Stackable Tray Pole Latching for Access to Lower Stored Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inventory systems, such as those in retail stores, face limitations in accessing individual items when shipping containers like cardboard boxes are stacked on hand-trucks, as access is restricted to the top of the topmost container, and original shipping systems may not be available for storing overstock or expired items.
Innovation Solution
A stackable tray system with a pole and support mechanism, where each tray has a fastening device that disengages and engages with the pole, allowing individual trays to be easily accessed and rearranged, featuring sloping edges and channels for smooth sliding and secure stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If shipping containers are stacked on hand-trucks to maximize storage space, then storage capacity is improved, but access to individual containers is limited to only the topmost container
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the stacked shipping containers into individually accessible segments by inserting a wedge-shaped tool between containers. This allows each container to be independently accessed without moving the entire stack, resolving the contradiction between maintaining stack integrity for storage capacity and enabling individual access to containers.
Solution Approach 2:
A wedge-shaped intermediary tool is introduced between stacked containers to create access points. This mediator device enables workers to insert and maneuver containers horizontally without requiring vertical access from the top, thus maintaining storage density while improving operational accessibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If original shipping containers are discarded after delivery, then storage space is freed up, but no suitable containers are available for storing overstock or expired items
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped access tool serves multiple functions: it can be inserted between any stacked containers, works with different container types and sizes, and enables various operations including accessing, removing, and repositioning containers. This universal tool addresses the versatility need without requiring different container types.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding original shipping containers after delivery, the system enables their recovery and reuse for storing overstock or expired items. The wedge tool facilitates easy removal and repositioning of these containers to new storage locations, extending their useful life and eliminating the need for additional containers.
3Quantity of substance
If items are placed into shipping containers from the top and containers are stacked vertically, then storage density is improved, but access to lower containers requires moving upper containers
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of accessing containers from the top down (traditional vertical access), the wedge tool enables horizontal access by inserting between stacked containers. This inverted approach to container access maintains vertical stacking for density while eliminating the time loss associated with moving upper containers to reach lower ones.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge-shaped intermediary device creates horizontal access pathways through vertically stacked containers. This mediator enables direct access to any container in the stack without disturbing others, resolving the time loss problem while preserving storage density.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is an inventory system with stackable trays that permits access to individual trays. The inventory system comprises an upright pole having a top and bottom, a support attached to the bottom of the pole, and at least two stackable trays, each tray having a fastening device to engage a back of the tray to the pole, wherein when a tray is moved away from the pole, the fastening device disengages the pole, and when a tray is pushed toward the pole, the fastening device can engage the pole. Also disclosed is a stackable tray. Also disclosed is method for removing a lower stacked tray from underneath a higher stacked tray.