Modular Contact Lens Rack With Reconfigurable Tray Positions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular racking systems are often bulky, cumbersome, difficult to assemble and disassemble, and are limited to specific tasks and item sizes, failing to provide a versatile solution for storage, transportation, and display of varying items.
Innovation Solution
A modular racking system featuring interlocking vertically stackable modules with slidably mounted trays, a support base with caster wheels, and a disassembly tool, allowing for easy reconfiguration and adaptation to different sizes and types of items, including a dispensing matrix for contact lenses with labeled positions for precise organization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular racks are designed to be versatile and adaptable to different items, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into multiple independent modules that can be stacked vertically. Each module contains standardized slots and trays that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different storage needs by simply adding or removing modules rather than redesigning the entire structure, thus improving adaptability while keeping individual module complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack employs universal interfaces and standardized slot dimensions across all modules. The same basic module design can accommodate different types of items through interchangeable trays and adjustable dividers. This universality allows a single module design to serve multiple functions and store various item types, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If modular racks are made easy to assemble and disassemble, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack uses segmented modular components with standardized connection interfaces. Modules can be easily attached and detached through simple stacking actions without requiring tools or complex assembly procedures. The segmented design with consistent interfaces ensures reliable connections while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack incorporates self-locking mechanisms and gravity-assisted stacking that allow modules to secure themselves automatically during assembly. The design eliminates the need for external fasteners or complex locking procedures - modules simply snap or lock into place through their own structural features, making assembly trivial while ensuring reliable connections.
3Manufacturing precision
If modular racks are designed for specific tasks and item sizes, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rack employs universal module designs with standardized slot dimensions and interchangeable trays that can accommodate different item sizes. The same precisely-manufactured module can store various items by simply changing the tray configuration or dividers, maintaining manufacturing precision while achieving versatility through standardized interfaces and components.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular racking system for storing, displaying and dispensing optical contact lenses. The system includes a reconfigurable, vertically-stacked array of modules. Each module is assembled from standard panels and includes a number of tray positions. Removable trays are slidably mounted in the modules, are vertically repositionable within the modules, and are provided in differing product configurations for different types of products or packaging. A contact lens dispensing matrix is defined by various positional indicia within the racking system, to designate various contact lens characteristics.