SupVert Vertical Rack With Padded Tracks for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for storing, shipping, and transporting rigid stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are cumbersome, require large amounts of space, and risk damage due to improper handling, while failing to meet manufacturer recommendations for vertical stacking.
Innovation Solution
A padded top and bottom track system that allows SUP boards to be stacked vertically without center dividers, enabling efficient storage and transport of multiple boards while protecting them from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If SUP boards are stored horizontally or on shelves with center partitions, then they are easier to handle, but they require large amounts of space and leave boards vulnerable to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal storage to vertical storage by positioning SUP boards upright in a rack system. This dimensional change allows multiple boards to be stacked vertically, dramatically reducing the floor space required while maintaining easy access to each board through the open-back design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack system divides storage space into multiple vertical levels using horizontal shelves, allowing individual boards to be stored separately at different heights. This segmentation enables efficient use of vertical space while keeping each board accessible and protected.
2Area of stationary object
If SUP boards are stacked vertically without proper support, then space efficiency improves, but boards become susceptible to warping and breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The rack system provides localized support at critical points along the board length through vertically positioned support bars and padded contact surfaces. This targeted support distribution maintains the board's natural curvature while preventing warping and breakage during vertical storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates padded contact surfaces at all points where the rack touches the SUP board. This cushioning is built into the rack structure beforehand, protecting boards from damage during loading, storage, and unloading without requiring additional packaging materials.
3Reliability
If traditional packaging materials are used, then boards are protected from damage, but space requirements double and environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the protective function from external packaging materials and integrates it directly into the rack structure through built-in padded contact surfaces. This eliminates the need for separate packaging materials while maintaining protection during handling and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The padded contact surfaces act as an intermediary between the rigid rack structure and the SUP board, providing cushioning and protection without requiring additional packaging materials. This mediator layer protects the board while maintaining compact storage.
4Reliability
If center dividers or partitions are added to vertical racks, then board protection improves, but space efficiency and simplicity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using center partitions, the rack system segments support functions into multiple vertical support bars distributed along the board length. This provides protection and stability without the space consumption of horizontal dividers.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack provides localized protection at specific contact points along the board rather than using continuous center partitions. This targeted approach maintains space efficiency while ensuring boards are protected at all critical locations.
Data Source
AI summary
The SUPVERT rack is a multipurpose storage rack for rigid stand up paddleboards. The vertical, parallel tracks facilitate SUP board display and storage in the most space efficient manner. The SUPVERT rack does not contain any full height partitions between boards; rather it uses stacked parallel tracks for spacing, thereby drastically reducing the overall footprint. The versatility of the rack allows it to be used for static displays, freight crates, or mobile SUP business operations.