Storage apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage apparatuses for tools lack efficient mechanisms to transition between compact and expanded configurations, leading to instability and limited mobility.
Innovation Solution
A storage apparatus with rotatable trays connected by a shaft, featuring wheel assemblies and a base element that adjusts coverage area based on tray positioning, allowing for smooth transition between overlapping and spread configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If trays are arranged in overlapping configuration for compact storage, then storage space efficiency is improved, but stability deteriorates due to reduced wheel coverage area
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing wheels to be positioned in different locations based on the tray configuration. When trays are in overlapping compact storage mode, the wheels position themselves to provide optimal stability for that configuration, and when trays are spread out, the wheels reposition to maintain stability in the expanded configuration.
2Ease of operation
If trays are spread out to increase accessibility, then ease of operation is improved, but mobility deteriorates due to increased wheel coverage area
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly dynamically adjusts its configuration based on tray position. When trays need to be accessed (spread out configuration), the wheels extend to provide stability during operation. When mobility is needed (compact configuration), the wheels retract to minimize coverage area and facilitate easier movement of the entire apparatus.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed wheel assembly is used for stability, then stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to adjust to different tray configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly incorporates movable components that can be positioned at different locations along the tray structure. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same wheel assembly to provide optimal stability support for both compact overlapping configurations and expanded spread-out configurations, eliminating the need for different wheel assemblies for different modes.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage apparatus includes trays, a shaft, a base element and two wheel assemblies. The shaft is inserted in the trays to connect the trays to one another so that each of the trays is rotatable between a withdrawn position and a spread position relative to a lower one of the trays. The base element is attached to the shaft. The base element is connected to a second one of the trays by a connecting element. The base element is located below the lowermost tray when the trays overlap one another. The first wheel assembly includes wheels attached to the lowermost tray. The second wheel assembly includes wheels attached to the base element. The wheels cover a first area when the trays overlap one another and cover a second area when the trays fully spread from one another. The first area is smaller than the second area.