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 installation 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 easy assembly and disassembly, allowing for individual components like power strips and locks to be replaced without disassembling the entire unit, and featuring a wiring and access compartment for efficient maintenance.
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 the system to be built from standardized modules rather than custom-built units, reducing manufacturing costs and simplifying assembly procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf units are designed as universal modules that can be configured in different arrangements and serve multiple functions (storage, charging, organization). This standardization enables economies of scale in manufacturing while reducing the complexity of designing and assembling unique charging stations
2Ease of repair
If traditional charging locker systems are used, then charging functionality is provided, but component replacement requires removing the entire unit
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent shelf units that can be accessed and serviced individually. Power strips and other components are integrated into specific shelf modules, allowing technicians to replace only the affected module rather than disassembling the entire charging locker system
Solution Approach 2:
Individual shelf units and their components (power strips, locks, etc.) are designed to be extractable from the main frame. This extraction capability enables easy replacement of faulty components by simply removing and replacing the affected shelf unit without disturbing other parts of the system
3Ease of operation
If modular shelf units are used, then assembly is simplified and components can be replaced easily, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Tabs and notches serve as intermediary coupling elements between shelf units and the frame. These features provide self-aligning and self-centering capabilities during assembly, tolerating minor variations in manufacturing precision while ensuring proper alignment and secure connection of modular components
Solution Approach 2:
The tab and notch dimensions are designed with appropriate tolerances and geometric features that transform minor manufacturing variations into acceptable alignment outcomes. The mechanical interface parameters are optimized to provide guidance and alignment during assembly, reducing the impact of manufacturing precision variations
Data Source
AI summary
A charging locker includes a charging locker frame defining a locker stack compartment and an adjacent wiring and access compartment. A plurality of lockers are located within the locker stack compartment. A plurality of locker doors are provided which correspond to the plurality of lockers, and selectively individually provide access to interiors of respective lockers from a front of the charging locker. The charging locker also includes a wiring and access compartment door selectively providing access to an interior of the wiring and access compartment from the front of the charging locker. The wiring and access compartment is configured to extend in a vertical direction and is horizontally adjacent to each of the lockers located within the locker stack compartment.