Modular Shelf Assembly With Edge Positioning for Flat Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular systems for box-shaped units are complicated to assemble, lack flexibility, and are impaired by visible joining elements that disrupt the plane surface, making them unsuitable for versatile storage and display applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular system with positioning means placed along the edges of the modules and fastening means on the extension panels, allowing for secure and flexible connection of modules with optional additional shelves and visual differentiation, enabling easy assembly, stability, and aesthetic continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a groove/recess system is used to join box-shaped units, then the modules can be connected to form a storage unit, but the assembly process becomes complicated and lacks flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The joining system is segmented into separate positioning means (protrusions) and receiving means (recesses) located at the periphery of each module. This segmentation allows for simpler assembly compared to the complex groove/recess system that requires precise alignment of entire edges, while maintaining reliable connection through the distributed positioning elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning means are pre-positioned at the periphery of each module during manufacturing, allowing for quick and easy assembly by simply aligning and engaging the protrusions with the recesses. This eliminates the need for complex assembly procedures required by the groove/recess system.
2Reliability
If joining elements are placed at the middle of the top or bottom board, then modules can be connected, but the joining elements are visible and impair the plane surface
Solution Approach 1:
The joining elements (positioning means) are extracted from the center of the top or bottom boards and relocated to the periphery of the modules. This extraction allows the plane surfaces to remain intact and visually appealing while maintaining connection stability through the peripheral positioning means that engage with corresponding recesses.
Solution Approach 2:
The joining function is moved from the vertical dimension (center of top/bottom boards) to the horizontal dimension (periphery edges). This dimensional change allows the joining elements to be positioned at the edges where they do not interfere with the visual appearance of the plane surfaces, while still providing stable connections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If modules are connected by abutting edges with groove/recess systems, then a compact uniform partition construction is provided, but the system lacks flexibility in assembly configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning means are designed to be positioned at multiple locations along the periphery of each module, allowing for dynamic and flexible assembly configurations. Modules can be connected in various patterns (single row, multiple rows, different orientations) while maintaining structural uniformity through the consistent engagement of positioning means with corresponding recesses.
Solution Approach 2:
The peripheral positioning means serve multiple functions: they provide stable connections, enable various assembly configurations, and allow for easy expansion of the modular system. The same positioning means can accommodate different module arrangements and extensions without requiring additional joining mechanisms.
4Quantity of substance
If extension panels are added to create additional shelves, then storage capacity is increased, but the connection between extension panels and modules must be secure
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning means act as an intermediary between the extension panels and the modules. The extension panels are equipped with positioning means that engage with corresponding recesses in the modules, providing a secure connection without requiring additional fastening mechanisms. This intermediary positioning system ensures reliable attachment while maintaining the flexibility to add or remove extension panels as needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
Modular system (2) comprising at least two modules (1), said modules comprising a shelf top panel (3) and an oppositely placed shelf bottom panel (4), said two panels being mutually connected by a first shelf side panel (5) and an oppositely placed second shelf side panel (6) for providing a box-shaped module (1). Said module (1) comprises positioning means 89) adapted to position one module (1) to a second module (1), and the modular system (2) also comprises at least one extension panel (8), said extension panel (8) comprising fastening means adapted to engage with the positioning means, whereby the extension panel is secured.