Cable-Aligned Storage Apparatus for Adjustable Height Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage apparatuses attached to surfaces often have limited and cumbersome height adjustment mechanisms, making it difficult for users to adjust the height of the storage structure relative to the surface.
Innovation Solution
A storage apparatus with a support beam and alignment device that allows for adjustable height by using a cable system to move the support structure along multiple mounting positions, enabling easy adjustment without the need for reattachment to the surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cable system with alignment device is used for height adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device acts as an intermediary component between the cable and the support beam, providing a structured interface that guides the cable through predetermined paths and mounting positions. This intermediary mechanism translates simple cable movement into precise height adjustment of the support structure, improving ease of operation while containing complexity within a dedicated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static support structure to a dynamic one where the cable can be moved along the alignment device to adjust height. The alignment device itself is attached to the support beam at a selected mounting position, creating a dynamically adjustable system that adapts to different height requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mounting positions are provided on the support beam, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support beam is segmented with multiple discrete mounting positions along its length, allowing the alignment device to be attached at various heights. This segmentation provides adaptability for different installation requirements while keeping each individual mounting position simple and standardized, reducing overall complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting positions serve multiple functions: they enable height adjustment, provide structural attachment points, and allow for future reconfiguration. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity, as the same structural elements serve multiple purposes in the system.
3Ease of operation
If the cable is movable along the alignment device, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is pre-attached to the support beam at a selected mounting position before cable installation. This preliminary action ensures that the cable follows a predetermined, stable path and connects to a fixed reference point on the support beam, maintaining connection stability while allowing operational movement for height adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable system is designed to be self-aligning through the alignment device, which guides the cable into proper position and maintains stable connection. The system serves itself by using the alignment device's structure to ensure reliable cable attachment without requiring additional complex locking or securing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage apparatus includes a support beam defining a beam axis and adapted to be coupled to a surface. The support beam has first and second beam ends a plurality of mounting positions between the beam ends. The storage apparatus further includes a support structure abutting and being supported by the support beam, an alignment device attached to the support beam, and a cable having a first cable end adapted to be attached to the surface and a second cable end removably attached to the support beam at a selected mounting position. The cable is coupled to the alignment device to align the second cable end with the support beam and the selected mounting position, and is movable along the alignment device to move the second cable end from the selected mounting position to another mounting position for adjusting the support structure relative to the surface.