Storage Rack Repair Braces for Onsite Recertified Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for repairing and maintaining pallet rack systems are costly and inefficient, requiring the removal of all load and disassembly for replacing damaged components, which can lead to increased costs and downtime, and often result in the need for full system replacement rather than repair.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing pre-certified, mechanically superior repair braces that can be installed onsite, allowing for automatic or semi-automatic recertification of the rack system, enabling the use of standard-sized braces to adapt to various configurations and locations, and using software for damage assessment and reporting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional repair methods are used to replace damaged rack components, then the damaged portion can be replaced, but the entire system must be disassembled and all load removed, resulting in high costs and extended downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The repair brace is designed as a segmented, modular component that can be independently installed at the damaged location without requiring disassembly of the entire rack system. The brace divides into adjustable segments that can be configured to fit specific damage scenarios while maintaining structural integrity of the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The repair brace acts as an intermediary structural element that bridges the damaged portion of the rack upright. It connects to the existing rack components at multiple points, distributing loads and providing structural support without requiring removal of the entire system or all load-bearing components.
2Ease of repair
If traditional repair methods are used to replace damaged rack components, then the damaged portion can be replaced, but full system disassembly is required, resulting in increased repair costs
Solution Approach 1:
The repair brace is designed as a universal component that can be applied to multiple different damage scenarios and rack configurations. Through adjustable length, angle, and connection points, a single brace design can serve multiple repair functions, eliminating the need for custom-manufactured replacement components for each specific damage case.
Solution Approach 2:
The repair brace incorporates adjustable parameters including length, angle of installation, and connection positions that can be modified based on the specific damage scenario. This allows the same basic component design to adapt to various repair needs without requiring custom manufacturing, reducing overall repair costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard-sized braces are used for repair, then versatility and adaptability improve, but precise fit for specific damage locations may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The repair brace incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through telescoping sections, adjustable angles, and movable connection points. This allows the standard-sized brace to be dynamically configured to achieve precise fit for specific damage locations while maintaining the benefits of a universal component design.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace includes pre-configured connection interfaces and adjustment mechanisms that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of adjustment capabilities allows for quick on-site customization to achieve precise fit without requiring complex field modifications or custom manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a new method, system, and process for the repair and management of repair of a rack system. More specifically the present disclosure relates to using braces of standard sizes, pre-Certified or not, as part of a new method, and process for the onsite repair of slightly damaged elements of wholesale or storage rack systems and associated process of qualification and certification thereof. Shaped repair braces, designed to be mechanically superior to damaged pieces they replace, allow for the off-site pre-certification, off-site selection, and installation of these braces with a possibility of automatic or semi-automatic recertification of the repaired rack system when the brace is added. The process also allows for the use of one or a set of pre-certified braces and under a controlled process of determination of which brace can be used (using a software or not) and resulting in pre-certification of the system once the brace is successfully put in place.