Collapsible Rack Apparatus for Confined Space Storage and Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utilizing a rack in a confined space is difficult due to obstructions and the rack itself becoming an obstacle when not in use, especially in spaces like garages or docks where vehicles and equipment are closely positioned, hindering access and requiring more space.
Innovation Solution
A rack apparatus with a compact, movable frame that can be displaced between a stowed position and a use position, where extension arms pivot and extend to allow hanging articles, reducing the footprint when not in use and allowing storage adjacent to a vertical surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid rack frame is used to hang articles, then the rack can provide stable hanging capability, but the rack becomes an obstacle to movement and requires more space in confined areas
Solution Approach 1:
The rack frame is designed to be collapsible, transitioning from an extended configuration during use to a compact folded configuration for storage. This dynamic transformation allows the rack to occupy minimal space when not in use while providing full hanging functionality when deployed, directly resolving the contradiction between stability and space occupation
2Area of stationary object
If the rack is positioned in a confined space to maximize space utilization, then less space is occupied, but obstructions prevent access to the rack for hanging articles
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible frame allows the rack to be positioned close to walls or in tight spaces when folded, then expanded outward when needed to provide adequate access for hanging articles. This dynamic capability enables the rack to adapt its footprint based on operational needs versus storage constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The rack utilizes vertical space by collapsing inward toward itself rather than requiring horizontal clearance. When folded, the frame components nest within the vertical profile of the rack structure, allowing placement in confined horizontal spaces while maintaining accessibility when deployed
3Area of stationary object
If vehicles and equipment are positioned closely together in a garage or dock, then space efficiency is improved, but the rack becomes difficult to access and use
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible frame enables rapid deployment from a compact stored state to a fully extended operational state. Users can quickly set up the rack when needed and fold it away when not in use, reducing the time spent accessing and configuring the rack in tightly packed environments
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
Enables efficient use of space by allowing articles to be hung in confined areas without obstructing movement or requiring excessive space, and reduces storage needs by compacting when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
A first extension arm may have an end pivotably attached to the first bottom end bracket, and a second extension arm may have an end pivotably attached to the second bottom end bracket. A first linkage arm may have a first end pivotably attached to the first top end bracket and a second end slideably attached to the first extension arm.
Implementation Method 2
A first linkage arm may have a first end pivotably attached to the first top end bracket and a second end slideably attached to the first extension arm. A second linkage arm may have a first end pivotably attached to the second top end bracket and a second end slideably attached to the second extension arm.
Data Source
AI summary
A rack apparatus includes a top member and a bottom member. A first extension arm is pivotably attached to the bottom member and a second extension arm is pivotably attached to the bottom member. A first linkage arm is pivotably attached to the top member and slideably attached to the first extension arm, and a second linkage arm is pivotably attached to the top member and slideably attached to the second extension arm. The rack apparatus is displaceable between a stowed position and a use position via linear displacement of the bottom member. When in the stowed position, the first and second extension arms are positioned alongside the top and bottom members, and when in the use position, the first and second extension arms extend away from the bottom member.