Hinged Bag Dispenser Rack for Multi-Size Counter Space Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bag dispensing systems for retail counters are inefficient in utilizing space, often requiring large areas and not accommodating multiple bag sizes, nor providing easy loading or visual inventory, while also lacking durability and simplicity for operation.
Innovation Solution
A modular bag dispenser system with adjustable trays and hinged cover plates that can hold multiple bag sizes, allowing for efficient use of counter space, easy loading, and visual inventory, while being durable and inexpensive, and capable of accommodating advertising.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a traditional bag dispensing system is used, then bags can be dispensed, but it requires a large amount of counter space (one square foot or more)
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is divided into multiple compartments, each capable of holding different sizes of bags. This segmentation allows the system to accommodate various bag sizes simultaneously while maintaining a compact overall footprint, resolving the contradiction between space efficiency and versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Smaller compartments are nested within or alongside larger ones, allowing multiple bag sizes to be stored in a hierarchical arrangement. This nesting approach maximizes the use of vertical and horizontal space, enabling the dispenser to hold multiple bag sizes without requiring excessive counter space.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional bag dispensing system is used, then bags can be dispensed, but loading and inventory management are complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Bags are pre-packaged in compact bundles with built-in tearing features and alignment structures. These preliminary preparations allow for rapid loading into the dispenser compartments and enable quick visual inventory checks, significantly reducing the time and complexity of loading and management operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bag bundles are designed with self-aligning features and easy-tear mechanisms that allow the system to automatically organize and dispense bags without requiring complex manual intervention. This self-service approach simplifies loading procedures and enables quick inventory assessment by the user.
3Area of stationary object
If a compact bag dispenser is used, then counter space is saved, but it may not accommodate multiple bag sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is divided into multiple size-specific compartments, each optimized for different bag dimensions. This segmentation enables the compact unit to accommodate various bag sizes simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between compactness and multi-size capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser features adjustable or reconfigurable compartments that can adapt to different bag sizes. This dynamic adjustability allows the same compact unit to serve multiple bag size requirements, maintaining versatility while preserving space efficiency.
4Reliability
If a durable and functional bag dispenser is used, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser is constructed primarily from uniform plastic material using injection molding techniques. This homogeneous material selection and consistent manufacturing process enhance durability while keeping production costs low and manufacturing complexity minimal, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
A bag dispenser rack, includes a first bag pack support tray that has a first base, a first left side wall, a first right side wall, a first back wall, a first front wall and holds a first merchandise bag pack. The first front wall has a first opening that permits extraction of first bags from the first pack. A second bag pack support tray has a second base, a second left side wall, a second right side wall, a second back wall, a second front wall and holds a second merchandise bag pack. The second front wall has a second opening to permit extraction of second bags from the second pack. The second bag pack support tray is hingedly attached to the first bag pack support tray. The second bag pack support tray pivots upwardly to permit loading of a first bag pack into the first bag pack tray.