Modular Shelving Connector Assembly for Easy Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular shelving assemblies are difficult to assemble and have complex components, leading to unreliable performance.
Innovation Solution
The adjustable shelving assembly features L-shaped corner members with specific aperture configurations, interconnecting members with through holes, elongated retainers with grooves and shoulders, and lock pins with a circular head and shaft, allowing for secure fastening and easy assembly and disassembly through a friction fit mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular shelving assemblies use traditional connector designs with tracks and protrusions, then the shelving system provides adjustable height capability, but the assembly process becomes difficult and components become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional elements: a body with aperture members, retainers with groove-shoulder structures, and lock pins. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (alignment, retention, locking) while simplifying the overall assembly process and reducing inter-component complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer's groove and shoulder structures are nested within the connector body's aperture members. The lock pin is inserted through the retainer and connector body, creating a nested arrangement where smaller components fit within larger ones. This nesting reduces the number of separate parts needed and simplifies the connector assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular shelving assemblies use traditional connector designs with tracks and protrusions, then the shelving system provides adjustable height capability, but the assembly process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is pre-formed with groove and shoulder structures that automatically align with and engage the aperture members when components are assembled. The lock pin is designed with a head and shaft that automatically position itself during assembly, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures and making the assembly process easier.
Solution Approach 2:
The groove-shoulder structure of the retainer and the aperture members are designed to self-align and self-lock during assembly. The lock pin's head and shaft automatically engage with the through hole and aperture member, creating a self-servicing connection that reduces assembly difficulty without requiring specialized tools or procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular shelving assemblies use traditional connector designs with tracks and protrusions, then the shelving system provides adjustable height capability, but the system becomes unreliable in use
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer's groove and shoulder structures are designed to absorb and distribute mechanical stresses before they can cause failure. The groove provides a cushioning engagement surface for the aperture member, while the shoulder provides a stopping surface that prevents over-travel. This beforehand cushioning protects the connection from shock loads and cyclic stresses, improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary component between the connector body and the shelf or pole. The groove-shoulder structure mediates the connection by providing a buffered engagement that reduces direct stress transmission. The lock pin serves as an intermediary locking mechanism that secures the retainer in place, creating a reliable multi-stage connection that enhances overall system reliability.
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
This design simplifies the assembly process and enhances the reliability of the shelving system by providing a secure and flexible configuration that accommodates varying product sizes, while maintaining ease of use and adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
the groove of the retainer is clamped by the vertical hole of the aperture member
Implementation Method 2
a substantial portion of the lock pin is fastened in the larger circle of the aperture member and the through hole
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable shelving assembly is provided with four corner members of L-shaped cross section, either half of each corner member including aperture members each including an upper, larger circle and a lower, smaller, vertical hole overlapping the larger circle thereof; at least one group of four interconnecting members each including upper and lower aperture elements and a through hole between the aperture elements, each aperture element including an upper, smaller, vertical hole and a lower, larger circle overlapping the vertical hole thereof; elongated retainers each including two enlargements at both ends respectively, an annular groove adjacent to one enlargement, and an annular shoulder between the groove and the other enlargement; lock pins each having a substantial portion fastened in the larger circle of the aperture member and the through hole; and at least one flat shelf each anchored on tops of the interconnecting members.