Modular Storage Device with Adjustable Shim Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage devices for parts are not adaptable to parts with varying geometries and dimensions, requiring specific, non-modifiable spacer plates that become obsolete if part dimensions change, limiting their versatility and leading to waste.
Innovation Solution
A modular storage device with intermediate plates featuring adjustable wedging elements that can be fixed in various positions and shapes, allowing for stable positioning of parts with different geometries and dimensions, and enabling the same plate to store both identical and diverse parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a specific intermediate plate is designed to accommodate a single type of part with fixed geometry and dimensions, then the part can be stably positioned, but the plate becomes obsolete and must be destroyed if part dimensions change
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate plate is divided into a modular structure with a base plate and separate adjustable support elements. The support elements can be independently positioned and adjusted to accommodate different part geometries, allowing the same base plate to serve multiple part types without becoming obsolete.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements are designed to be adjustable and repositionable rather than fixed. This dynamic capability allows the plate configuration to adapt to varying part dimensions and geometries, maintaining stability while improving versatility.
2Reliability
If a one-piece intermediate plate with specific compartments is used, then parts can be held in predefined positions, but the plate cannot store parts with slightly different geometries and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The plate is segmented into modular components including adjustable support elements that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows different support elements to be arranged to accommodate various part geometries while maintaining stable positioning for each part type.
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple part types through the use of adjustable support elements. The same base plate serves multiple functions by reconfiguring the support elements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated plates for different part geometries.
3Reliability
If intermediate plates are designed for specific part types, then stable positioning is achieved, but multiple specific plates are required for different part types, increasing complexity and resource consumption
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal base plate design can accommodate multiple part types through adjustable support elements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized plates. This reduces device complexity and resource consumption while maintaining stable positioning capability through proper support element configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable support elements can be repositioned and reused for different part types rather than requiring disposal of entire plates when part dimensions change. This recovery and reuse approach reduces the number of plates needed and minimizes waste.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a device for storing parts (14, 15, 20, 26, 30, 31, 32), comprising at least one spacer plate (1) comprising locations each intended to receive one of the parts (14, 5, 20, 26, 30, 31, 32). The main feature of a storage device according to the invention is that the plate (1) comprises two sides each provided with a plurality of imprints (5, 6), and that the device comprises shim elements (11, 3, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29, 33) of different shapes and dimensions. The shim elements are suitable for being positioned in the imprints (5, 6) and engaging with the parts (14, 15, 20, 26, 30, 31, 32), so as to position each of the parts (14, 15, 20, 26, 30, 31, 32) in a stable manner in a location on the plate (1).