Rotating Shoe Carousel Shelves for Space-Saving Shoe Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shoe storage racks are inefficient in terms of space usage, visibility, and maintenance, as they often become overcrowded, leading to scuff marks and dust accumulation, and do not allow for easy observation or distinction of shoes.
Innovation Solution
A shoe carousel device with a rotating stand and stackable shelves that hold shoes in an angled orientation, using a combination of materials like wood, plastic, and non-slip mesh, and an optional motor with foot pedal for hands-free operation, allowing for efficient use of space and preventing scuffs through a raised outer rim with felt lining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional shoe storage racks are used, then shoes can be stored, but the racks take up substantial floor space and shoes are not easily observable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a conventional horizontal shoe rack to a vertical carousel structure. Shoes are arranged radially around a central vertical axis on multiple levels, utilizing vertical space rather than horizontal floor space. This dimensional change allows the same number of shoes to be stored in a much smaller footprint while improving visibility through the radial arrangement that displays shoe toes outward.
2Reliability
If conventional shoe racks are used, then shoes can be stored, but the racks become overcrowded leading to scuff marks and dust accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The carousel is divided into multiple discrete levels (typically 3-5 levels) with each level containing multiple radial shoe holders. This segmentation allows shoes to be distributed across different heights and radial positions, preventing overcrowding on any single surface. Each shoe has its own designated space with proper spacing, eliminating contact between shoes that causes scuff marks and reducing dust accumulation by improving air circulation around each pair.
3Ease of operation
If conventional shoe racks are used, then shoes can be stored, but access to shoes is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotating carousel mechanism that can be manually turned or automatically rotated. This dynamic element allows the user to rotate the entire structure to bring any desired shoe pair to the front access position. Shoes are arranged radially with toes pointing outward, making them easily visible and accessible. The rotation mechanism enables quick access to any shoe without requiring the user to reach into crowded spaces or dig through stacks.
4Area of stationary object
If a narrow shoe carousel device is designed, then floor space is conserved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the central vertical stem serves as both the structural support and the rotation axis; the radial arms provide both structural support and shoe-holding surfaces; the multiple levels are stacked vertically sharing the same central support. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall structure despite the compact footprint. The modular design allows levels to be added or removed without affecting the core structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A shoe carousel device that includes in one embodiment a base for stabilization and support, a support stem attached to the base and extending upwards therefrom at an approximate 90 degree angle, and a plurality of stackable shelves mounted on the support stem, including a discrete top shelf. The stackable shelves and top shelf are circular shaped with a raised outer tab and lighting disposed along their circumference and a relatively thin mesh surfacing. The top shelf includes a plurality of tilted slats which each can receive a pair of flat bottom shoes. In some embodiments, the tilted slats may extend upwards in order to increase the number of slats that can fit on the shelf. In some embodiments, the shoe carousel device also includes a foot pedal actuated motor operative to rotate the shoe carousel device.