Snap-Fit Bracket Hanger Assembly for Reconfigurable Wire Shelving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems face challenges in maximizing usable space and ease of access to stored items, particularly in tight spaces, where traditional shelving solutions do not efficiently utilize space or allow for easy reconfiguration.
Innovation Solution
A shelving unit with a wire shelf and hanger assembly featuring snap-fit coupling brackets that can be easily attached and detached, allowing for flexible configuration and reconfiguration of the shelving system to accommodate different items and optimize space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional shelving solutions are used, then structural stability is maintained, but space utilization efficiency deteriorates and reconfiguration flexibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system is divided into modular components: individual brackets with channel members, separate rod assemblies, and interchangeable parts. This segmentation allows flexible reconfiguration of shelving units to optimize space utilization while maintaining structural stability through standardized coupling interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates multiple functional elements: the channel member receives both vertical and horizontal rods, the flange provides mounting surfaces, and the leg portions attach to wall surfaces. This multi-functionality enables a single bracket component to support various shelving configurations without requiring different specialized parts.
2Ease of operation
If fixed shelving structures are used, then structural stability is ensured, but ease of access and movement of stored items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system transitions from fixed to dynamic configuration through releasable coupling mechanisms. Brackets can be easily attached and detached from wall surfaces, and rods can be inserted or removed from channel members, allowing the structure to adapt to changing storage needs while maintaining stability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel member acts as an intermediary element between the bracket and the rod. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the coupling process, allowing rods to be quickly inserted and secured while distributing loads evenly across the bracket structure, thus maintaining reliability during frequent assembly and disassembly operations.
3Quantity of substance
If maximum space utilization is achieved, then storage capacity increases, but ease of accessing stored items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system utilizes vertical wall space through brackets mounted on vertical surfaces, effectively adding a vertical dimension to storage capacity. Multiple rods can be arranged at different heights and positions, creating a three-dimensional storage network that maximizes space utilization while maintaining easy access to items at any level.
Data Source
AI summary
A hanger assembly for a wire shelf includes at least one bracket configured to releasably couple to wire members of the wire shelf. The bracket includes a hook-shaped end portion that defines a channel for receiving a first one of the wire members and an elbow portion that defines a bend for receiving a second one of the wire members to thereby releasably couple the bracket to the wire shelf. The bracket may further include a second end portion opposite the hook-shaped end portion and a U-shaped portion defined between the elbow portion and the second end portion such that the second end portion extends generally back towards the elbow portion and the hook-shaped portion. A rod may be coupled to the bracket. Also disclosed are saddles for coupling to the brackets and receiving a rod, and a rod joiner for coupling between rods.