Modular Shelving Structure With Dual Shelf Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular shelving structures face challenges with complex assembly and dismantling, stability issues due to loose bolts, limited flexibility in using different types of shelves, and high costs, as well as restricted configuration options due to specialized slots and hooks.
Innovation Solution
A modular shelving structure that combines conventional bolted and interlocked anchoring systems, allowing for multiple configurations with both types of shelves, featuring removable joint members and screw/bolt anchoring, enabling easy assembly and flexible use with adjustable post orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional bolted anchoring is used, then shelves can be securely fixed to posts, but assembly and dismantling become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system is segmented into two independent types: bolted anchoring for secure fixed shelves, and interlocking anchoring for quick-change shelves. This segmentation allows each anchoring type to optimize its specific function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between secure fixation and easy assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The post structure incorporates both bolted and interlocking anchoring capabilities universally, allowing the same post to support both types of shelves. This multi-functionality enables the shelving system to accommodate different shelf types and assembly requirements without requiring separate post designs.
2Ease of operation
If specialized slots and hooks are used for interlocking, then assembly becomes simple and stable, but flexibility to use different shelf types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The post design incorporates both interlocking slots and bolted mounting holes, creating a universal anchoring system that accepts both interlocking shelves and traditional bolted shelves. This universality maintains assembly simplicity through the interlocking option while preserving flexibility to use different shelf types.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system is divided into two independent pathways: interlocking anchoring for simple assembly and bolted anchoring for flexibility. This segmentation allows users to choose the appropriate anchoring method based on their specific needs, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and versatility.
3Reliability
If bolts are used for anchoring, then shelves can be securely fixed, but bolts may loosen over time affecting structure stability
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking anchoring system uses a self-adjusting mechanism where the shelf bracket automatically engages with the post slot and locks in place through its own weight and geometry. This self-service locking mechanism eliminates the need for separate fastening elements that can loosen, providing long-term stability without maintenance.
4Ease of operation
If posts have specially shaped slots for single positioning direction, then interlocking engagement is achieved, but configuration possibilities are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The post design incorporates both specially shaped slots for interlocking engagement and traditional holes for bolted mounting, creating a universal structure that accepts multiple positioning directions and shelf types. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between achieving reliable interlocking and maintaining configuration flexibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular shelves structure comprises a plurality of elongated posts (2, 2', 2", 2"') designed to be assembled in substantially vertical and mutually parallel positions, a plurality of shelves (5, 8) each having a main wall (6, 10) with a peripheral folded edge (6', 10'), and designed to be removably anchored to the posts (2, 2', 2", 2"') in a substantially horizontal position; first joint anchoring means (7) for removable anchoring of at least one first shelf (5) to the posts (2, 2', 2", 2'"), the first anchoring means (7) comprising at least one first joint member (12) associated with each post (2, 2', 2", 2"') and at least one second joint member (15) associated with the first shelf (5) and adapted to be selectively coupled to a first joint member (12), second anchoring means (9) for removable anchoring using screws or the like, having at least one first hole or slot (16, 17) associated with each post (2, 2', 2", 2"') and at least one second hole or slot (19, 20) associated with the peripheral edge (10') of at least one additional shelf (8) separate from the first shelf (5) and adapted to be firmly coupled to a first hole or slot (16, 17) by means of a screw (18) or the like.