Modular Tiered Cake Stand for Stable Display and Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foodstuffs display stands lack customization options, are not sturdy, and are difficult to disassemble and store compactly, making them less desirable for displaying and storing items like cakes and cupcakes.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-tier center support stand with plates and posts connected by mechanical fasteners, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling customizable and space-saving configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a display stand is designed with a fixed configuration, then it provides structural stability, but it lacks customization options and occupies excessive storage space when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The display stand is divided into multiple independent modules including base units, plate units, and connector pieces that can be separately stored and reconfigured. Each module contains standardized connection interfaces that allow easy assembly without complex tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector pieces are designed with universal connection interfaces that can join different types of modules (base to plate, plate to plate, base to connector). This multi-functional connection system allows the same connectors to be used throughout the entire structure, simplifying both assembly and disassembly processes while enabling various customization configurations.
2Reliability
If a display stand is made sturdy and attractive, then it provides reliable foodstuff display, but it cannot be easily disassembled for compact storage
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into modular components connected by standardized interfaces, allowing the stand to be disassembled into manageable pieces for storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled. The segmentation enables easy separation without damaging the sturdiness of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The disassembled modules are designed to nest within each other or stack compactly, with smaller components fitting into spaces within larger components. This nesting arrangement allows the sturdy display stand to be collapsed into a compact storage configuration that protects the structural integrity of each component.
3Strength
If a display stand uses traditional fixed design, then it maintains structural integrity, but it takes up excessive storage space and is difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The display stand is segmented into modular units that can be disconnected and stored separately or nested together. Each module maintains its structural strength independently, allowing the overall structure to be compacted for storage while preserving the integrity of individual components for when they are reassembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The stand transitions from a three-dimensional expanded configuration during use to a compact one-dimensional or two-dimensional stacked arrangement for storage. The modular design allows modules to be collapsed along vertical and horizontal dimensions, dramatically reducing storage volume while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection points.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple tier center support stand that includes a plurality of plates each being configured to be associated with a mechanical fastener and a plurality of posts each being configured to be associated with a mechanical fastener. The mechanical fastener is arranged on at least one of the plurality of plates and the plurality of posts in order to vertically arrange the plurality of plates and the plurality of posts. At least one of the plurality of plates is configured to be disassembled in at least two pieces.