Modular Support Element for Vertical Slab Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for large-dimension slab-shaped objects, such as ceramic slabs, are inefficient in maximizing storage and transport capacity due to weight limitations and large, cumbersome designs that restrict the number of slabs that can be stacked and increase shipping costs.
Innovation Solution
A support element with a base and a removable rest element that allows slab-shaped objects to be arranged vertically, reducing the risk of damage by distributing weight evenly and optimizing space utilization, featuring a stable and sturdy coupling mechanism that prevents horizontal movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If slabs are positioned horizontally on support benches, then the slabs are stable and easy to handle, but the number of slabs that can be stacked is limited due to weight constraints and the benches occupy large storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from horizontal stacking to vertical stacking by introducing upright support elements with horizontal rest surfaces. This dimensional change allows multiple slabs to be stacked vertically without increasing the horizontal footprint, thereby increasing storage density while maintaining slab stability through proper support geometry
2Quantity of substance
If more slabs are stacked horizontally on each bench, then storage capacity increases, but the weight of slabs causes breakage or damage to slabs at the bottom
Solution Approach 1:
By stacking slabs vertically on upright support elements rather than horizontally on benches, the weight load is distributed across multiple vertical levels. Each slab supports only its own weight plus the slabs above it, rather than bearing the cumulative weight of all slabs on the bench, thereby preventing bottom slab damage while increasing overall storage capacity
3Ease of operation
If benches have large plan dimensions to accommodate slabs, then slabs can be stored, but the benches are difficult to shift and occupy excessive storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the support system into discrete, modular upright elements with standardized dimensions. These segmented units can be individually handled and repositioned, making the overall structure more mobile compared to large monolithic benches. The modular design also allows flexible arrangement to optimize storage space utilization
4Adaptability or versatility
If crates and racks have large dimensions when empty, then they can accommodate slabs, but shipping costs increase for the end user
Solution Approach 1:
The upright support elements are designed to nest within each other when not in use, creating a compact configuration for transport. This nesting capability allows the support structures to occupy minimal space during shipping, directly reducing transportation costs while maintaining full capacity when deployed for slab storage
Data Source
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AI summary
A support element (1; 10; 20; 30) for slab-shaped objects, comprising a base (2) and a rest element (7) which can be coupled removably to the base (2); wherein the base (2) comprises a plurality of longitudinal members (3, 3a, 4, 4a, 4b, 4) which defines a rest base for the base (2); in which the longitudinal members (3, 3a, 4, 4a, 4b, 4) are interconnected by a plurality of cross members (5, 6) interconnected by a plurality of further longitudinal members (11, 11a, 15, 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e, 15f). The rest element (7) comprises at least two uprights (8, 8a; 18) interconnected by at least a further cross member (12; 13; 13a, 13b; 14; 14a; 14b). A lower portion (22) of the first upright (8) and a lower portion (22a) of the second upright (8a) extend beyond the at least a further lower cross member (14; 14a, 14b) and are conformed and dimensioned so as to be able to insert, respectively, in a first space (16) defined between the central cross members (5) and the first pair of further lateral longitudinal members (11), and in a second space (17) defined between the central cross members (5) and the second pair of further lateral longitudinal members (11a); the lower portion (22) of the first upright (8) and a lower portion (22a) of the second upright (8a) are provided with respective appendages (23, 23a), and the appendages (23, 23a) are conformed and dimensioned so as to be able to insert in respective grooves (20, 20a) of the lateral longitudinal members (3, 3a).