Rigid Support Rail Assembly With Tool-Free Bin Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular storage systems require the use of fastening screws and elements, which are time-consuming and cumbersome for mounting storage bins on support rails, necessitating the use of a screwdriver.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of discrete one-piece stud-like fasteners that can be inserted through the storage bin's hanging slots into the cavity, eliminating the need for screws and fastening elements, and providing a more efficient and cost-effective mounting solution, along with interchangeable spacer kits for enhanced support structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fastening screws and fastening elements are used for mounting storage bins, then reliable mechanical connection is achieved, but the mounting process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome requiring screwdriver tools
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into a two-part composition: a fastening element that remains on the support rail and a fastening screw that is inserted through the storage bin. This segmentation allows the bulk of the fastening mechanism to be pre-positioned on the rail, reducing assembly complexity and time while maintaining reliable mechanical connection through the combined action of both parts
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element is preliminarily positioned on the support rail before the storage bin is attached. This preliminary action prepares the mounting location in advance, so that when the storage bin is installed, only the final fastening screw insertion is needed, significantly reducing the time and tool requirements compared to traditional screw-only systems
2Strength
If traditional fastening screws and elements are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but the process requires additional tools and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element and fastening screw work together as an integrated system where the element provides the mounting interface on the rail and the screw provides the securing action from the storage bin side. This merging of functions into a coordinated two-part system achieves secure mounting while simplifying the overall process by distributing functions between two specialized components rather than requiring a complex single-component fastener
Data Source
AI summary
Kit for assembling a rectangular rigid support structure including a pair of vertical support rails and an upper spacer and a base spacer. The two spacers are rigidly attachable to and space apart the pair of vertical support rails. The spacers have spacer ends with integrally formed inter-engagement arrangements for mechanical inter-engagement with and attachment to the support rails. The inter-engagement arrangements include one or more integrally formed projections intended for insertion into the support rails. The spacers in the kit each have two pieces that can be rigidly assembled together.