Extruded Shelf Element Reinforcement for Transverse Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shelf elements for rack systems lack sufficient rigidity and stability against transverse forces, leading to potential bending deformations and inadequate reinforcement, which affects their robustness and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The shelf element features an elongated main body with limb portions and an intermediate portion, incorporating a rib for reinforcement, through-passage openings for add-on parts, and a chamber structure to house a separate reinforcing element, along with coupling locations and an insertion receptacle for additional functionality, all fabricated from an extruded profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the shelf element uses a simple main body structure, then the manufacturing cost is reduced and production is simplified, but the rigidity and stability against transverse forces deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf element is divided into distinct functional segments: a main body for load-bearing, longitudinal ribs for transverse reinforcement, and transverse ribs for additional stiffness. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently while maintaining overall structural integrity and rigidity against transverse forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces longitudinal ribs that extend along the length of the shelf element and transverse ribs that span across the width, adding dimensional complexity to the structure. These ribs create a three-dimensional reinforcement network that significantly improves rigidity against transverse forces without compromising manufacturing feasibility through extrusion processes.
2Strength
If the shelf element includes reinforcement structures like ribs, then the rigidity and robustness are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extruded profile serves multiple functions simultaneously: the main body provides load-bearing capacity, the longitudinal ribs reinforce against transverse forces, and the transverse ribs provide additional stiffness. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single extrusion process, reducing the need for separate components and assembly steps, thereby managing complexity while maintaining robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the dimensions, spacing, and cross-sectional geometry of the ribs to achieve the required robustness. By carefully controlling parameters such as rib thickness, length, and distribution, the structure gains sufficient strength and rigidity without excessive material usage or manufacturing complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shelf element has through-passage openings for add-on parts, then the adaptability and functionality are enhanced, but the structural integrity and rigidity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The through-passage openings are strategically positioned and dimensioned during the design phase to minimize their impact on structural integrity. The openings are located in regions where they provide maximum functionality for add-on parts while avoiding critical load paths. The surrounding structure is reinforced with ribs that bridge the openings, maintaining structural continuity and rigidity.
Data Source
AI summary
A shelf element comprises an upper side, a lower side and an elongated main body. The main body has two limb portions and an intermediate portion located therebetween. The intermediate portion is assigned to the upper side of the shelf element. The main body also has at least one through-passage opening that passes transversely through at least one of the limb portions and/or the intermediate portion. At least one coupling location is provided in each of the longitudinal-side ends of the shelf element, to couple an add-on part and/or a shelf component and/or a rack component. At least one rib is provided, which is assigned to the intermediate portion and has a longitudinal extent in the longitudinal direction of the main body. A separate reinforcing element may be assigned to the main body, in order to reinforce the main body against forces acting transversely with respect to its longitudinal extent.