that adapts to items of varying sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack is divided into multiple discrete tray units that can be independently positioned. Each tray can be adjusted to different vertical locations on the rack posts, allowing individual spacing customization rather than requiring uniform spacing across all trays.
2Ease of operation
If conventional locking mechanisms with small thumb releases are used, then the locking mechanism is compact, but accessing and operating the lock is difficult especially when carrying items
Solution Approach 1:
A cable is introduced as an intermediary element that connects the locking mechanism to an extended handle. The cable transmits the locking force from the handle operation to the tray engagement points, allowing the user to operate the lock from a convenient distance without needing to reach small, hard-to-access thumb releases.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended handle with cable creates a self-extending mechanism where the locking system automatically provides the operational leverage and reach needed. When the user pulls or pushes the extended handle, the cable automatically engages and disengages the locking points on the tray, making the system self-adjusting to user needs.
3Ease of operation
If trays are allowed to slide freely on the rack, then accessing items is convenient, but trays slide at undesired times during vehicle maneuvers causing items to move or fall
Solution Approach 1:
The tray system employs a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions between locked and unlocked states. During normal vehicle operation, the trays remain locked in position. When the user needs access, they can easily unlock and slide the tray, then re-lock it after use. This dynamic control allows both stability and accessibility as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction or engagement characteristics of the tray-rack interface are changed between two states: a high-friction locked state that prevents sliding during vehicle maneuvers, and a low-friction unlocked state that allows easy sliding for access. The locking mechanism modifies the physical parameters of the contact surfaces to achieve these different operational modes.
4Strength
If handles are made of weak construction to reduce weight or cost, then manufacturing is easier and cost is lower, but handles bend or break when pulled
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is constructed from composite materials or a combination of materials that provide both high strength and ease of manufacturing. For example, a plastic or polymer composite that can be molded into the desired shape while maintaining sufficient structural strength to withstand pulling forces without bending or breaking.
Data Source
AI summary
A shelving system includes side members that each define a first channel having a slide disposed therein. A cross member extends between and connects the slides. The cross member defines a second channel having a guide member disposed therein. The guide member defines a third channel and a flange. A container includes side walls having a rail. One of the rails is movably disposed in the third channel. The rails include a first locking element and a second locking element. The handle includes a third locking element that engages the first locking element. The handle is movable between a first position in which the second locking element engages the flange and the container is fixed relative to the guide member and a second position in which the second locking element is spaced apart from the flange and the container can translate relative to the guide member.