Tool Storage Layout With Asymmetric Receptacle Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tool storage devices require significant floor space, are not suitable for storing tools of varying dimensions, and result in long tool change times due to large distances between receptacles, leading to inefficiencies in machine operation and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A tool storage device with support elements having non-uniformly spaced central axes, allowing for the accommodation of tools of different sizes in a compact manner, and featuring a frame with adjustable and inclined support elements to optimize packing density and reduce access distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tools are stored in a traditional tool storage device with uniformly spaced receptacles, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the device requires large floor space and cannot accommodate tools of varying dimensions efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by arranging receptacles with non-uniform spacing in the radial direction. The distance between adjacent receptacles varies, with some gaps being larger and others smaller, allowing tools of different dimensions to be stored efficiently. This asymmetric arrangement maximizes storage capacity within a compact footprint, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and floor space requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional horizontal arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by stacking support elements vertically. Multiple support elements are arranged one above another in the frame, utilizing the vertical dimension to increase storage capacity without proportionally increasing floor space. This dimensional change allows the device to accommodate more tools of varying sizes in a compact footprint.
2Loss of time
If the distances between receptacles are reduced to decrease tool change time, then tool change speed improves, but the risk of tool collisions increases and tools may not fit into the fixture
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric spacing of receptacles in the radial direction allows optimization of access paths. By strategically placing receptacles at different radial distances, the patent enables shorter access distances for frequently used tools while maintaining sufficient clearance for larger tools, thus reducing tool change time without increasing collision risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing different spacing characteristics in different regions of the support element. Radially inward receptacles may be spaced differently from radially outward receptacles, allowing local optimization of access distance for each tool position based on its specific requirements, thereby minimizing overall tool change time while preventing collisions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different storage devices are used to accommodate tools of widely varying sizes, then all tools can be stored, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal storage device where a single support element with non-uniformly spaced receptacles can accommodate tools of widely varying dimensions. The asymmetric radial spacing allows the same support element structure to handle different tool sizes, eliminating the need for multiple specialized storage devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the storage function across multiple support elements that can be stacked vertically in the frame. Each support element maintains the asymmetric receptacle pattern, and together they provide comprehensive storage capacity for diverse tool sizes. This segmentation allows a single complex function to be distributed across simpler, modular components.
4Quantity of substance
If support elements are arranged horizontally in a single level, then the device structure is simple, but the storage capacity is limited and floor space is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by transitioning from a single-level horizontal arrangement to a multi-level vertical configuration. Support elements are stacked one above another within the frame structure, utilizing the vertical dimension to dramatically increase storage capacity without proportionally increasing floor space occupation. This dimensional transition allows compact footprint with high storage density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where multiple support elements are contained within the vertical space of the frame structure. Each support element is positioned at a different vertical level, creating a nested configuration that maximizes space utilization. This nesting approach allows the system to hold more tools in a compact vertical arrangement rather than spreading out horizontally.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A device (1) for storing tools (9) is shown and described, comprising several support elements (3, 10, 11) and a frame (2) for holding the support elements (3, 10, 11), wherein the support elements (3, 10, 11) each have several receptacles (4) for inserting tools (9), wherein the receptacles (4) each have a central axis (5), and wherein at least two of the support elements (3, 10, 11) are arranged one above the other in the frame (2). In order to store the tools in a smaller space, it is proposed that in the radial direction between three immediately adjacent central axes (5) of the receptacles (4) of a support element (3, 10, 11) the two distances (A) are unequal, and/or that the central axes (5) of the receptacles (4) of one of the support elements (3, 10, 11) are each spaced radially apart from the central axes (5) of the receptacles (4) of the support element (3, 10, 11) arranged immediately above and/or below.