Modular shelf system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional retail shelf systems lack configurability and integrated low-voltage illumination, limiting their ability to adapt to various product displays and providing inadequate product visibility.
Innovation Solution
A modular retail shelf system with conductive support standards that allow for adjustable height and width configurations, enabling the integration of LED lighting through electrical conduction, which can be easily assembled and customized for different display needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional non-illuminated shelf systems are used, then the system structure is simple and cost-effective, but product visibility and display effectiveness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines structural support standards with electrical conduction functionality into a single integrated component. The conductive support standards serve dual purposes: providing mechanical support for shelves and conducting electrical current to power LED illumination fixtures, thereby merging structural and electrical functions to improve product visibility without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive support standards are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: structural support, electrical conduction, and configurability for different display arrangements. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide illumination while maintaining structural integrity and adaptability, resolving the contradiction between added functionality and system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed configuration shelf systems are used, then manufacturing and installation are straightforward, but adaptability to various product displays is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf system is divided into modular components including uprights, conductive support standards, and interchangeable fixtures that can be independently manufactured and then assembled in various configurations. This segmentation enables adaptability to different display needs while keeping individual manufacturing processes relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as vertically adjustable support standards and interchangeable fixtures that allow the display configuration to be dynamically changed based on product requirements, maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized connection interfaces
3Illumination intensity
If integrated LED illumination is added to shelves, then product visibility is enhanced, but installation effort and electrical integration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the electrical conduction function into the structural support standards, the patent eliminates the need for separate electrical wiring infrastructure. The conductive standards directly conduct power from the power source to LED fixtures mounted on shelves, significantly reducing installation effort while providing integrated illumination
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular system provides flexible and efficient product display solutions with enhanced visibility through adjustable configurations and integrated LED illumination, reducing installation effort and improving product presentation.
Implementation Method 1
electrical conduction through the modular shelf system to illuminate lighting fixtures integrated into the modular retail shelf system
Data Source
AI summary
The present application provides, in one embodiment, a modular shelf system having spaced apart upright subassemblies that each include a first and second removable support standard recessed within. The system further provides at least one shelf fixture configured to be removably mounted to at least one of the support standards in each of a first and second upright subassemblies selected. The shelf may receive retail product trays via snap-fit fasteners. And, a variably configurable hanger bar may support the modular shelf system.