Collapsible Storage Rack with Hinged Shelves for Compact Shipping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage racks are bulky in their assembled form, increasing shipping and storage costs, and require complex assembly processes that can be frustrating for consumers.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible and extendable storage rack design featuring hingedly attached shelves that can transition between collapsed and expanded positions, allowing for compact storage and easy assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the rack is designed in a modular configuration with separate components, then the shipping and storage space is reduced, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshipping and storage spaceVSAvoidassembly process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rack is divided into separate modular components including vertical end posts, horizontal shelves, and connecting elements that can be shipped independently in compact packaging, significantly reducing shipping and storage volume compared to pre-assembled racks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rack incorporates self-aligning features such as pre-drilled hole patterns, guide rails, and snap-fit connectors that automatically align components during assembly, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures and reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Strength

If the rack uses multiple fasteners of different sizes for assembly, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly process becomes more difficult and frustrating

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidassembly ease

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rack design uses a universal connector system where a single type of fastener (such as a cam-lock mechanism or tool-free clip) can secure multiple different components including shelves, end posts, and cross-beams, eliminating the need for multiple fastener types while maintaining strong connections

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The rack replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems requiring multiple bolt sizes and tools with simplified mechanisms such as cam-locks, bayonet connectors, or friction-fit systems that provide equivalent or superior connection strength while being tool-free and intuitively operable

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12433400B2Collapsible and expandable storage rack

Publication Date: 2025.10.07 PERFECT SITE LLC

AI summary

A collapsible and extendable storage rack is provided. The rack includes a first end support, a second end support, a top shelf hingedly attached to the first end support and selectively connectable to the second end support, a bottom shelf hingedly attached to the second end support and selectively connectable to the first end support, and a middle shelf. The middle shelf includes a first portion and a second portion hingedly connected to the first portion. The first portion is hingedly connected to the first end support. The second portion is hingedly connected to the second end support. The rack is movable between a collapsed position and an extended position.