Modular Console Frame Layout for Reconfigurable Workstations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technical furniture and console systems are expensive, time-consuming to custom manufacture, and difficult to modify or reconfigure, lacking a low-cost, scalable, and highly customizable solution for unique workstation requirements and equipment placement.
Innovation Solution
A modular console system with self-supporting frames comprising extruded side, lateral, and cross supports, allowing for easy customization and reconfiguration through alignment and coupling of modules using various fastening mechanisms, such as couplers, latches, and brackets, enabling flexible arrangement and modification without significant disruption or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom manufactured consoles are used to meet unique workstation requirements, then customization and adaptability are improved, but manufacturing cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The console is divided into multiple standardized modular sections that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. Each module contains standardized equipment support structures, allowing customization through different module combinations rather than custom manufacturing each console configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular sections are designed with universal interfaces and standardized features that can serve multiple functions and configurations. The same basic module type can be used across different console configurations, reducing the number of unique parts needed while maintaining adaptability to various workstation requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed size modular sections are connected to reduce costs, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the degree of customization and flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The modular sections incorporate adjustable and reconfigurable features such as adjustable shelving, movable equipment supports, and flexible panel configurations. This allows the fixed-size modules to be dynamically adapted to different spatial requirements and equipment arrangements, providing customization within the modular framework.
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall module sizes are standardized, each module contains locally customizable features such as variable positioning of equipment mounts, adjustable panel heights, and configurable internal layouts. This allows customization at the local level within each module without requiring custom manufacturing of the entire module.
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom-built consoles are manufactured and installed, then specific requirements are met, but subsequent modifications and upgrades become difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented modular design allows individual modules to be independently removed, added, or replaced without affecting the entire console structure. This segmentation enables easy modification by simply detaching and reattaching modules rather than undertaking extensive disassembly of a custom-built console.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system with standardized interfaces creates a dynamic, reconfigurable structure that can be easily modified. Modules can be relocated to different positions, reconfigured with different equipment, or replaced with updated modules, allowing the console to adapt to changing requirements over time.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to console modules and modular console systems. In one aspect, a console module unit is provided comprising a frame, the frame comprising first and second spaced apart frame sections, each frame section comprising two spaced apart side supports and two spaced apart lateral supports, each lateral support disposed between and forming junctions with corresponding ends of the side supports, and a plurality of cross supports interconnecting the first and second frame sections, wherein at least one of the side, lateral, and cross supports is in the form of an extrusion, the extrusion defining at least one re-entrant channel extending in a direction of its longitudinal axis, the at least one re-entrant channel for receiving at least a portion of a coupler. In another aspect, a modular console system comprising at least two console modules is provided.