Folding Cart Accessory Frame for Expanded Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Folding utility carts have limited storage capacity and are not suitable for bulkier or oddly shaped items, as the flexible central storage area can be damaged by such items, and there is no means to secure fragile items or provide additional storage options beyond the main storage area.
Innovation Solution
A folding utility cart accessory device with a frame, support arms, and fasteners that can be secured to the front or rear of the cart, allowing for additional storage through multiple horizontal members with retaining elements, enabling the hanging of items like chairs and providing a collapsible design for compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If items are stored in the flexible central storage area of the folding utility cart, then storage capacity is utilized, but bulkier or oddly shaped items can damage the storage area lining and warp the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the storage system into two separate components: the main flexible central storage area and an additional rigid frame structure with horizontal members. This segmentation allows bulkier items to be stored in the rigid frame without damaging the flexible storage area, while smaller items can still be stored in the central area, thus resolving the contradiction between storage capacity and structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the folding utility cart is designed with a collapsible frame for compact storage, then portability is improved, but the amount of storage space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the collapsible folding utility cart with an additional rigid frame structure that provides extra storage capacity. The rigid frame can be attached to the collapsible cart, combining the portability benefits of the folding design with the expanded storage space of the rigid structure, thus resolving the contradiction between portability and storage space.
3Device complexity
If the folding utility cart includes only a main storage area, then device complexity is reduced, but additional storage options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid frame structure with multiple horizontal members serves multiple functions: it provides additional storage space, offers secure attachment points for various items, and can be configured in different ways to accommodate different storage needs. This multi-functionality increases adaptability without significantly increasing overall device complexity, as the rigid frame is a simple additive component.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding utility cart accessory device includes a frame having a pair of vertical supports and an upper horizontal member extending between an upper end of each vertical support. A pair of support arms are attached to the frame. A first pair of fasteners are attached to a lower horizontal member that extends between each vertical support. A second pair of fasteners are attached to a lower end of each vertical support. The first pair of fasteners are configured to removably secure to an upper horizontal member of a folding utility cart frame. The second pair of fasteners are configured to removably secure to a vertical member of a folding utility cart frame. In this way, the frame can be removably secured to either the front end or rear end of a folding utility cart to provide additional storage options.