Stackable rack system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage rack systems for shipping containers are inefficient and inconvenient due to the need for separate racks to accommodate different-sized secondary receptacles, leading to logistics and inventory management issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular, stackable rack system comprising interconnected racks of varying sizes and compartments, equipped with damping devices to secure and stabilize storage containers, allowing flexible arrangement and secure transport of diverse secondary receptacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate storage racks are designed for different secondary receptacles, then each receptacle type can be properly accommodated, but the number of racks increases and logistics management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The storage rack is designed with a universal configuration that can accommodate multiple types of secondary receptacles (vial boxes, cassettes, and other storage containers of different sizes and shapes) through a single standardized rack design, eliminating the need for multiple specialized rack types
Solution Approach 2:
The storage rack is divided into multiple compartments that can be independently configured, allowing each compartment to hold different types of secondary receptacles while maintaining a unified rack structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-design storage racks are created for different secondary receptacles, then specific storage needs are met, but inventory management issues arise due to the variety of rack types required
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized rack design serves multiple storage purposes by accommodating various secondary receptacle types through standardized compartments and positioning features, simplifying inventory management to a single rack type
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate storage racks are used for different secondary receptacles, then each receptacle type has dedicated storage, but the number of shipping containers required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple types of secondary receptacles are combined within a single storage rack using standardized compartments and positioning mechanisms, allowing diverse storage needs to be met in one consolidated unit that reduces the number of shipping containers required
4Reliability
If storage racks are designed to limit movement of secondary receptacles, then impact from external forces is reduced, but the racks become more complex in structure
Solution Approach 1:
Secondary receptacles are positioned and secured within compartments before shipping, with pre-configured positioning features that limit movement and protect against external forces without requiring complex active restraint mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances shipment efficiency by minimizing the number of shipping containers needed and protecting contents from vibration, while accommodating various container sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
The leaf spring may be coupled to the shelf or the bottom surface of the second stackable rack and include a curved elongated portion that protrudes or curves into the first or second compartment and flexes or compresses to reduce the vibration
Data Source
AI summary
In general, one aspect of the subject matter described in this specification is embodied in a rack system. The rack system includes a first stackable rack and a second stackable rack. The first stackable rack includes a top ceiling, a bottom surface, a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The second stackable rack includes a top ceiling, a bottom surface, a first sidewall, a second sidewall and a shelf. The top ceiling, the bottom surface, the first sidewall, the second sidewall and the shelf of the second stackable rack define a first compartment and a second compartment. The bottom surface of the first stackable rack is slidably coupled with the top ceiling of the second stackable rack.