Modular Wall Frame Assembly for Shelving Without Exposed Studs

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a modular frame assembly that can be attached to walls without exposed vertical studs, allowing for the installation of shelving systems like the one described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,560,914, in locations where traditional stud-based attachment methods are not feasible.

Innovation Solution

A modular frame assembly comprising various connecting pieces, including coupling connectors, tee connectors, corner connectors, and elongate members, which can be assembled to form a rectangular structure and securely attached to the wall using screws, allowing for the installation of shelving systems in areas without exposed studs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional stud-based attachment methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the method is not feasible in locations without exposed vertical studs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to walls without exposed studsVSAvoidsecure attachment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is divided into multiple separate components including vertical frame members, horizontal frame members, and connecting pieces that can be assembled together to form a complete structure. This segmentation allows the system to be configured for walls without exposed studs while maintaining attachment security through distributed connection points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame assembly acts as an intermediary structure between the wall and the shelving system. The connecting pieces with multiple attachment features provide intermediate connection points that enable secure attachment to walls without requiring exposed vertical studs, thereby mediating between the wall surface and the shelving load.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a modular frame assembly is used to attach to walls without studs, then adaptability is improved, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to various wall configurationsVSAvoidcomplexity of frame assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting pieces are designed with multiple attachment features and configurations that enable them to serve multiple functions - connecting vertical and horizontal members, providing attachment points for shelving, and adapting to different wall configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for numerous specialized components, thereby managing complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame members and connecting pieces are designed to fit together in a nested manner, where horizontal members connect to vertical members through integrated connection features. This nesting approach allows complex structures to be built from simpler individual components that interlock, reducing overall system complexity while achieving the required adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10982699B2Modular frame assembly

Publication Date: 2021.04.20 BRIGHT STEVE

AI summary

The present invention provides modular frame assembly including a plurality of connecting pieces. The connecting pieces can include a first plurality of coupling connectors, a second plurality of tee connectors, a third plurality of corner connectors, and a fourth plurality of elongate members. Each of the plurality of connecting pieces is adapted to receive at least two elongate members such that a rectangular structure can be constructed from the plurality of connecting pieces.