Rack Rail Assembly Using T-Shaped Slots for Tool-Free Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frame kits require tools for secure insertion and assembly of rails, which complicates the process and may lead to instability during use.
Innovation Solution
The kit features T-shaped recesses in the side members and U-shaped rails with a nose, allowing for tool-free insertion and secure locking of rails, enabling easy assembly and disassembly by leveraging the geometric fit between the recesses and rail edges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional insertion methods are used for rails into side members, then secure locking is achieved, but tool usage is required which complicates the assembly process
Solution Approach 1:
The rail assembly system is designed to be self-servicing through the interaction between the T-shaped recess and U-shaped rail cross-section. The geometry of these components enables automatic locking when the rail is inserted into the side member, eliminating the need for external tools or additional fastening mechanisms. The U-shaped flange engages with the T-shaped recess to provide secure retention purely through the structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The T-shaped recess and U-shaped rail cross-section create an asymmetric geometric fit that enables directional insertion and secure locking. The asymmetric geometry ensures the rail can be inserted in the correct orientation and automatically locks into position, preventing removal without tools while maintaining ease of assembly.
2Productivity
If traditional fastening methods are used, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly system performs its own fastening function through the geometric interlocking of T-shaped recesses and U-shaped rails. This self-service mechanism enables rapid assembly and disassembly without requiring external fasteners or tools, significantly improving productivity while maintaining frame stability through the inherent structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into modular components (side members with T-shaped recesses and separate U-shaped rails) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows for quick assembly by simply inserting the rails into the recesses, while the geometric fit ensures stable connections without requiring additional fastening operations.
3Ease of operation
If simple insertion methods are used, then ease of assembly is achieved, but locking security is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric T-shaped recess and U-shaped rail geometry provides both ease of insertion and secure retention. The U-shaped flange fits into the T-shaped recess in a simple insertion motion, while the asymmetric geometry creates mechanical interlocking that prevents accidental dislodgement or movement, ensuring reliable retention without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system automatically provides secure locking through the geometric fit between the T-shaped recess and U-shaped rail. The structure itself performs the locking function without requiring additional components or complex operations, achieving both simplicity and reliability simultaneously.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly kit for building a rack, comprising a plurality of longitudinal members (10, 12) to be arranged vertically, a plurality of cross members to be arranged horizontally, a plurality of node elements that connect said longitudinal members and cross members to each other, and a plurality of rails (14) that accommodate rack bottoms, drawers, and the like, wherein the longitudinal members (10, 12) are provided with holes (18) used to hook in the rails (14) on the first lateral surfaces (16) of the longitudinal members facing each other, wherein the holes (18) in the longitudinal members (10, 12) are T-shaped in the top view and the vertically extending section of the T-shaped holes (18) forms breakouts (20) in the lateral surfaces adjacent to the first lateral surfaces (16), the rails (14) are longer than the open distance of a front longitudinal member (10) from a rear longitudinal member (12) by the depth of the breakouts (20) and are provided with U-shaped folded edges (24, 25), the open width of which corresponds to the sections (22) remaining in the first later surface (10) on both sides of the vertically extending part of the T-shaped holes (18), and the width of the vertically extending section of the T-shaped hole (18) corresponds to the length of the free leg (24) of the U-shaped folded edge (24, 25).