Charging locker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charging locker systems are not economical to manufacture and require complex assembly, making them costly and difficult to service, especially when components need to be replaced without removing the entire unit from its installed location.
Innovation Solution
A modular charging locker system with a frame and vertically stackable shelf units, where each shelf unit has integral walls and tabs that engage with the frame's notches for secure positioning, allowing for easy assembly and replacement of components without disassembling the entire unit, and includes a power/data access window and interchangeable power strips for customizable power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional charging locker systems are used, then charging functionality is provided, but manufacturing costs are high and assembly is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The charging locker is divided into modular shelf units that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each shelf unit contains integrated charging components, allowing standardized production and easy replacement without disassembling the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf units are designed with universal mounting features (tabs and notches) that allow them to be installed in various configurations and positions within the frame, reducing the need for custom-made components and simplifying manufacturing.
2Ease of repair
If traditional charging locker systems are used, then charging functionality is provided, but service and component replacement are difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent shelf modules that can be removed and replaced individually. When a component fails, only the affected shelf unit needs to be accessed and serviced, not the entire charging locker system.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging components are extracted as separate, self-contained modules within each shelf unit. This allows service personnel to remove and replace specific shelf units without disassembling the main frame or other components.
3Ease of operation
If modular shelf units with tabs and notches are used, then easy assembly and replacement are achieved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into discrete tabs on shelf units and corresponding notches in the frame, creating simple mechanical interlocking features that are easy to manufacture and assemble despite adding some structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs and notches are designed as simple, inexpensive mechanical features that enable quick assembly and disassembly. The structural complexity is minimized by using basic geometric shapes rather than complex fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A charging locker includes a frame, and a plurality of modular shelf units. Each modular shelf unit having an integral floor, at least one side wall, and a back wall. The plurality of modular shelf units are configured to extend vertically above one another to form a stack of modular shelf units in which the side walls and back walls of the plurality of modular shelf units form nearly contiguous first and second surfaces. A plurality of tabs on corners of each of the modular shelf units are provided to be received in notches in the frame to support the modular shelf units relative to the frame. A plurality of electrical receptacles are also provided. At least one electrical receptacle is accessible from within each of the modular shelf units.