Slotted Runner Assembly for Flexible Mobile Shelving Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing runner assemblies for mobile shelving systems require significant post-processing after cutting to size, including drilling and slotting, and lack versatility in mounting options, increasing complexity and costs.
Innovation Solution
A runner assembly with a longitudinal body featuring integrated slots and end brackets that allow for versatile attachment of shelving components and rollers at any desired position, eliminating the need for additional post-processing and providing anti-tilt functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional runner brackets are used requiring post-processing (drilling, slotting), then mounting flexibility is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The runner bracket is pre-formed with integrated slots and mounting features during the extrusion process, eliminating the need for post-processing operations such as drilling and slotting. This preliminary preparation of mounting features resolves the contradiction by providing mounting flexibility through pre-configured slots while reducing manufacturing complexity by avoiding secondary operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The runner bracket incorporates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, includes integrated slots for mounting various components at different positions, and features pre-formed attachment points. This multi-functionality achieves mounting flexibility while simplifying the overall manufacturing process by consolidating multiple features into one extruded profile.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional runner brackets require drilling and slotting after cutting, then precise mounting positions are achieved, but labor time and installation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The slots and mounting features are pre-formed in the runner bracket during the extrusion process at precisely positioned locations. This preliminary action ensures mounting position precision is achieved during manufacturing rather than during installation, thereby reducing installation time and labor costs while maintaining the precision required for proper component mounting.
3Ease of manufacture
If runner brackets are designed with fixed mounting positions, then manufacturing is simplified, but versatility in component placement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The runner bracket incorporates multiple discrete slots positioned at different locations along its length, each slot providing a specific mounting position. This segmentation of mounting positions into multiple predefined slots achieves versatility in component placement while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as all slots are formed during the extrusion process without requiring complex post-processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The runner bracket serves multiple mounting functions through its integrated slots, allowing different components to be mounted at various positions along the runner. This universal design provides component placement flexibility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the extrusion process that forms all mounting features in a single operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a runner assembly for supporting a mobile shelving unit above a longitudinal mobile shelving track, the runner assembly characterised by a longitudinal body of inverted U-shaped configuration having a plurality of longitudinally extending slots adapted to accommodate fastening means for attachment of mobile shelving components to the longitudinal runner body. For example, a roller adapted to slideably engage the longitudinal track, clips for engaging the mobile shelving unit, and transverse cross members for connecting two runner bodies, are each mountable to the runner body, meaning that no additional post-processing of the runner is required once it is cut to size.