Modular Display Tray Assembly With Product-Facing Pusher
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current freezer shelving systems lack versatility in accommodating products of varying sizes and dimensions, and they do not effectively maintain product visibility with a forward bias to ensure items are faced towards the front of the shelf.
Innovation Solution
A modular display tray system with adjustable center and side tray sections, featuring a solid floor with ridges for support and a pusher mechanism using a coil spring to automatically face products forward, allowing for customizable width adjustments and easy cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If universal shelving systems with adjustable side walls are used to accommodate varying product sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and product visibility is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system is divided into modular components: fixed bases, adjustable center tray assemblies, and movable side tray sections. Each center tray assembly can be independently configured with different tray combinations to accommodate various product sizes, while the modular design prevents system-wide complexity by standardizing connection interfaces between segments.
Solution Approach 2:
Side tray sections are designed to be movable relative to center tray assemblies, allowing dynamic adjustment of shelf width and configuration. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt to different product dimensions without requiring complex adjustable side walls, as trays can be repositioned or removed as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pusher mechanisms are added to maintain product visibility with forward bias, then product visibility is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pusher mechanism utilizes the weight of products themselves as the driving force. When products are placed on the tray, gravity causes them to naturally slide forward against the pusher, which maintains product visibility without requiring powered actuators or complex control systems. The mechanism is passive and self-regulating, simplifying manufacturing compared to active pusher systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If solid floor trays are used instead of mesh trays, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but friction increases making product movement more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The solid floor tray incorporates localized low-friction features at critical contact points where products interact with the tray surface. These localized modifications reduce friction only where needed for product movement, while the rest of the solid floor maintains its cost-manufacturing advantages. This selective approach avoids the need for complete mesh construction while preserving ease of operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system ensures reliable product movement forward, reduces energy costs by minimizing door opening times, and accommodates a wide range of product sizes, while reducing friction and force required for stocking and retrieval, enhancing both retail and consumer experiences.
Implementation Method 1
A first center tray assembly includes a first center tray section secured to a first base and defining, a first gap therebetween. The first tray is movably secured within the first gap.
Data Source
AI summary
A display tray system includes a union tray section having a center wall and first and second trays extending away from the center wall. A first center tray assembly includes a first center tray section secured to a first base and defining a first gap therebetween. The first tray is movably secured within the first gap. A second center tray assembly includes a second center tray section secured to a second base and defines a second gap therebetween. The second tray is movably secured within the second gap.