Pivot Block Design for Quick-Repair Foldable Shelving Units
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable shelving systems for vehicles require complex assembly and lengthy repair times, particularly when components like gas springs fail, necessitating a solution for easier assembly and quicker repair.
Innovation Solution
A pivot block designed for foldable shelving units that includes a body with securing portions for a gas spring and a support beam, featuring a pivot point for smooth rotation between horizontal and vertical positions, allowing for easy attachment and detachment, and utilizing an over-center spring design to manage shelf load effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional foldable shelving systems are used, then the shelves can be folded and stored, but the assembly and repair process requires several hours and multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system is divided into modular components (shelves, pivot blocks, securing portions) that can be independently assembled and replaced. The pivot block serves as a standardized interface component that simplifies the connection between shelves and support structures, enabling quick assembly without complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot block design with multiple securing portions serves multiple functions: it acts as a pivot point for folding motion, provides mounting locations for gas springs, and offers attachment points for shelves. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing assembly time and complexity.
2Ease of repair
If traditional foldable shelving systems are used, then the shelves can be folded and stored, but the repair process takes several hours when components fail
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into replaceable modules where failed components (such as gas springs or pivot blocks) can be independently accessed and replaced without disassembling the entire shelving structure. The standardized pivot block design with external securing portions allows for tool-free or minimal-tool replacement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas spring and other components are extracted as separate, externally accessible elements that can be removed and replaced independently from the main shelf structure. The securing portions are designed to allow easy detachment of these components, enabling rapid repair operations.
3Reliability
If a pivot block with multiple securing portions is used, then the shelf can be securely attached, but the pivot block design becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple securing functions are merged into a single integrated pivot block component. Rather than using separate brackets, mounts, and fastening mechanisms, all securing portions are combined into one piece that attaches to the support structure and provides multiple attachment points for shelves and gas springs.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot block is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: providing a pivot axis for folding, offering mounting points for gas springs, and serving as an attachment interface for shelves. This consolidation reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining secure attachment capabilities.
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 pivot block facilitates quick assembly and repair of foldable shelving systems by enabling easy attachment and detachment of components, reducing assembly time and enhancing the system's durability to handle heavy loads, while also simplifying the replacement of gas springs.
Implementation Method 1
The pivot block includes a first securing portion configured to be secured to a gas spring
Implementation Method 2
The pivot block is configured to assist a shelf of the foldable shelving unit to pivot at the pivot point between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
A pivot block for a foldable shelving unit is disclosed. The pivot block includes a body having a first end, a second end, a top edge, a bottom edge, and a cutout portion positioned between the top edge and the bottom edge. The pivot block further includes a first securing portion located at the first end, the first securing portion configured to be secured to a spring, and a second securing portion located at the second end, the second securing portion configured to be secured to a portion of the foldable shelving unit. The pivot block also includes a pivot point located within the cutout portion. The pivot block is configured to assist a shelf of the foldable shelving unit to pivot at the pivot point between a first position and a second position.