Shelving system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Delivery vehicles often have preconfigured storage arrangements that are not optimally suited to the varying sizes, weights, and fragilities of cargo or packages, leading to inefficient storage and retrieval, which increases delivery time and cost.
Innovation Solution
A modular shelving unit with a segmented base plate and foldable walls that can transition from a collapsed to an expanded configuration, allowing for customizable storage solutions within utility vehicles, featuring pivotable shelves and bracing arms for optimal cargo arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If preconfigured storage arrangements are used in delivery vehicles, then the storage structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different cargo sizes, weights, and fragilities is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving unit is divided into multiple segments including a base plate with multiple segments, foldable walls with multiple segments, and individual shelves that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each part to be independently adjusted or reconfigured to accommodate different cargo types while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelving unit incorporates dynamic elements such as foldable walls that can transition between extended and retracted positions, and shelves that can be adjusted to different heights and angles. This dynamic capability enables the storage arrangement to adapt to varying cargo requirements without requiring multiple fixed configurations.
2Productivity
If fixed storage arrangements are used, then the device complexity is low, but the efficiency of cargo access and retrieval is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving unit allows dynamic reconfiguration of shelf positions and wall extensions based on cargo retrieval needs. Frequently accessed items can be positioned at optimal locations while maintaining structural stability, thereby improving retrieval efficiency without requiring complete system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage arrangement serves multiple functions through its adjustable components - it can accommodate different cargo sizes, provide various storage heights, and enable quick reconfiguration for different delivery scenarios. This multi-functionality improves productivity by eliminating the need for separate storage solutions for different cargo types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customizable storage arrangements are implemented, then the adaptability to various cargo is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular shelving unit consists of discrete, standardized segments that can be independently manufactured, assembled, and reconfigured. This segmentation reduces the complexity of customization by providing a standardized building block approach rather than requiring custom-designed components for each cargo type.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelving unit features nested or collapsible components such as foldable walls that can be stored within the base structure when not in use. This nesting capability reduces the overall footprint and simplifies the system when in transport or storage mode, offsetting the complexity added by the customizable features.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular shelving unit includes a base plate that is planar in an expanded configuration. A first foldable wall is connected to a first side of the base plate. A second foldable wall is connected to a second side of the base plate. The first foldable wall has a first segment and a second segment, and the second foldable wall has a third segment and a fourth segment. The second and fourth segments are rotatable about a respective hinge to define an interior surface with its respective first or third segment when in the expanded configuration. Shelves extend from the interior surfaces in the expanded configuration. In the collapsed configuration, the second and fourth segments are rotated about their respective hinges out of planar with their respective first and third segments. Other embodiments of modular shelving units are described herein.