Modular Enclosure System with Pivoting Panel Ribs

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a multi-functional modular enclosure system that is easily expandable and adaptable to various uses, particularly for housing animals, plants, or storage, as existing solutions do not adequately address the need for versatility and space efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A modular enclosure system comprising a frame assembly with vertical and horizontal members, connectors, and removable panel assemblies that can pivotally engage longitudinal projections, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and expansion, with components made from various materials such as metals and plastics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing modular enclosures are used, then basic housing function is provided, but versatility and adaptability to various uses are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidcomplexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The enclosure system is designed with universal components that can serve multiple functions. The frame assembly with standardized connectors and the interchangeable panel assemblies allow the same basic structure to be adapted for different uses such as housing animals, plants, or storage, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The enclosure is divided into modular components including a frame assembly and separate panel assemblies that can be independently selected and configured. This segmentation allows users to mix and match panels for different functions while using a standardized frame, achieving versatility through modular组合 rather than designing entirely different structures for each use case

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing modular enclosures are used, then basic housing function is provided, but ease of expansion is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveexpandabilityVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The enclosure system is divided into modular components including a frame assembly and separate panel assemblies that can be independently selected and configured. This segmentation allows users to mix and match panels for different functions while using a standardized frame, achieving versatility through modular组合 rather than designing entirely different structures for each use case

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The enclosure system is designed with universal components that can serve multiple functions. The frame assembly with standardized connectors and the interchangeable panel assemblies allow the same basic structure to be adapted for different uses such as housing animals, plants, or storage, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7827940B2Modular enclosure system
Publication Date: 2010.11.09 SILVERMAN STEPHEN
  • US7827940B2 patent drawing
  • US7827940B2 patent drawing
  • US7827940B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular enclosure system, for example, for housing plants and/or animals is provided. The enclosure system includes a frame assembly having a plurality of vertical and horizontal members, and a plurality of connectors adapted to engage the horizontal and vertical members. The members include longitudinal projections or ribs adapted to engage a plurality of panel assemblies. The panel assemblies include first ends adapted to pivotally engage a rib of one member and a second end having a releasable locking mechanism adapted to engage a rib of a member. The enclosure may be used for any type of storage or housing, but is uniquely adapted to house animals, for example, pets, or plants. Aspects of the invention also include a structural system having horizontal and vertical members and connectors adapted to engage the members.