Modular display unit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display solutions for mannequins in retail stores often lack the ability to create an elevated and visually appealing presentation, particularly when mannequins need to be displayed in a way that showcases merchandise effectively.

Innovation Solution

A modular display unit comprising a base frame and a cover that can be attached to form an elevated runway, where the cover is spaced apart from the base frame, allowing for easy assembly and hiding of fasteners, enabling the display of mannequins and merchandise in a stylish and efficient manner.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the cover is attached directly to the base frame, then the structure is simple, but the fasteners are visible and the appearance is not clean

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a vertical spacing dimension between the cover and base frame, creating a three-dimensional relationship rather than direct contact. This spacing allows fasteners to be positioned in a hidden location while maintaining structural attachment, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and aesthetics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The spacing act as an intermediary element between the cover and base frame, enabling the fastening function to be achieved without direct attachment. This intermediary space allows the fasteners to be concealed while still providing structural connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Shape

If the cover is spaced apart from the base frame, then the fasteners can be hidden, but the assembly becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the attachment function from the visual presentation by separating the cover and base frame with a spacing. This segmentation allows the fastening mechanism to operate independently in the spacing region while the cover maintains its clean aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If traditional shelving or hanging racks are used, then the display is simple, but the mannequins cannot be displayed at an elevated position for better viewing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay structure simplicityVSAvoiddisplay elevation height
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by elevating the cover platform above the base frame, creating an elevated display surface for mannequins. This vertical separation achieves the desired elevation without requiring complex traditional shelving or hanging rack structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS9795230B2Modular display unit
Publication Date: 2017.10.24 TARGET BRANDS INC
  • US9795230B2 patent drawing
  • US9795230B2 patent drawing
  • US9795230B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A display unit includes an upper component that has a top panel, four side panels having bottom edges, exterior surfaces and interior surfaces that define a hollow interior. A base frame includes a lower portion having an outer periphery and an upper portion that extends upwardly from a top of the lower portion and has an outer periphery. Four corner members are coupled to and extend inwardly from the interior surfaces of the upper component and are positioned at a distance from the bottom edges of the four side panels. The four corner members engage with a top of the upper portion of the base frame such that the bottom edges of the four side panels of the upper component are spaced apart from the top of the lower portion of the base frame to expose a section of the upper portion of the base frame.