Suspended storage shelf assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suspended storage shelf assemblies face challenges in achieving structural soundness while being efficiently packable when unassembled, as they often require complex assembly processes and materials that are not optimized for compact packaging.

Innovation Solution

The proposed storage shelf assembly features a platform support frame with channels and cross members, including tubular rails and a bridge feature, which are designed to be compactly packaged and easily assembled, using an attachment assembly with a support bracket and clamp feature to securely suspend the platform from a structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If complex assembly processes and non-optimized materials are used, then structural soundness can be achieved, but packaging efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural soundnessVSAvoidpackaging size

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The storage shelf assembly is divided into separate components (platform support frame, platform, uprights, attachment assemblies) that can be packaged independently in compact configurations and then assembled at the installation location, reducing overall packaging volume while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Components are designed to nest within each other during packaging, with smaller elements fitting into spaces within larger structural members, maximizing space utilization and minimizing packaging footprint without compromising the strength of individual components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Strength

If complex assembly processes are used, then structural soundness can be achieved, but assembly simplicity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural soundnessVSAvoidassembly simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment assemblies incorporate self-aligning features and intuitive connection mechanisms that allow workers to assemble the structure without requiring complex procedures or specialized tools, with components designed to guide proper placement and engagement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple functions are combined into integrated components, such as the attachment assembly that simultaneously provides suspension, positioning, and structural connection functions, reducing the number of separate assembly steps while maintaining structural soundness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11369198B2Suspended storage shelf assembly

Publication Date: 2022.06.28 KNAPE & VOGT MANUFACTURING CO

AI summary

A storage shelf assembly for suspending from a structure includes a platform. A platform support frame includes a first side member that defines a first channel and a second side member that defines a second channel positioned opposite the first side member. A plurality of cross members extend between the first and second side members and are received within the first and second channels. The plurality of cross members are configured to support the platform. A plurality of uprights configured to suspend the platform support frame from the structure are coupled to the platform support frame by an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly includes a support bracket coupled to the upright and configured to cradle the first side member, and a clamp feature coupled to the support bracket and configured to extend over the first side member.