Interchangeable Rack Modules With Self-Aligning Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rack systems are limited in their ability to accommodate a variety of container types and numbers, requiring multiple racks for different containers and lacking flexibility in configuration and customization.
Innovation Solution
A modular rack system comprising interchangeable rack modules with engagement features that allow for removably attaching multiple modules, enabling customization of receptacle configuration and orientation to accommodate diverse container sizes and shapes, and allowing for adjustable length by adding or removing modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rack is designed to hold a specific type, shape, or size of container, then it provides stable and reliable container support, but it cannot accommodate different types of containers
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is divided into multiple interchangeable modules, each designed to hold specific container types. Users can select and combine modules based on their container needs, allowing the rack to adapt to different container types without requiring a completely different rack structure. This segmentation enables versatility while keeping each individual module relatively simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack modules are designed with standardized interfaces and universal mounting mechanisms that allow the same base rack structure to support multiple types of modules. Each module can be configured for different container types, sizes, or arrangements, making the overall rack system multi-functional and adaptable to various laboratory needs without increasing fundamental complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple racks are used to accommodate different container types, then each container type has dedicated support, but the number of racks and space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single rack structure is designed to universally accommodate multiple module types through standardized interfaces. Users can configure the rack to hold different container types by swapping modules rather than using separate racks, thereby reducing the total number of racks needed and minimizing the space occupied by rack systems in the laboratory.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple rack functions are merged into a single integrated rack system. By combining various module types (each optimized for different container types) into one rack structure with universal mounting capabilities, the system consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate racks, thus reducing the overall footprint and space requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rack modules are made interchangeable with engagement features, then the rack system becomes flexible and customizable, but the complexity of ensuring proper alignment and connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement features utilize asymmetric geometries with complementary shapes that guide module alignment during insertion. The asymmetric design ensures that modules can only be connected in the correct orientation, providing self-alignment and preventing misconnection. This maintains connection reliability while enabling flexible reconfiguration, as users don't need to worry about improper alignment when swapping modules.
4Ease of manufacture
If standardized receptacles are used across all racks, then manufacturing becomes simpler, but customization for different container sizes and shapes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle system is segmented into standardized base components and customizable module-specific adaptations. The standardized base ensures ease of manufacture through mass production, while module-specific variations (added to or integrated with the base) provide customization for different container sizes and shapes. This segmentation allows both economical manufacturing and tailored functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
While maintaining standardized receptacle bases for uniform manufacturing, local quality variations are introduced at the module level. Each module can incorporate specific receptacle modifications, materials, or geometries suited to particular container types, while the overall standardized interface ensures consistent manufacturing processes. This allows customization where needed without sacrificing manufacturing efficiency for the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects include a rack module comprising a side including one or more receptacles. A receptacle may include a contact surface shaped to receive a container. A rack module may include one or more engagement features operable to removably attach the rack module to another rack module having complementary engagement features. The other rack module may also have a side including one or more receptacles, and the attached rack modules may commonly orient their respective receptacles such that the containers received therein may be used.