Collapsible Utility Rack with Tool-Free Pivoting End Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible utility rack systems face challenges in packaging and assembly, as unitary structures are bulky and difficult to transport, and unassembled systems require tool use and risk instability if incorrectly assembled.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible utility rack system with pivotally coupled end supports and a sliding lock mechanism that allows for easy assembly and disassembly without tools, featuring a diagonal support with a sliding lock mechanism that secures the vertical members, enabling the system to collapse and nest within shelf beams for compact packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If end supports are formed as a single unitary structure, then strength and rigidity are improved, but packaging space and transport difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The end support is divided into separate members including vertical supports, cross members, and diagonal braces that can be packaged individually. These segmented members are then assembled on-site to form the complete end support structure, reducing packaging volume while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
2Volume of moving object
If end supports are produced as separate individual members, then packaging space is reduced, but assembly complexity and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The separate members are designed with self-aligning features and interlocking mechanisms that allow assembly without external tools. The diagonal braces and cross members incorporate features that guide proper positioning and secure connection through simple manual operations, enabling the structure to assemble itself with minimal user intervention.
3Strength
If traditional fastening methods are used for separate members, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time and tool requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical fastening systems requiring tools (screws, bolts, wrenches) are replaced with a pin-based locking mechanism. The diagonal braces connect to vertical supports through pins that lock into place through simple insertion and engagement actions, maintaining connection strength while eliminating tool requirements and significantly reducing assembly time.
4Ease of operation
If the rack system is designed for easy assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and safety may worsen due to potential incorrect assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The pin-based locking mechanism incorporates visual and tactile feedback features that provide immediate confirmation when members are correctly assembled. The pins have specific engagement positions that are easily identifiable, and the structure provides audible clicks or visible alignment indicators when properly connected, ensuring users can verify correct assembly without specialized knowledge or tools.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a utility rack system that includes shelves having a first end, a second end, and a pair of end supports. Each of the pair of end supports is configured to support either the first end or the second end of the one or more elongated shelves. Each of the pair of end supports includes a first vertical member and a second vertical member, an upper cross member pivotally coupled at a first end to the first vertical member and pivotally coupled at a second end to the second vertical member, and a lower cross member pivotally coupled at a first end to the first vertical member and pivotally coupled at a second end to the second vertical member. The utility rack system also includes a diagonal support having a sliding lock mechanism coupling a first end of the diagonal support to the first vertical member.