Storage assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage solutions fail to efficiently subdivide floor workspace areas without using separate partitions or walls, while also being aesthetically pleasing and highly reconfigurable.
Innovation Solution
A storage assembly with a top and bottom wall, internal and external end walls, and a frame assembly that interfits with adjacent assemblies at an angular orientation, allowing for maximum space utilization and easy reconfiguration without separate partitions, featuring a handle for mobility and a frame assembly for structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional storage solutions are used, then storage capacity is provided, but they fail to efficiently subdivide floor workspace areas and require separate partitions or walls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the storage function with the partition function into a single integrated unit. The storage assembly includes storage compartments for storing items and end surfaces configured to interfit with adjacent assemblies, eliminating the need for separate partition walls. This combination directly resolves the contradiction by providing both storage capacity and space subdivision capability within one device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides storage capacity through its compartments while also serving as a space-dividing element through its interfitting end surfaces. The assembly can be configured in various arrangements (linear, angular, curved) to adapt to different workspace layouts, enhancing its versatility without requiring additional separate components.
2Area of stationary object
If storage assemblies are arranged to closely interfit, then floor space is minimized, but reconfigurability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is divided into multiple independent, modular assemblies that can be easily connected and disconnected. Each assembly has standardized end surfaces for interfitting, allowing them to be arranged in different configurations (linear rows, angular patterns, curved arrangements) while maintaining compact floor space utilization. This segmentation enables both efficient space usage and flexible reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage assemblies are designed with mobile capabilities, allowing them to be moved and repositioned as needed. The interfitting connection between assemblies enables dynamic reconfiguration of the storage system layout without permanent fixation, allowing the system to adapt to changing workspace requirements while maintaining compact arrangement when configured.
3Ease of operation
If storage assemblies are made highly mobile for easy movement, then structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular assemblies with standardized connection interfaces. When multiple assemblies are connected through their interfitting end surfaces, they form a stable collective structure while each individual assembly remains mobile and can be easily moved or repositioned independently, resolving the contradiction between individual mobility and collective stability.
Solution Approach 2:
When storage assemblies are connected through their interfitting end surfaces, they merge to form a stable, interconnected structure. The combined structure provides structural stability while each assembly retains its mobile characteristics, allowing the system to be reconfigured by moving individual units while maintaining overall structural integrity when assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage assembly includes top and bottom walls, a pair of end walls extending between the top and bottom walls and cooperating with the top and bottom walls to define an interior space, and at least one end surface configured to closely interfit with at least one end surface of an adjacent storage assembly that is substantially similar to the storage assembly at a predefined angular orientation such that a longitudinal axis of the storage assembly is angularly offset from a longitudinal axis of the adjacent storage assembly when the at least one end surface of the storage assembly is interfit with the at least one surface of the adjacent storage assembly The storage assembly may also include a pair of interior walls and a handle relief extending into the top wall and/or a frame assembly located between one of the end walls and one of the interior walls.