Convertible display and storage bin
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Retail and similar industries face challenges in efficiently utilizing display fixtures, as they often require frequent changes in display configurations, leading to storage issues and wasted space, as existing fixtures are not easily adaptable for multiple uses.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible display bin with a base, rotatably coupled sidewalls, and corner rails that can be selectively positioned to form different configurations, allowing for self-storage and adjustable shelves, enabling versatile use without the need for additional fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple display fixtures are used to accommodate changing display needs, then display versatility is improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The display fixture is designed as a modular system where the base unit can accommodate multiple sidewall configurations. The same base can hold 1, 2, 3, or 4 sidewalls in various arrangements, allowing a single fixture to replace multiple specialized fixtures. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to store multiple different display fixtures for different product arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sidewalls are designed to collapse vertically and nest within the base when not in use. The corner rails and sidewalls fold into compact positions that fit inside the base footprint, reducing the storage volume from the expanded display configuration to a compact stored configuration that occupies minimal back-room space.
2Volume of stationary object
If display fixtures are made collapsible for storage, then storage efficiency is improved, but structural stability during use may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The corner rails incorporate movable elements that transition between a locked position during display use and an unlocked position for collapsing. The sidewalls are held firmly in place by the corner rails when configured for display, providing structural stability. When storage is needed, the movable elements are released, allowing the sidewalls to collapse and nest within the base for efficient storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used to increase configuration options, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display fixture is divided into discrete modular components: a base, multiple identical sidewalls, and corner rails with standardized coupling mechanisms. Each component is designed with simple, standardized interfaces that allow them to be easily assembled and reconfigured. The segmentation into uniform modules simplifies the overall system complexity compared to designing entirely different fixtures for each configuration need.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The collapsible display bin provides multiple configuration options, reducing storage needs by allowing components to be stored within the base when not in use, thus optimizing space and maintaining aesthetic appeal on the sales floor.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one corner rail selectively and slidably receives the first coupling flange of a first one of the at least two sidewalls within the elongated reception channel of the first planar segment
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible storage bin comprising a base, at least two sidewalls each rotatably coupled to the base, and at least one corner rail. Each of the at least two sidewalls rotates from a storage position within the base to a use position extending out of the base. Opposing ends of each of the at least two sidewalls is formed by a channel open toward the channel of the other of the first side end and the second side end top to define a first coupling flange as part of the first side end and a second coupling flange as part of the second side end. The at least one corner rail includes a first planar segment and a second planar segment coupled edge-to-edge to each other. Each of the first planar segment and the second planar segment terminates with a return to form a different elongated reception channel open toward the other of the first planar segment and the second planar segment. The at least one corner rail selectively and slidably receives the first coupling flange of a first one of the at least two sidewalls within the elongated reception channel of the first planar segment, and the at least one corner rail selectively and slidably receives the second coupling flange of a second one of the at least two sidewalls within the elongated reception channel of the second planar segment to hold the at least two sidewalls substantially perpendicular to one another.