Shopping Cart Bag Hanging Divider with Hooks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current shopping carts require users to remove items and re-bag them at checkout, which is inefficient with the advent of RFID checkout systems that allow bagging during shopping. There is a need for a solution to hang multiple bags in an open configuration within the cart without requiring a new cart design, and a retrofit kit to accommodate existing carts.
Innovation Solution
A shopping cart design that includes a longitudinally extending divider with dual and single prong hooks, allowing bags to be securely suspended in an open configuration, and a retrofit kit with a retractable divider and hooks to modify existing carts, enabling easy insertion and removal of items while shopping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a completely new shopping cart is introduced to support multiple bag hanging, then the functionality for RFID checkout and easy bagging is improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The shopping cart system is divided into two independent parts: the existing cart framework and the detachable bag hanging attachment. The attachment includes a longitudinal divider with hooks that can be added to existing carts without redesigning the entire cart structure, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while providing the needed functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The bag hanging attachment is designed to nest within the existing cart structure. The longitudinal divider fits between the cart walls, and the attachment can be removed or adjusted without affecting the core cart functionality, allowing existing carts to be upgraded affordably.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a longitudinal divider with multiple hooks is added to the cart, then the ability to hang multiple bags in open configuration is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The divider is segmented into multiple sections with hooks at regular intervals, allowing users to hang multiple bags independently. Each hook is a simple, discrete element that can be easily manufactured and attached, minimizing overall structural complexity while maximizing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal divider serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for hanging bags, acts as a divider within the cart basket, and can be configured to accommodate different numbers and types of bags. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
3Productivity
If hooks are added to hang bags during shopping, then the efficiency of the shopping process is improved, but the cart nesting capability may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment design allows the divider and hooks to be adjusted or removed dynamically. When cart nesting is required, the attachment can be reconfigured or detached, enabling the cart to return to its original nesting-capable state while maintaining bag hanging functionality during shopping.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple bag hanging cart is described. Embodiments of the multiple bag hanging cart can include a longitudinal divider having a plurality of dual prong hooks and a plurality of single prong hooks spaced along right and left sides of the cart. The dual prong hooks of the longitudinal divider can be configured to be aligned with respective single prong hooks located on either side of the cart. In use, one or more bags can be hung within a basket of the cart via the dual prong hooks and the single prong hooks to allow for easy insertion of items into the bags.