Stackable Hose Rack Assembly with Nesting Members for Vertical Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system that allows hoses to be stored on racks that can be stacked on top of each other, enabling organized storage and efficient use of space.
Innovation Solution
A stackable hose rack system comprising side wall assemblies, mid and top center bars, front and rear cradle bars, and nesting members that allow multiple rack assemblies to be stacked securely, with features like ground clearance for forklift access and materials like raw steel tubing for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple racks are stacked to increase storage capacity, then space utilization is improved, but structural stability and load-bearing capacity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting members (male and female coupling elements) that allow rack assemblies to nest within each other when stacked. The male nesting members protrude from the top corners of lower racks and insert into corresponding female nesting members on the bottom corners of upper racks, creating a mechanically interlocked stackable system that maintains structural stability while increasing vertical storage capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The rack system is divided into modular rack assemblies that can be independently manufactured and then stacked. Each rack assembly is a self-contained unit with standardized nesting interfaces, allowing the system to be segmented into discrete stackable modules that maintain individual structural integrity while contributing to the overall stacked structure
2Ease of operation
If ground clearance is provided for forklift access, then ease of operation is improved, but the height of the rack assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides ground clearance by positioning the bottom cradle bars and bottom side bars above the ground level, creating sufficient space for forklift forks to insert and engage with the rack assembly. This partial elevation achieves the necessary operational clearance without excessively increasing the overall rack height, as the clearance is provided only at the critical loading points rather than uniformly throughout the entire structure
Data Source
AI summary
A rack assembly that includes first and second side wall assemblies, a mid center bar extending between the first and second side wall assemblies, first and second front cradle bars extending between the first and second side wall assemblies, first and second male nesting members secured to the top of the first side wall assembly, first and second female nesting members secured to the bottom of the first side wall assembly, third and fourth male nesting members secured to the top of the second side wall assembly, and third and fourth female nesting members secured to the bottom of the second side wall assembly. A front cradle space is defined between the first and second front cradle bars and a rear cradle space is defined between the first and second rear cradle bars.