Modular Gantry Storage System for Elongated Loads Without Welding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current storage systems for elongated elements, such as those using metal profiles, are time-consuming and costly to assemble due to welding at the customer's premises, and lack flexibility to adapt to changing needs or be easily reconfigured or relocated.

Innovation Solution

A modular system comprising at least two gantries with vertical supports and beams, anchored to open profiles that can be easily reconfigured, disassembled, and expanded in height or length, allowing for multiple configurations and the storage of various materials in a single location.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If welding is used to assemble storage systems at customer premises, then structural strength and stability are improved, but assembly time and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The storage system is divided into modular components (vertical supports, horizontal beams, connection pieces) that can be assembled without welding. The connection pieces enable mechanical joining of segments, replacing the welding process while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connection pieces serve as intermediaries between structural components. These pieces facilitate assembly by providing standardized mechanical connection interfaces, eliminating the need for welding equipment and operations at customer premises.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If welding is used to assemble storage systems, then permanent structural integrity is achieved, but flexibility for reconfiguration and relocation is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidreconfiguration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a static welded structure to a dynamic modular system where components can be easily assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured. The mechanical connection pieces enable the structure to adapt to different configurations while maintaining strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection pieces are designed with universal interfaces that work across all modular components. This universality allows the same connection mechanism to serve multiple functions: initial assembly, reconfiguration, and relocation, all while maintaining structural integrity.

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

3Manufacturing precision

If fixed storage systems are assembled on-site, then installation precision is achieved, but assembly cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation precisionVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Modular components are manufactured with precise dimensions and connection interfaces in advance at the factory. This preliminary precision work eliminates the need for complex on-site measurements and adjustments, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining installation precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the assembly parameter from welding (requiring specialized equipment and skills) to mechanical connection (using standardized interfaces). This parameter change reduces assembly complexity while maintaining the precision needed for proper installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4428061A1Modular system for storage of long elongated loads
Publication Date: 2024.09.11 SINASE ACEROS Y SERVICIOS SA
  • EP4428061A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4428061A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4428061A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Load storage system for elongated elements (A) comprising at least two gantries (1), wherein each gantry (1) is formed by at least two vertical supports (2) and at least one beam (3) supported by said at least two vertical supports (2), such that between two adjacent gantries (1) at least one load storage space is formed, such that each beam (3) defines a storage level, wherein the system comprises: - a base consisting of at least two open profiles (4) with the outer face of their web (4') resting on a support surface (B), so that the vertical supports (2) rest on the said open profiles (4), and - a support piece (5), which can be anchored to the vertical supports (2) and in turn supported on the inner face of the web (4') of the open profiles (4).