Storage Module Corner Connector Integrating Bearing and Frame Join
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage solutions for garbage cans are complex to assemble and lack stability, with many requiring multiple parts and visible fasteners, which complicates assembly and reduces durability.
Innovation Solution
A storage module with a support frame connected via corner connectors that serve as both assembly elements and pivot bearings, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, featuring a cuboid design with integrated bearings for the lid and door, and optional modular width expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple separate fasteners and fittings are used to assemble profiles and support fittings, then the structure can be securely assembled, but the assembly becomes complex and requires many individual parts
Solution Approach 1:
The corner connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: it connects profiles together and simultaneously provides bearing surfaces for mounting lids and doors. This merging of connection and bearing functions eliminates the need for separate fasteners and fittings, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The corner connector serves multiple purposes: structural connection of profiles, support for pivot bearings, and mounting point for lids and doors. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed while ensuring secure assembly
2Stability of the object's composition
If visible fasteners and fittings are used for assembly, then the structure can be securely assembled, but the appearance becomes less appealing
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the connection and bearing functions into the corner connector itself, the design eliminates the need for additional visible fasteners and fittings. The corner connector becomes both the structural element and the mounting point, resulting in a clean appearance with no exposed hardware
3Reliability
If additional fasteners and fittings are used to mount lids and doors, then the mounting can be secure, but the assembly process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The corner connector integrates the bearing function directly into the connection element. Lids and doors are mounted on bearings that are part of the corner connector itself, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and simplifying the assembly process while ensuring secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The corner connector provides its own bearing surfaces as an integral part of its structure, so no additional mounting components are needed. The structure serves its own mounting needs through the integrated design
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A storage module (1), in particular as a bin enclosure, comprises a support frame (2) with profiles (3, 4) connected to each other via corner connectors (5, 6, 7, 8), wherein a door (9) pivotable about a vertical axis is held on a front side of the support frame (2) and a lid (10) pivotable about a horizontal axis is held on a top side of the support frame (2), and a cover (11) is fixed to the support frame (2) on at least one side, wherein a bearing (51, 71) for the rotatable support of the lid (10) or the door (9) is integrally formed with at least one corner connector (5, 6). This allows the storage module (1) to be manufactured stably with few components.