Modular Cart Base Frame with Protrusion Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional utility cart systems are inflexible, with fixed configurations and accessories, limiting user customization and requiring multiple carts for different uses, which is costly and environmentally unfriendly.
Innovation Solution
A configurable cart system with a base accessory receiving frame and additional frames that allow for secure mounting of various accessories, enabling adjustable and expandable configurations to suit different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed cart systems are used, then manufacturing and structural simplicity are maintained, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cart system is divided into modular components including a base frame, multiple interchangeable accessories (shelves, baskets, drawers, hangers), and a standardized mounting mechanism. Each accessory can be independently attached or removed from the base frame, allowing the system to be segmented and reconfigured for different uses without requiring complex integrated designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame is designed with a universal mounting structure that can accommodate multiple types of accessories through a standardized interface. The perimeter rim with internal groove and protrusion system provides a universal attachment mechanism that works with various accessory types (shelves, baskets, drawers, hangers), enabling one base frame to serve multiple functions rather than requiring separate specialized carts for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple fixed cart systems are purchased for different uses, then specific functional requirements are met, but cost and environmental impact worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple separate cart systems for different functions (kitchen cart, office cart, storage cart), this invention provides a single universal base frame that can be configured with different accessories to serve multiple functions. One base frame replaces what would traditionally require three or more separate carts, reducing the total quantity of cart systems needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple cart functions into a single base frame system by combining various accessories (shelves for storage, baskets for organization, drawers for small items, hangers for clothing) that would traditionally require separate carts. This consolidation reduces the number of separate cart systems from multiple to one.
3Ease of operation
If accessories are fixed in set positions, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation and reconfiguration deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism transitions from fixed to dynamic/reconfigurable. The perimeter rim with internal groove and protrusion design allows accessories to be easily attached and detached at multiple positions around the base frame. Users can rearrange accessories by simply removing and reattaching them to different locations on the perimeter rim, providing dynamic reconfiguration capability without complex tools or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable cart system having an accessory receiving base frame with a bottom, an external perimeter, an internal perimeter and a top where there is a mounting portion between the external perimeter and the internal perimeter, and the frame is designed to be used with at least one accessory dimensioned to fit into the frame, and where the accessory has an accessory bottom, a resting portion that matingly rests on the mounting portion of the accessory receiving base frame and at least two protrusions projecting from at least two different points on the accessory bottom where the protrusions are positioned on the accessory bottom so that the protrusions abut the internal perimeter of the receiving frame to prevent the accessory from horizontal movement.