Repositional storage shelf
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems for kitchen cabinets are inefficient due to limited access, wasted space, and flimsy construction, as they lack a third rotation position for visualization and require additional space when adding units, leading to accessibility issues and instability.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage shelf with repositionable shelves that can be rotated 90 degrees for easy access, featuring snap-in shelves at various levels, magnetic coupling for seamless addition, and a cam/track system that allows 90-degree rotation without interfering with adjacent units, providing structural rigidity and efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a storage rack is pulled out and rotated to provide easy access, then accessibility is improved, but a band of wasted space is required between each storage module
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack employs rounded corner design on the rack bodies, allowing the racks to be pulled out and rotated without requiring excessive clearance space. The curved geometry enables smooth movement and rotation paths that minimize the space needed for operation, eliminating the need for large gaps between adjacent storage modules.
2Quantity of substance
If additional storage units are added to expand capacity, then storage capacity is improved, but structural stability deteriorates due to flimsy construction
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack is constructed from composite materials including a rigid outer shell made from durable plastic or metal composite, providing both strength and stability. The combination of different materials creates a structure that maintains rigidity even when multiple units are stacked or added, preventing the flimsy construction issue.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is divided into modular rack units that can be independently assembled and stacked. Each module is designed with reinforced connection points and interlocking features that maintain structural integrity when multiple units are combined, allowing capacity expansion without compromising stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the storage rack is designed with flat thin rectangular shapes for simplicity, then manufacturing is easier, but the finished product becomes flimsy and unstable
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of flat thin rectangular shapes, the storage rack incorporates curved and rounded geometric features in its design. These curved elements provide inherent structural strength and rigidity while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through molding or forming processes, eliminating the flimsiness associated with flat thin-walled constructions.
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 storage system enhances accessibility, eliminates wasted space, and provides a stable and flexible storage solution that can be easily expanded, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of items without compromising structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic coupling for seamless addition
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system, the system is disclosed having a base; a slot in the base; a spline that slides along the base; a plurality of latches in the spline; a plurality of shelves snapped into the plurality of latches; a cam attached to a bottom of the spline, wherein the cam is slidably inserted into the slot in the base and guides spline along a path along the base.