Storage support member and grating system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage rack systems face instability and interference issues due to unsupported or improperly secured support members, which can lead to displacement and obstruction during loading and unloading processes, especially when handling heavy loads.
Innovation Solution
A cold-formed support member with a U-shaped body and connection flaps that securely attach to horizontal beams, providing a stable load-bearing surface and preventing interference with the loading process, while being easy to manufacture and adaptable to various beam sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If support members are not fastened to horizontal beams, then the structure is simpler and easier to install, but the support members become displaced during loading operations reducing stability
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is divided into a central body and separate connection flaps at each end. Each connection flap can be independently attached to the horizontal beam, allowing the support member to be secured at multiple points without requiring a complex overall attachment mechanism. This segmentation maintains simplicity while ensuring stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the main body of the support member to the beam and having flaps extend outward, the connection flaps are positioned to attach directly to the beam first, with the central body then resting on top of the flaps. This inverted attachment sequence simplifies the fastening process while ensuring the support member remains securely in place.
2Reliability
If support members are fastened to horizontal beams with extending structures, then stability is improved, but the extended structures interfere with loading and unloading processes
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is extracted from the main body of the support member and placed in separate connection flaps that attach to the horizontal beam. The central body of the support member remains clean and unobtrusive, extending only to the necessary support points without additional attachment structures that would interfere with loading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment features are localized to the ends of the support member in the form of connection flaps, while the central spanning portion maintains a simple, clean profile. This allows the support function to be performed where needed without creating obstructions in the loading zone.
3Reliability
If support members are securely attached to beams, then reliability is improved, but the attachment process becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connection flaps are pre-formed as integral parts of the support member during manufacturing. The holes for bolts or rivets are pre-positioned in the flaps, allowing for quick alignment and attachment during installation without requiring complex field fabrication or adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection flaps are designed with specific geometric parameters (curved top surface, pentagon-like shape, hole positioning) that allow them to conform to standard horizontal beam dimensions. This standardization of parameters simplifies the attachment process across different beam sizes while maintaining secure fastening.
4Strength
If support members extend past beam edges to provide adequate support surface, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but objects passing by are snared hindering stability
Solution Approach 1:
The connection flaps are positioned asymmetrically at the ends of the support member, allowing the main body to be optimized for load-bearing span while the flaps handle the attachment function. This asymmetric arrangement ensures adequate support surface area without requiring the entire support member to extend beyond the beam edges.
Solution Approach 2:
The load-bearing surface is enhanced by adding a deck or grating structure on top of the support member span, rather than extending the support member itself beyond the beams. This dimensional approach provides adequate support area without creating horizontal obstructions that would snare passing objects.
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 solution ensures structural stability and reliability by maintaining the support members in place under heavy loads, preventing displacement and obstruction during operations, and allowing for efficient loading and unloading without extending beyond the beam edges.
Implementation Method 1
The support member can be formed by cold or hot working metals such as steel or aluminum, such as by pressing or rolling
Data Source
AI summary
Warehouse support structures capable of supporting 3000 pounds or more are fastened to the inside surface of a horizontal support beam attached to a vertical column. A structural support member spans the horizontal support beams and support a platform, such as a mesh platform is supported thereon. The support member can be an inverted formed U or an angle beam. The angle beam should have an attachment bracket secured to each end, at a height to permit the platform to have the same height as the horizontal beam. The mesh platform should nest in the inside surface of the horizontal beam, between the support member and the beam. The construction presents a smooth, easy to assemble, snag free construction.