Modular Firearm Rack with Folding Support Rods for Compact Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pistol racks are bulky, difficult to store when not in use, and do not facilitate the cleaning and maintenance of firearms, while also risking damage to the firearm if not properly stored.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage rack with a base and hinge system that allows support rods to rotate between a stowed and open position, enabling the firearm to be displayed, stored, and cleaned, with the option for individual or unison rotation of the rods, and integration with a cleaning kit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pistol racks are used for storing and displaying firearms, then the firearms can be stored upright and protected from scratches, but the racks become bulky and difficult to store when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The rack employs a hinge mechanism that allows the support surface to rotate between a horizontal storage position and a vertical display position. This dynamic transformation enables the rack to adapt its configuration based on usage needs, reducing its footprint when stored and providing full functionality when in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack transitions from a two-dimensional flat configuration when stored to a three-dimensional functional structure when deployed. By rotating the support surface vertically, the rack utilizes the vertical dimension to create storage and display capacity while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint.
2Area of stationary object
If firearms are stored loosely or laid flat, then storage space is saved, but the firearm becomes scratched and damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The rack provides a dynamic storage solution where firearms can be stored upright in a vertical orientation rather than laid flat. This vertical positioning prevents contact between the firearm and storage surface, eliminating scratches while maintaining compact space utilization through the foldable design.
Solution Approach 2:
The support rods act as intermediaries between the firearm and the storage environment. These rods provide a controlled interface that supports the firearm barrel in a suspended position, preventing direct contact with potentially damaging surfaces while maintaining stable storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular rack with rotating support rods is used, then the firearm can be supported for display and cleaning, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into modular components including the base, hinge mechanism, and individual support rods. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall system simplicity. The support rods can rotate independently or in unison, providing flexibility without requiring complex interconnected mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism provides a simple rotational degree of freedom that enables the support rods to move between storage and display positions. This single-degree-of-freedom motion is mechanically simple yet provides the necessary adaptability for multiple functions including display, storage, and cleaning operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular cleaning, display, and storage rack for firearms is disclosed for holding or displaying one or more pistols. The firearms rack can hold one or more pistols for cleaning and/or displaying. The firearms rack can also be folded flat for easy storage and/or transport. Multiple racks can be nested or stacked together and occupy less space than a single rack. The rack includes a base, and a plurality of support rods disposed in a spaced apart relation and hingedly operable relative to the base. In an open condition, the plurality of support rods are angularly disposed above a top surface of the base. The firearm is supported on the support rod by insertion of the support rod into the barrel of the firearm. In a closed position, the plurality of support rods are oriented such that they are substantially aligned with a back surface of the base.