Tray with Rotatable Support Arms for Flexible Object Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Trays, shelves, and bins typically have static partitions that do not provide flexible support for objects, limiting their ability to accommodate varying sizes and shapes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A tray design featuring a base with a top plate and support arms that include hooks and fulcrum portions, allowing the arms to rotate and be held upright by springs, enabling flexible positioning and support for objects of different sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static partitions are used in trays, shelves, and bins, then the structure is simple and stable, but the ability to accommodate varying sizes and shapes of objects is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The support arms are designed to be rotatable about fulcrums, transforming the static partition structure into a dynamic one. This allows the support arms to adjust their positions and angles to accommodate objects of different sizes and shapes while maintaining structural stability through the fulcrum pivot points.
Solution Approach 2:
The tray structure is divided into multiple independent support arms that can move separately, rather than a single rigid partition. Each support arm can be independently positioned to support objects of varying dimensions, providing adaptability without requiring complete structural redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible support structures are added to accommodate varying object sizes, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fulcrum structure serves multiple functions: it acts as a pivot point for rotation, a support bearing for the support arm, and a positioning mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, maintaining relatively simple device complexity while achieving flexible positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook, support arm, and fulcrum are combined into an integrated assembly where the support arm rotates on the fulcrum. This merging of components creates a compact flexible support mechanism that accommodates varying object sizes without requiring numerous separate parts.
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
The tray system provides adjustable support for objects, ensuring they remain upright and stable, enhancing storage capacity and accessibility by accommodating various shapes and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is positioned to contact at least one of the right hook or the left hook of the associated support arm when the associated support arm rotates on the right fulcrum platform and on the left fulcrum platform. The spring supports the top arm portion in an approximately upright position.
Data Source
AI summary
A tray includes support arms and a base. Each support arm includes a top arm portion, a right hook, a right fulcrum portion mounted between the top arm portion and the right hook, a left hook, and a left fulcrum portion mounted between the top arm portion and the left hook. The base includes a base top plate that includes a right fulcrum platform, a left fulcrum platform, and a spring for each support arm. The right fulcrum portion is mounted to rotate on the right fulcrum platform. The left fulcrum portion is mounted to rotate on the left fulcrum platform. The spring is positioned to contact at least one of the right hook or the left hook when the associated support arm rotates on the right fulcrum platform and on the left fulcrum platform. The spring supports the top arm portion in an approximately upright position.