Storage rack with removable and stowable shelf
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage racks for shoes and other footwear have low storage density and practical limitations, leading to underutilization of closet space.
Innovation Solution
A storage rack with adjustable height compartments and a removable interior shelf that can be stowed within the rack when not in use, allowing for customizable storage solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed interior shelf is used in storage racks, then the structure is simple and stable, but the storage density is low and closet space is underutilized
Solution Approach 1:
The interior shelf is divided into a shelf body and separate support legs that can be independently positioned along the side panels. This segmentation allows the shelf to be adjusted to different heights and configurations, increasing storage density while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The interior shelf transitions from a fixed position to a movable and adjustable configuration. The support legs can be repositioned along the side panels, and the entire shelf can be removed and stored within the rack, allowing the storage system to adapt to different storage needs and maximize closet space utilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the interior shelf is made removable, then the storage capacity is increased, but the shelf may be misplaced or lost
Solution Approach 1:
The removable interior shelf is designed to be stored within the rack itself when not in use. The shelf nests inside the rack structure, ensuring it cannot be misplaced or lost. This nesting solution maintains the benefits of removability for storage capacity while eliminating the risk of the shelf being misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack structure serves multiple functions: it provides the main storage framework, supports the removable shelf during use, and acts as a storage container for the shelf when not needed. This multi-functionality ensures the shelf remains reliable and accounted for while maximizing storage capacity.
3Productivity
If adjustable height compartments are implemented, then the storage utilization is optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into simple, discrete components: support legs with positioning features that interface with corresponding features on the side panels. This segmentation allows for height adjustment without requiring complex mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while optimizing storage utilization through customizable compartment heights.
Data Source
AI summary
A storage rack having a top panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a rear panel, and at least one removable and stowable interior shelf. Each side panel has at least one rear channel and at least one horizontal channel that is perpendicular to its corresponding rear channel. The rear channels and horizonal channels are aligned with each other. The at least one removable and stowable interior shelf is configured to slide into and out of the aligned horizontal channels and rear channels in the first and second side panels.