Folding Trolley Tray Structure for Versatile Compact Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trolleys have single functions, limited use occasions, occupy large space, and are costly for packaging and transportation.

Innovation Solution

A multifunctional folding trolley with four pillars, multiple trays, and folding mechanisms allowing it to be configured in different states for various uses, including three-deck, two-deck, single-deck, and fully folded configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a trolley is designed with single function and fixed structure, then it is simple to manufacture, but it occupies large space and has limited use occasions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuse occasionsVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The trolley is divided into multiple independent trays (first tray, second tray, third tray) that can be detached and reconfigured. Each tray can be folded independently along folding lines, allowing the structure to be segmented into smaller units that can be arranged in different configurations for different uses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The trolley employs folding mechanisms with folding lines and detachable connections that allow the structure to dynamically change between expanded and folded states. The trays can be folded along predetermined lines and detached from pillars, enabling the trolley to adapt its shape and size according to different usage requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Volume of moving object

If a trolley is designed with fixed non-folding structure, then it has simple operation, but it occupies large transportation space and has high packaging cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransportation spaceVSAvoidfolding operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Folding lines are pre-established on the trays and pillars during manufacturing, creating predetermined fold paths. Detachable connection points are pre-positioned on the pillars and trays. These preliminary structural features enable quick folding and unfolding operations without requiring complex assembly procedures during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a trolley has multiple fixed trays, then it can carry diverse items, but it cannot be folded and occupies large space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveitem carrying capacityVSAvoidoccupied space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The carrying capacity is segmented across multiple independent trays that can be configured separately. Each tray can be folded independently along folding lines, allowing the multi-tray structure to be collapsed into a compact form while maintaining the capability to carry diverse items when expanded.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUSRE50688E1Multifunctional folding trolley
Publication Date: 2025.12.09 SUZHOU XINDADI HARDWARE
  • USRE50688E1 patent drawing
  • USRE50688E1 patent drawing
  • USRE50688E1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention discloses a multifunctional folding trolley, which comprises four pillars, a first tray at the upper end of the four pillars, a second tray at the middle of the four pillars, and a third tray at the lower end of the four pillars, the third tray being provided at the bottom with roller feet; the four pillars, arranged in a cubic shape with side openings, comprise a first pillar group and a second pillar group arranged front and rear in the direction of motion; with one end of the first tray in the length direction detachably disposed on the second pillar group, the first tray is provided at the other end in the length direction with a folding point associated with the first pillar group, such that it can be attached to the first pillar group; with one end of the second tray in the length direction detachably disposed on the first pillar group, the second tray is provided at the other end in the length direction with a folding point associated with the second pillar group, such that it can be attached to the second pillar group; the first pillar group, having a folding point associated with the third tray, can be attached to the third tray; the second pillar group, having a folding point associated with the third tray, can be attached to the first tray. The multifunctional folding trolley provided by the present invention can be used in various occasions and is convenient to store.