Storage rack system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage rack systems lack customization options for removably mounting items and accessories, limiting their versatility and adaptability to various configurations.

Innovation Solution

A storage rack system featuring shelf brackets with an elongate rigid mounting structure, orthogonal top and bottom arms forming an angle of 5-60 degrees, and U-shaped cross-section strut channels for adjustable mounting of items and accessories, allowing quick and easy reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional channeled structures with locking nuts and bolts are used, then structural stability is achieved, but customization options for removably mounting items are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidmounting structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting structure is divided into modular components: the channeled structure serves as the base, while separate bracket assemblies with adjustable arms can be attached at different positions. This segmentation allows multiple configuration options without requiring a completely different structure for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket assembly includes movable elements such as the adjustable bottom arm that can be positioned at different angles (5-60 degrees) and locations along the channeled structure. This dynamic capability enables the same structure to adapt to various mounting requirements while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fixed mounting structures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but reconfiguration capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The channeled structure is pre-formed with multiple positioning locations and attachment points built into its geometry. This preliminary preparation allows brackets to be quickly reconfigured to different positions without requiring modification of the main structure, enabling both stability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The bracket assembly allows adjustment of geometric parameters including the angle of the bottom arm (5-60 degrees) and its position along the channel. These parameter changes enable reconfiguration for different storage needs while the locking mechanism maintains structural stability at each selected configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If simple mounting structures are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but customization options are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidbracket construction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket assembly is designed as a universal component that can be attached to the channeled structure at multiple positions and configured in various orientations. This single multi-functional bracket design replaces the need for multiple specialized mounting structures, simplifying manufacturing while providing extensive customization options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11641942B1Storage rack system
Publication Date: 2023.05.09 KEN ROCKLEY PTY LTD
  • US11641942B1 patent drawing
  • US11641942B1 patent drawing
  • US11641942B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A storage system includes a shelf bracket that has an elongate rigid mounting structure. The shelf bracket includes a top arm extending outwardly from, and orthogonal to, the elongate rigid mounting structure. The shelf bracket further includes a bottom arm extending outwardly from the elongate rigid mounting structure, at an angle of between 5-60 degrees. The bottom arm is in the form of a strut channel that includes a U-shaped cross section that includes a back wall, two opposed side walls extending downwardly from the back wall, each of the opposed side walls extending to an inwardly extending portion, which extends to an edge.