Modular Wire Shelf Width Adjustment for Variable Cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wire shelving systems are not adaptable to different cabinet widths, requiring substantial customization or additional space when trying to fit a shelf system of one width into a cabinet of another width.
Innovation Solution
A modular wire shelf design featuring central members, side end members, and slide members that allow for adjustable width configurations by engaging and disengaging rods, enabling the shelf to be easily expanded or contracted to fit various cabinet widths, with optional use of ladder mounts for additional support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wire shelf system is designed for a specific cabinet width, then the shelf structure is simple and stable, but the shelf cannot be adapted to cabinets of different widths
Solution Approach 1:
The wire shelf is divided into multiple modular components including end members, central members, and intermediate members that can be assembled in different combinations. Each module contains standardized rod engagement features, allowing the shelf width to be adjusted by adding or removing central members between the fixed end members, thus achieving adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the shelf structure
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf modules are designed with universal engagement features where rods from central members can be inserted into hollow rods of end members or other central members. This standardized interface allows the same modular components to function in various shelf width configurations and potentially in different shelf depths, providing multi-functionality and adaptability across different cabinet dimensions
2Adaptability or versatility
If a shelf system is customized to fit a specific cabinet width, then the shelf fits perfectly, but substantial customization effort and additional space are required
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf modules are pre-designed with standardized rod engagement features and dimensions during manufacturing. The end members, central members, and intermediate members are produced with predetermined rod locations and hollow rod configurations, so that when installation is needed, the user simply needs to assemble the pre-fabricated modules rather than customize components on-site, significantly reducing installation and customization time
3Ease of operation
If the shelf uses removable engagement between rods, then the shelf width is easily adjustable, but the connection strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism employs a nested structure where solid rods from central members are inserted into hollow rods of end members or other central members. This nested arrangement provides substantial connection strength through the interference fit and structural integration of the rods, while still allowing for easy assembly and disassembly by simply inserting or removing the solid rods from the hollow rods, thus maintaining both strength and ease of adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
A storage solution uses wire shelves where the width of the wire shelves can be customized by a user by adding one or more central members between two end members. Thus, the shelving can be installed in one cabinet having a first width, and moved, if desired, to a cabinet of a different width by adding or removing central members from the shelf. Further, a manufacturer can provide a variety of shelf sizes by simply varying the number of central members that are provided. The shelving may be attached at each end to a slide to permit one or more shelves to extend outward from the inside of a cabinet.