Universal Stemware Rack with Flexible Arms for Secure Transit Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Stemware presents a unique storage challenge in passenger transit due to its shape and size variations, making it difficult to securely store without breakage, especially in environments like airplanes, ships, and trains where accessibility is needed.
Innovation Solution
A stemware rack design featuring a base plate, posts, and a retainer with elastic arms and feet that securely accommodate the stem and base of stemware, using a tapered and annular stem receiving space to prevent displacement, and a flexible design to fit various sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional storage methods are used for stemware, then storage space can be optimized, but the stemware cannot be securely stored and is prone to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The storage apparatus is divided into multiple independent compartments, each specifically designed to hold a single stemware item. Each compartment includes separate elements for securing the bowl and the stem, allowing the stemware to be divided into protected segments rather than stored as a single vulnerable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the storage apparatus have specialized structures tailored to specific parts of the stemware. The bowl-holding portion features a cradle with curved surfaces matching bowl shapes, while the stem-holding portion includes vertical slots and elastic elements designed specifically for stem protection. This localized specialization ensures optimal protection for each component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed storage structure is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but it cannot accommodate various sizes and shapes of stemware
Solution Approach 1:
The storage apparatus incorporates elastic elements including springs and elastic members that can dynamically adjust to accommodate different stemware sizes and shapes. These elastic components provide flexible adaptation rather than rigid fixed positioning, allowing the same structure to securely hold various types of stemware from small wine glasses to larger champagne flutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes variable parameters in the compartment structures, including adjustable slot positions, varying cradle curvatures, and elastic element specifications. By changing these parameters within the same basic design framework, the apparatus can accommodate different stemware dimensions and shapes without requiring completely different structures for each type.
3Reliability
If stemware components are not individually secured, then storage is simpler, but the fragile components are prone to displacement and breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The storage apparatus employs a nested structure where the stem is held within vertical slots that are themselves contained within the larger compartment structure. The elastic members and springs are nested within the compartment walls, creating multiple nested layers of protection that secure the stemware components in place without requiring complex external mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Elastic members and springs act as intermediary elements between the rigid compartment structure and the fragile stemware components. These intermediaries absorb mechanical stresses and provide gentle securing forces, protecting the delicate glass components from direct contact with rigid structures while still preventing displacement.
4Ease of operation
If stemware is not easily accessible, then security during transit is improved, but accessibility for use during transit is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stemware is pre-secured in individual compartments with built-in securing mechanisms that automatically engage when the stemware is placed in the storage apparatus. The elastic members and springs are pre-positioned to provide immediate securing action, eliminating the need for additional safety steps while maintaining easy accessibility when needed.
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 stemware rack effectively secures and stores different types of stemware by preventing accidental displacement and breakage, ensuring safety and accessibility in transit and shipping environments.
Implementation Method 1
a retainer with elastic arms and feet that securely accommodate the stem and base of stemware
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for securing one or more items of stemware includes a base plate, one or more posts, a retainer, and one or more feet. The feet and base plate cooperatively secure a base portion of the item of stemware, and the retainer includes arms defining a stem receiving space that secures a stem of the item of stemware. The feet are coupled to the arms. The arms are flexible so as to accommodate different sizes of stems and bases in stemware with a single rack.