Modular workbench system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional workbench systems lack mobility, organization efficiency, and ease of use, particularly in terms of packaging and adaptability, as they are often bulky and require extensive assembly and disassembly for reconfiguration.

Innovation Solution

A modular workbench system featuring nestable cabinets and detachable accessory components with magnetic couplings, allowing for compact packaging, easy reconfiguration, and improved mobility, along with adjustable shelves and support mechanisms for enhanced organization and task flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If conventional workbench systems are permanently installed, then stability and structural integrity are improved, but mobility and reconfigurability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidreconfigurability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The workbench system is divided into separate modular components including cabinets, shelves, and accessory components that can be independently positioned and reconfigured. Each component maintains structural integrity through robust design while enabling flexibility through detachable connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static permanent installation to dynamic reconfigurable assembly through detachable coupling mechanisms. Components can be easily attached and detached, allowing the workbench to adapt to different spatial requirements and organizational needs while maintaining stability during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If conventional workbench systems are designed for durability, then strength and reliability are improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent durabilityVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The workbench is segmented into standardized modules with uniform coupling interfaces. This segmentation allows durable components to be pre-manufactured and tested for strength, while the standardized interfaces enable quick and easy assembly without compromising structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Universal coupling mechanisms are designed to provide both strong mechanical attachment for durability and simple operation for ease of assembly. The same coupling system serves multiple functions including structural connection, alignment, and rapid detachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If workbench components are packaged separately, then ease of transportation is improved, but device complexity and assembly time worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransportation easeVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Smaller workbench components such as cabinets and shelves are designed to nest within larger components during packaging and transportation. This nesting arrangement reduces shipping volume and simplifies handling while the standardized coupling interfaces ensure that assembly remains straightforward despite the modular segmented design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 system enables efficient transportation, easy reconfiguration, and improved task flexibility by allowing cabinets to be nested for compact storage and accessory components to be easily attached and detached, enhancing mobility and organization in various work environments.

Implementation Method 1

detachable accessory components with magnetic couplings, allowing for compact packaging, easy reconfiguration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS20230218080A1Modular workbench system
Publication Date: 2023.07.13 WHIRLPOOL CORP
  • US20230218080A1 patent drawing
  • US20230218080A1 patent drawing
  • US20230218080A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular workbench system, a packaged modular workbench system, accessory components, and a universal mounting system are shown and described. The systems and components described herein can provide for improved mobility, organization, ease of use, convenience, and packaging efficiency.