Collapsing clothing display fixture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retail display fixtures lack collapsibility, leading to inefficient storage and shipping due to bulky designs, and often compromise stability with complex mechanisms or loose parts when attempting to fold down.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible retail display fixture using angled or rotating hinges to fold vertical support posts without intersection, integrated peg systems for accessory attachment, and a horizontal crossbar for item display, allowing for efficient storage and retention of stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If vertical support posts are folded down for storage, then storage efficiency is improved, but the support posts collide with each other
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is positioned asymmetrically offset from the centerline of the vertical support post. This offset positioning causes the support posts to fold along divergent paths rather than colliding, as each post rotates around its own hinge location rather than a central axis. The asymmetric hinge placement transforms the folding motion from a convergent path to a divergent path, eliminating the collision problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge axis is oriented at an angle (e.g., 5 degrees) relative to the vertical plane of the support post, introducing a dimensional component to the folding motion. This angular orientation causes the support posts to move in three-dimensional space during folding, tracing arc paths that prevent intersection and collision, rather than simply collapsing in the same plane.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex telescoping mechanisms or hinges are added to enable collapsing, then collapsibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsing function is segmented from the main support structure by using a separate hinge component that connects the vertical support post to the base. This modular approach allows the collapsing capability to be added as a distinct element rather than requiring a completely redesigned integrated mechanism, simplifying both the overall structure and manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism is designed to enable self-collapse without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The hinge allows the support posts to fold down under their own weight or manual manipulation, and can be held in position by friction or simple mechanical features, eliminating the need for powered assistance or complex locking mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hinges or clasps are added to support members for collapsing, then collapsibility is improved, but stability of the support structure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is positioned at the lower portion of the vertical support post rather than at the center or upper portions. This localized placement concentrates the mechanical connection point away from the critical load-bearing regions, minimizing the impact on the overall structural stability. The hinge location is optimized to maintain structural integrity while enabling collapse functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge provides a dynamic connection that allows the support structure to transition between rigid (upright) and flexible (collapsed) states. When upright, the hinge maintains a stable connection that supports the full load; when collapsed, the hinge allows controlled movement. This dynamic capability enables the structure to adapt its rigidity based on operational requirements without permanently compromising stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The subject invention comprises a collapsible display fixture that includes a base 30, two vertical support posts 10 that can accept vertical display panels 50, a horizontal crossbar 20 and hinge 40 that connects each vertical support post to the base. The hinge may be one of two forms, either a hinge with an axis of rotation at an angle of 2-6 degrees, or preferably 3 degrees, or a hinge with a rotatable base that allows the hinge to be rotated 2-6 degrees, or preferably 3 degrees. These hinges allow the vertical support posts to be folded down without intersecting or contacting one another. The vertical display panels integrate an internal peg/pin system, whether the panel is solid or a combination of two laminated layers, such that the pegs/pins are accessible from the outside to accept hangers, pins, pegs, hooks or other display accessories.