Stowable Adjustable Shelf Structure for Tool-Free Height Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage enclosures often require adjustment or removal of shelves to accommodate varying article sizes, which can be cumbersome and necessitate storage of the removed shelves for later reinstallation, lacking a convenient and tool-free method for vertical height adjustment and stowage.
Innovation Solution
A storage enclosure with a shelf system featuring rotating and fixed support members, hinge pins, and connecting elements that allow the shelf to be vertically adjusted, folded, and stowed without tools, enabling easy reconfiguration between multiple positions, including a storage configuration where one end is unsupported.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the shelf is made vertically height adjustable to accommodate different article sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for adjustment mechanisms and shelf storage
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support system transitions from static fixed positions to dynamic adjustable positions. The rotating support members allow the shelf to move between multiple vertical heights and a stowed position, providing adaptability while maintaining operational simplicity through rotational motion rather than complex mechanical adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating support members serve multiple functions: they provide vertical height adjustment, enable complete shelf removal via rotation, and offer a stowed position when not in use. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and shelf storage solutions, reducing overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shelf is made removable to accommodate tall objects, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to store and reinstall the shelf
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf removal and storage functions are merged into a single rotational operation. The rotating support members allow the shelf to be rotated into a stowed position within the same structure, eliminating the need for separate storage locations and simplifying the operation to a single continuous motion rather than multiple discrete steps
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating support members enable the shelf system to service itself by providing its own storage mechanism within the structure. The shelf is stored in a dedicated position provided by the rotating supports, eliminating the need for external storage solutions and simplifying the operator's task to merely rotating the shelf into its stored position
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
Enables flexible and tool-free reconfiguration of the shelf within the storage enclosure, accommodating different article sizes and configurations without the need for special tools, allowing for efficient use of space and easy setup by a single individual.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first rotating shelf support and the second rotating shelf support includes a hinge pin having an axis of rotation defined between the first stop member and the second stop member
Data Source
AI summary
A storage enclosure includes a first support member spaced from a second support member. The first support member includes a first rotating shelf support and the second support member includes a second rotating shelf support. A third support member is spaced from a fourth support member. The third support member includes a first fixed shelf support and a second fixed shelf support and the fourth support member includes a third fixed shelf support and a fourth fixed shelf support. A shelf includes a first end connected to the first rotating shelf support and the second rotating shelf support and a second end. The shelf is positionable in a first configuration and a second configuration.