Shelf with plug-in structures

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tablets lack simplicity and cost-effectiveness, with complex frame structures and non-interchangeable components, which hinders their usability and maintainability.

Innovation Solution

A tablet design featuring a double-layer lower or upper thigh section that increases stability and torsional stiffness, with interchangeable floor slabs and assembly elements, and a Z-shaped leg configuration for enhanced support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a complex frame structure is used, then structural stability is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into modular components: a base plate with integrated base legs, and separate structural elements (side walls, rear wall, front wall) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing of individual parts while achieving overall structural stability through the standardized connection system with corner posts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base plate serves multiple functions: it provides the foundational support surface, integrates the base legs for stability, and incorporates mounting features for structural elements. The corner posts serve as universal connection points that can accommodate various wall configurations and drawer components, reducing the need for specialized parts.

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

2Strength

If components are made non-interchangeable, then structural integrity is improved, but ease of repair and maintenance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidcomponent replaceability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The drawer is divided into replaceable modules: the base plate remains as the permanent foundation, while structural elements (walls, dividers) and corner posts can be independently removed and replaced. This modular design maintains structural integrity during assembly while enabling easy replacement of worn or damaged components without replacing the entire drawer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If a single-layer leg section is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but stability and torsional rigidity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidtorsional rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The leg sections are constructed as composite structures with an inner leg section and an outer leg section, creating a multi-layer configuration that increases torsional rigidity and stability. This composite design provides enhanced mechanical properties while remaining manufacturable through standard sheet metal forming and joining processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

4Stability of the object's composition

If wall elements extend completely around the base plate, then structural stability is improved, but material usage and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmaterial usage
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Wall elements are provided selectively at specific locations based on functional requirements rather than uniformly around the entire base plate. Side walls, rear walls, and front walls can be configured to extend partially or completely along end faces, allowing material to be used only where structural support or enclosure is needed, optimizing the balance between stability and material efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4094626B1Shelf with plug-in structures
Publication Date: 2025.04.30 ANTON SCHNEIDER GMBH
  • EP4094626B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~2
  • EP4094626B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~4
  • EP4094626B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A shelf (1) with a rectangular base plate (2) and with a rectangular profile frame (3) surrounding the base plate (2), which has an inner base leg (4) that at least partially circumferentially, on which the base plate (2) rests and can be fastened, according to the invention has an outer leg (5) adjoining the outer side of the base leg (4) and circumferentially circumferentially, which has an upper leg section (6) extending above the base leg (4) and a lower leg section (7) extending below the base leg (4) and is preferably oriented at right angles to the base leg (4), wherein an upwardly open circumferential joint (8) for fastening, in particular inserting or guiding, assembly elements (9, 18) is provided between the upper leg section (6) and the base plate (2).