Storage system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage systems require the use of step stools or cumbersome poles to access upper cabinet spaces, which are inconvenient and hazardous, and also make it difficult to reach items below waist level, especially for individuals with mobility issues, while occupying valuable storage space.
Innovation Solution
A retractable vertical cabinet system that allows for variable height and extension, using pivoting support members and lift assist mechanisms like springs or electric actuators, enabling easy access to stored items in hard-to-reach areas without the need for external assistance, and can be integrated into custom cabinetry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If step stools or poles are used to access upper cabinet spaces, then accessibility to stored items is improved, but safety hazards increase and storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet assembly is made dynamically adjustable in height through the integration of height-adjustable support members. These members allow the cabinet to be positioned at multiple height levels, enabling users to access items at comfortable heights without requiring step stools or poles, thereby eliminating safety hazards while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The height parameter of the cabinet assembly is made variable through the use of height-adjustable support members. By changing the height parameter to match user needs, the system provides safe and convenient access to stored items without requiring external assistance devices that pose safety risks.
2Ease of operation
If step stools or poles are used to access upper cabinet spaces, then accessibility to stored items is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The height-adjustment mechanism is merged directly into the cabinet assembly structure itself, combining the cabinet with its support system. This integration eliminates the need for separate external aids like step stools or poles, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining accessibility functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cabinet assembly provides its own height-adjustment capability through integrated height-adjustable support members, making the system self-sufficient. Users can adjust the cabinet height without requiring external assistance devices, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If fixed height cabinets are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but accessibility to items at various heights is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet assembly transitions from a fixed height design to a dynamically adjustable height system. Height-adjustable support members enable the cabinet to be positioned at multiple height levels, improving accessibility to items at various heights while maintaining relatively simple structural implementation through the use of adjustable supports.
4Ease of operation
If cabinets are made accessible at lower heights, then ease of access for individuals with mobility issues is improved, but space utilization in upper areas is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet assembly uses height-adjustable support members to dynamically adapt its height position. This allows the cabinet to be lowered to accessible heights for individuals with mobility issues when needed, while also being capable of positioning in upper areas to maximize space utilization, thereby resolving the contradiction between accessibility and space utilization.
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 system provides safe, efficient, and convenient access to stored items in difficult-to-reach areas, reducing effort and eliminating the need for external aids, while maintaining compactness and security, and can accommodate various load types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
lift assist mechanisms like springs
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system for storing contents is provided. The storage system includes a retractable vertical cabinet having a handle, at least one pivoting support member pivotally attached to at least an exterior side of the cabinet and a support structure. The storage system further includes a lift adjuster and a rotating adjustment screw threadably connected allowing for adjustment of a lift assist mechanism, which is connected between a foundation and the lift adjuster, to accommodate for varied loads. This storage system may also include an electric actuator movement. This storage system may also include a brake mechanism to restrain movement from any desired elevation.