Modular Computer Security Cart for Void-Free Shipping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional computer security carts with a one-piece L-shape construction create voids during shipping, leading to wasteful packaging and increased shipping costs due to the need for custom cartons.

Innovation Solution

A modular, disassembled computer security cart design comprising a cabinet, platform, and upright components that can be secured together after assembly, allowing for efficient use of standard rectangular cartons and minimizing packaging voids.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a one-piece L-shape construction is used for the upper security part, then the structural integrity and security are improved, but the packaging efficiency deteriorates due to voids in standard rectangular cartons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidpackaging volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The upper security part is divided into separate components (back panel, side panels, top panel) that can be assembled after shipping. This segmentation allows the components to be packed efficiently in rectangular cartons without creating voids, while still forming a structurally sound L-shape configuration when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a one-piece L-shape construction is used, then the security features are maintained, but the shipping cost increases due to custom carton requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidshipping cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the security cart into assembleable components, the invention enables use of standard rectangular cartons from shipping companies, avoiding custom carton fees while maintaining security through locked compartments and secure assembly mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Volume of stationary object

If custom cartons are designed to fit the L-shape, then packaging efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackaging efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The segmentation of the security cart into modular components allows efficient packing in standard rectangular cartons, eliminating the need for expensive custom carton design and manufacturing while achieving high packaging efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of adapting the packaging to fit the product shape, the product is designed to be disassembled into components that fit standard packaging shapes, inverting the traditional approach to packaging design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS7798580B2Mobile computer security cart
Publication Date: 2010.09.21 GLOBAL EQUIP
  • US7798580B2 patent drawing
  • US7798580B2 patent drawing
  • US7798580B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mobile computer security cart that includes a cabinet, a platform and an upright, The cabinet includes at least one shelf. The platform is coupled to the cabinet and has a top surface including an uncovered substantially planar surface. The upright is coupled to the platform and is configured to accommodate at least one display. The cart has an assembled configuration in which the platform rests on the top of the cabinet and the upright is coupled to the platform. The cart has a disassembled configuration wherein the upright is positioned adjacent to the front, rear or sides of the cabinet while the platform is positioned adjacent to the top or bottom of the cabinet.