Adjusting unit

Abstract

A fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel on which a connector is pre-mounted to a drawer frame. The fastening unit includes an anchoring unit operable to attach to the drawer frame. Further provided is an adjustment unit comprising a snap plate operable to receive the connector. The adjusting unit can be operated to move the clamping plate in three directions and transmit the movement to the connecting piece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustment unit, and more particularly (but not exclusively) to an adjustment unit for assisting in hanging a drawer front panel on a drawer frame. The present invention also relates to a device for more efficiently hanging a drawer front panel on a drawer frame. Background Art

[0002] Providing a symmetrically arranged array of drawers is aesthetically pleasing. To this end, it is necessary to ensure that each individual drawer front panel is precisely installed and adjusted relative to the drawer frame.

[0003] EP 2699123 discloses a device for adjusting the height and roll of a drawer front panel. However, a disadvantage of this solution is that the front panel requires separate adjustment devices for each of the two directions. This can be cumbersome, especially for non-professional technicians.

[0004] EP2643892 discloses a device for adjusting the lateral tilt of a drawer front panel. The device uses a series of pins positioned perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0005] Providing a device that enables efficient adjustment and does not require the user to have professional skills would be of significant advantage.

[0006] Another object of the present solution is to quickly and effectively hang a drawer front panel on a drawer frame, and specifically to provide a device that enables the drawer front panel to quickly engage with the drawer frame, which is reliable and easy to manufacture. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, there is provided a fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel pre-mounted with a connecting member to a drawer frame, the fastening unit comprising: an anchoring unit operable to attach to the drawer frame; an adjustment unit comprising a clamping plate operable to receive the connecting member, the adjustment unit being operable to move the clamping plate in three directions and transmit the movement to the connecting member.

[0008] Preferably, the three directions include: vertical displacement; horizontal displacement; vertical tilt. This multi-directional adjustment enables the drawer front panel to be precisely mounted on the drawer frame.

[0009] Preferably, the adjustment unit includes three separate corresponding devices for acting on each of the three directions. Thus, each direction change can be adjusted individually to ensure the precise placement of the drawer front panel relative to the drawer frame.

[0010] Preferably, the three separate devices are positioned adjacent to each other on the fastening unit. In use, the adjustment devices are typically contained within the lid. By positioning the three adjustment devices adjacent to each other, a small window can be provided in the lid to allow access to the adjustment devices. Such an arrangement enables the user to perform all adjustments directly.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the drawer frame includes slide rails, the slide rails including a top surface, wherein the fastening unit is attached to the slide rails.

[0012] Preferably, the vertical tilting direction acts about a single pivot point. Particularly preferably, the single pivot point is below the top surface of the slide rail. This arrangement advantageously allows a large range of adjustment arcs for the top of the drawer.

[0013] Preferably, the horizontal displacement occurs about a single pivot that is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the horizontal tilt. The single pivot is preferably a pin about which at least a part of the adjustment unit can rotate.

[0014] Preferably, the adjustment unit includes a secondary plate that abuts against the clamping plate, wherein the clamping plate is operable to move in a vertical direction relative to the secondary plate. In a preferred embodiment, only the clamping plate moves to effect the vertical movement.

[0015] Preferably, the clamping plate and the secondary plate are operable to horizontally shift together about the single pivot. Preferably, the single pivot is a pin. Ideally, the pin is located at the lower end of the adjustment unit. Such an arrangement provides the stability of the unit.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel to a drawer frame, the fastening unit comprising:

[0017] a connecting member operable to be pre-mounted on the drawer front panel;

[0018] a base plate having engaging members operable to engage with the connecting member, wherein the engagement is effected through at least two engagement points, wherein,

[0019] the base plate includes a clamping plate operable to move from a first position for receiving the connecting member to a second position for fixing the connecting member, wherein,

[0020] the clamping plate moves between the first position and the second position under the action of a single spring.

[0021] Junction via two points is advantageous for larger or deeper drawers. This provides additional stability. In addition, compared to an arrangement relying on multiple springs, the advantage of providing a single spring is that the fastening unit can be manufactured in a more straightforward manner, especially during assembly.

[0022] Preferably, at least two junction points are substantially the same.

[0023] Preferably, the snap-in plate is held in the first position by a primary locking device, and particularly preferably, the primary locking device is held in position by a secondary locking device.

[0024] Particularly preferably, the secondary locking device includes at least one lock associated with each of the junction points.

[0025] Preferably, two secondary locking devices need to be released to unlock the primary locking device. This arrangement is advantageous because the connecting member needs to be correctly aligned with the substrate to allow for junction.

[0026] Preferably, the secondary locking device is balanced by one or more springs. In a specific embodiment, the secondary locking device includes one or more leaf springs.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel pre-mounted with a connecting member to a drawer frame, the fastening unit comprising: an anchoring unit operable to attach to the drawer frame; an adjustment unit including a snap-in plate operable to receive the connecting member and a pair of outer plates positioned on both sides of the snap-in plate, the adjustment unit being operable to move the snap-in plate in three directions and transmit the movement to the connecting member.

[0028] Preferably, the snap-in plate is held between the outer plates.

[0029] In a mechanical system, there are six degrees of freedom (vertical, horizontal, and forward, as well as rotational movement about each of the X, Y, and Z axes). Preferably, the snap-in plate has two degrees of freedom of movement relative to the outer plates.

[0030] Preferably, the snap-in plate can be horizontally shifted / tilted relative to the outer plates, more preferably, the snap-in plate includes a rear edge, and wherein the rear edge is operably engaged with at least a portion of one or both of the outer plates to define a pivot axis.

[0031] It should be understood that the pivot axis need not be continuous. For example, the rear edge may include one or more tabs, or the axis may be serrated.

[0032] To make the present invention more easily understood, specific embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Description of the Drawings

[0033] Figure 1 A perspective view of a drawer side panel and its connection to the drawer front panel is shown. Also visible in the figure are the slide rails for the drawer to move relative to the cabinet;

[0034] Figure 2 A close-up view of the connection between the drawer side panel and the drawer front panel is shown, with a part of the drawer side panel removed to make the connection visible;

[0035] Figure 3 A rear perspective view of the connecting device according to the first embodiment is shown, presented in an exploded manner for ease of viewing;

[0036] Figure 4 A front perspective view of the connecting device according to the first embodiment is shown, with the connection presented in an exploded manner for ease of viewing.

[0037] Figure 5a A top view of the intersection of the drawer front panel and the drawer side panel is shown, where the connecting device is in the first position;

[0038] Figure 5b A top view of the intersection of the drawer front panel and the drawer side panel is shown, where the connecting device is in the second position;

[0039] Figure 6a A part of the connecting device in the first position is shown;

[0040] Figure 6b A part of the connecting device in the second position is shown;

[0041] Figure 7 A perspective view of a drawer side panel according to the second embodiment and its connection to the drawer front panel is shown. Also visible in the figure are the slide rails for the drawer to move relative to the cabinet.

[0042] Figure 8 A rear perspective view of the connecting device according to the second embodiment is shown, presented in an exploded manner for ease of viewing.

[0043] Figure 9a Shows Figure 7 A side view of an embodiment, where the connecting device presents the front drawer panel in the first position.

[0044] Figure 9b Shows Figure 7 A side view of an embodiment, where the connecting device presents the front drawer panel in the second position.

[0045] Figure 10a And 10b Show a right side view and a left side view of a fastening unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, where the connecting member is completely disengaged from the substrate.

[0046] Figure 11a and 11b respectively show a right side view and a left side view of a fastening unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connecting member and the substrate are at the joint point.

[0047] Figure 12a and 12b respectively show a right side view and a left side view of a fastening unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connecting member is fully engaged with the substrate.

[0048] Figure 13a and 13b respectively show a right side view and a left side view of a fastening unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connecting member is misaligned with the substrate.

[0049] Figure 14a and 14b respectively show a right side view and a left side view of a fastening unit according to a variant embodiment of the present invention, wherein the connecting member is completely disengaged from the substrate.

[0050] Figure 15 Shows a rear perspective view of a connecting device according to a third embodiment. For ease of viewing, the connecting device is shown in an exploded manner.

[0051] Figure 16 Shows a front perspective view of a connecting device according to a third embodiment. For ease of viewing, the connecting device is shown in an exploded manner.

[0052] Figure 17 Shows a rear perspective view of a fully assembled connecting device of a third embodiment.

[0053] Figure 18 Shows an embodiment of a fully assembled connecting device having a non - continuous pivot axis. Detailed Description

[0054] The present device provides an integrated three - way adjustment device for mounting a drawer front panel on a drawer frame and for adjustment in height, horizontal displacement, and vertical tilt. The device is a single unit that can typically be fastened to the drawer frame (either directly or via some other device) or mounted on a slide rail on the drawer frame. Advantageously, combining all three directions of movement in one adjustment unit allows for direct adjustment when the drawer front panel is mounted to the drawer frame.

[0055] Figure 1Shown is a drawer front panel 10 which is connected to a drawer frame 12 via a fastening unit 20. The drawer frame 12 includes slide rails 14 to allow the drawer to slide in and out of a cabinet (not shown). The drawer frame 12 may have a window 18 to allow access to the fastening unit 20. For ease of reference, a set of orthogonal axes is shown. When the fastening unit 20 is in use, the Y-axis is the longitudinal axis, the X-axis is the direction of drawer movement (opening and closing), and the Z-axis is parallel to the front surface of the drawer front panel 10.

[0056] Figure 2 A close-up view of the fastening unit 20, the slide rails 14, and the drawer front panel 10 is shown. The fastening unit is substantially mounted above the top surface 16 of the slide rails 14.

[0057] Figure 3 A rear perspective view of the fastening unit 20 according to the first embodiment is shown, and is shown in an exploded manner for ease of viewing. The fastening unit 20 includes a multi-component assembly operable to allow the drawer to be suspended on the drawer frame. The multi-component assembly is assembled to form a single unit. Specifically, an anchoring frame 30 fixed to the drawer frame 12 is provided. Generally, the anchoring frame 30 is fixed on the drawer slide rails. It may be fixed on the top surface 16 of the slide rails 14. During all adjustments of the drawer front panel 10, the anchoring frame 30 remains stationary relative to the drawer frame 12.

[0058] A connecting member 32 is pre-attached to the inner side of the drawer front panel 10. During the adjustment process, the connecting member 32 remains stationary relative to the drawer front panel 10.

[0059] As Figure 3 shown from left to right, the fastening unit 20 further includes a first three-stage adjustment plate 34, a main-stage adjustment plate 36, a secondary adjustment plate 38, and a second three-stage adjustment plate 40.

[0060] Figure 4 A front perspective view of the fastening unit 20 according to the first embodiment is shown, and is shown in an exploded manner for ease of viewing. In this figure, the connecting member 32 is shown on the front side, and the second three-stage adjustment plate 40, the secondary adjustment plate 38, the main-stage adjustment plate 36, the first three-stage adjustment plate 34, and the anchoring frame 30 are shown from left to right.

[0061] Figure 3 and Figure 4 both show Figure 1 the orthogonal axes shown. When the fastening unit 20 is in use, the Y-axis is the longitudinal axis, the X-axis is the direction of drawer movement (opening and closing), and the Z-axis is parallel to the front surface of the drawer front panel 10.

[0062] In use, the main-stage adjustment plate 36 is operable to engage and fix the connecting member 32. The connection process will be described later.

[0063] The primary adjustment plate 36 is fixed to the secondary adjustment plate 38 and is operable to slide relative to the secondary adjustment plate 38 in the Y direction. A cam 42 mounted on the primary adjustment plate 36 serves as a transmission element to cause relative movement between the first and second adjustment plates 36, 38. The cam 42 engages a cam surface 44 on the plate 36. The cam 42 includes a projection that engages a hole 43 in the secondary plate 38. The cam 42 includes means for adjustment. Typically, this will be a slot or a cross-shaped structure for accommodating a screwdriver or a similar tool. Rotating the cam 42 causes the cam 42 to engage the cam surface 44 and allows the primary adjustment plate 36 to move relative to the secondary adjustment plate 38. When the connecting member 32 engages the primary adjustment plate 36, the movement of the primary adjustment plate 36 causes the movement of the connecting member 32. In this way, the drawer front panel 10 can be adjusted relative to the drawer frame 12 in the vertical direction.

[0064] The primary adjustment plate 36 and the secondary adjustment plate 38 together form a horizontal displacement unit 50. The unit 50 is operable to rotate about the Y axis relative to the first and second tertiary plates 34, 40. The second tertiary plate 40 includes a pin 52. The second adjustment plate 38 includes a hole 54 complementary to the pin 52. When the hole is mounted on the pin 52, the horizontal displacement unit 50 is operable to rotate relative to the first and second tertiary plates 34, 40. Since the drawer front panel 10 will be mounted on both sides of the drawer frame, the drawer front panel 10 is operable to be displaced in the horizontal direction.

[0065] A transmission device 56 is mounted on the secondary adjustment plate 38. The transmission device 56 is typically a screw. The screw 56 passes through the secondary adjustment frame 38 via a hole 58. The hole 58 includes threads that engage the screw 56.

[0066] As can be seen from Figure 4 it, the screw passes through the primary adjustment frame 36 via an elongated hole 60. This elongated hole allows the primary adjustment frame 36 to move vertically relative to the secondary adjustment frame 38.

[0067] The screw 56 is movable relative to the horizontal displacement unit 50. The length of the screw is approximately the gap between the first and second tertiary plates 34, 40. Although small interference or clearance is allowed, the screw 56 generally maintains constant engagement with both tertiary plates.

[0068] The horizontal displacement unit 50 includes first and second cam surfaces 62, 64 (the cam surface 62 is shown in Figure 6a and Figure 6b the cam surface 64 is shown in Figure 4 ). The first cam surface 62 is formed on the primary adjustment plate 36 and is operable to engage the first tertiary adjustment frame 34. The second cam surface 64 is formed on the secondary adjustment plate 38 and is operable to engage the second tertiary adjustment frame 40.

[0069] The screw 56 includes means for receiving a tool, such as a screwdriver, to rotate the screw. Preferably, the means for receiving the screwdriver is formed on the same side of the primary adjustment plate 36 and the height adjustment screw / cam 42.

[0070] When the screw 56 rotates, engagement with the associated tertiary adjustment plate causes the horizontal displacement unit 50 to rotate about the pin 52. The first and second cam surfaces 62, 64 control the rotation and provide stability to the horizontal displacement unit 50.

[0071] Thus, operation of the transmission allows the drawer front panel to be horizontally displaced relative to the drawer frame.

[0072] The first and second tertiary frames 34, 40 and the horizontal displacement unit 50 together constitute a tilting unit 74 that is operable to tilt about the Z-axis. When the fastening module 20 is assembled, the first tertiary plate and the second tertiary plate are fixed together such that there is substantially no relative movement between the two plates. The first tertiary plate 34 includes a tab 66 that includes a hole 68. The anchoring frame 30 includes a hole 70. The holes 68 and 70 are positioned to receive a pin when the fastening unit 20 is assembled for use. The pin 72 allows the tilting unit 74 to tilt about the Z-axis relative to the anchoring frame 30.

[0073] The anchoring frame 30 includes a cam 76 that is operably engaged with a cam surface 78 on the anchoring frame 30. The cam 76 includes a protrusion that engages with a hole 77 on the first tertiary adjustment plate 34. The cam 76 includes means for receiving a tool, such as a screwdriver, to rotate the cam 76. Rotating the cam 76 causes the cam to engage with the cam surface 78 and tilts the tilting unit 74.

[0074] The tool receiving portions of the transmission 56 and the cams 42 and 76 are accessible via a window 18 in the drawer side mount 18.

[0075] Figure 5a and 5b An example of the drawer during horizontal displacement is shown. The two figures show the drawer front panel from above (i.e., looking down along the Y-axis). Figure 5a Shown in a first orientation. The primary adjustment plate 36 (clip plate) and the secondary adjustment plate 38, as well as the transmission 56, can be seen. By rotating the transmission 56 clockwise, the screw 56 will engage with the second tertiary plate 40 and, due to the action of the cam surface 64, cause the horizontal displacement unit 50 to move to the right along the Z-axis (as viewed from the front of the drawer). Rotating the screw 56 in the reverse direction will cause horizontal displacement in the opposite direction.

[0076] Figure 6a and Figure 6bA perspective view of the primary adjustment plate 36 (also referred to as the snap-in plate) is shown. The connecting member 32 is shown in Figure 6a in a disengaged state and in Figure 6b in an engaged state. As shown in Figure 6a , the primary adjustment plate 36 includes a snap-in member 90, a spring 92, a transmission arm 94, and a reset mechanism 96. The snap-in member 90 includes a formed groove 158. Note that Figure 6a the perspective view of the primary adjustment plate 36 shown is different from that in Figure 3 .

[0077] Regarding Figure 4 , it can be seen that the primary adjustment plate 36 includes a slider 100 that slides in a groove to allow the snap-in member 90 to move vertically relative to the primary adjustment plate 36 (when the adjustment unit is in place in the cabinet). A pivot 102 is provided to allow the transmission arm 94 to rotate about it.

[0078] A tab 104 formed on the snap-in member 90 is located in a groove or slide rail 106. One end of the slide rail 106 includes a groove 108. The tab 104, the groove 106, and the recess 108 together form the primary locking device.

[0079] The primary adjustment plate 36 includes a groove 156. This groove 156 is oriented substantially in the X direction (see Figure 4 ).

[0080] In Figure 6a , the snap-in member 90 is locked in the disengaged position. The tab 104 is located in the groove 108. The spring 92 is compressed and held in the compressed state via the snap-in member 90 supported on the transmission arm 94, and the transmission arm 94 in turn presses against the spring 92.

[0081] When the connecting member 32 is pushed towards the groove 158, the snap-in member 90 is pushed inwards until the tab 104 is pushed out of the groove 108. At this time, the spring 92 is no longer restricted and begins to extend, thus pushing the transmission arm 94 upwards. Therefore, the snap-in member restricted by the slider 100 is pushed upwards. The connecting member 32 is thus fixed between the intersection of the groove 158 and the groove 156.

[0082] The reset mechanism 96 includes a screw with an integrated rack and gear structure that engages with the snap-in member 90. Rotating the reset mechanism 96 will push the snap-in member downwards, thus allowing the connecting member to be released and the tab 104 to be able to engage in the groove 108.

[0083] It should be understood that each of the secondary plate 38 and the first and second tertiary plates 34, 40 includes a recess or notch to allow the spring 92 to be accommodated.

[0084] Figure 7And Figure 8 FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment. For ease of reference, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment will be used. Figure 7 corresponds to that of the first embodiment Figure 1 while Figure 8 corresponds to that in the first embodiment Figure 3 . The second embodiment is applicable to larger (deeper) drawers. Therefore, the main adjustment plate 36 of the snap - on plate 36 of the connector 32, and the connector itself are elongated. It should be noted that the connector 32 and the snap - on plate 36 have two engagement points 32a, 32b.

[0085] The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment and includes an anchoring frame 30 fixed to the drawer frame 12. Generally, the anchoring frame 30 is fixed to the drawer slide. It can be fixed to the top surface 16 of the slide 14. During all adjustments of the drawer front panel 10, the anchoring frame 30 remains stationary relative to the drawer frame 12.

[0086] The connector 32 is pre - installed inside the drawer front panel 10. During the adjustment process, the connector 32 remains stationary relative to the drawer front panel 10.

[0087] As Figure 8 shown from left to right in FIG., the fastening unit 20 further includes a first tertiary adjustment plate 34, a main adjustment plate 36, a secondary adjustment plate 38, and a second tertiary adjustment plate 40. The second embodiment also includes a lid 80 adapted to the connector 32.

[0088] It should be noted that the main adjustment plate and the secondary adjustment plate are vertically displaced in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In addition, the equivalent second tertiary plate 40 includes a pin 52, and the main adjustment plate and the secondary adjustment plate are operable to rotate about the pin 52 to allow horizontal displacement, which is the same as according to the first embodiment. The Figure 5a and 5b arrangement shown in FIG. is mirrored in the second embodiment.

[0089] Figure 9a and Figure 9b FIG. shows the vertical tilting operation related to the second embodiment. It should be understood that this operation is equally applicable to the first embodiment.

[0090] The anchoring plate 30 is mounted on the top surface 16 of the slide 14. The first tertiary plate 34 is mounted on the anchoring plate 30 by a pin 72 and is supported by a cam 76. The second tertiary plate 40 is fixed to the first tertiary plate 34, on which the main adjustment plate and the secondary adjustment plate 38 have been installed.

[0091] Rotating the cam 76 causes the fastening unit 20 to rotate about the pin 72. Figure 9a FIG. shows a first position, whereFigure 9b The front panel 10 of the drawer is shown at an angle relative to the drawer frame.

[0092] The pin 72 is located below the top surface 16 of the slide rail 14. Such an arrangement allows for a greater range of movement of the front panel 10 of the drawer.

[0093] Embodiments of a substrate with snap - on members are shown in FIGS. 10 to 13. Such a substrate can be advantageously used in the above - described three - way adjustment unit. The substrate includes a primary adjustment plate and is operably engaged with a connecting member. Such a connecting member can be similar to the connecting member described above.

[0094] Figure 10a and 10b A substrate 36 with a snap - on member 90 is shown. Under the action of a spring 92, the snap - on member is operable to move between a first position and a second position. A reset device 96 is provided to return the snap - on member 90 from the second position to the first position. The reset device 96 includes a rack - and - pinion type screw that is operable to engage with the snap - on member. The reset device is operable to accommodate a screwdriver or a similar tool. By rotating the reset device 96, the rack - and - pinion screw pushes the snap - on member to the first position under the action of the spring 92.

[0095] The snap - on member 90 includes first and second sliders 100 that are operable to move in grooves 150. The grooves 150 each include a recess 152. The sliders 100, grooves 150, and recesses 152 together constitute a secondary locking device. Note that the sliders 100a, grooves 150a, and recesses 152a refer to the upper secondary locking device associated with the upper engagement point. The sliders 100b, grooves 150b, and recesses 152b refer to the lower secondary locking device associated with the lower engagement point.

[0096] The snap - on member 90 further includes a tab 104 that is operable to move within a groove 106. The groove 106 includes a recess 108 at one end that is operable to accommodate the tab 104.

[0097] When the snap - on member 90 is in the first position relative to the substrate 36, the first and second sliders 100 are located in the recesses 152. Similarly, the tab 104 is held in the recess in the groove 108. Thus, the spring is held in a compressed state by the sliders 100 and the tab 104. The tab 104, groove 106, and recess 108 together define the primary locking device.

[0098] The connecting member 32 can be pre - installed on the front panel 10 of the drawer. The connecting member includes two engagement points 32a, 32b. The engagement points generally include rods.

[0099] The substrate 36 includes a pair of opening grooves 156 which are spaced apart to receive the engagement points 32a, 32b on the connecting member 32. The grooves 156 are shown most clearly in Figure 10b When the drawer is moved into and out of the cabinet, the grooves are oriented along the same axis. Using the previous coordinate system (reproduced in Figure 10a and 10b ), this is in the X direction.

[0100] The snap member 90 includes first and second grooves 158a, 158b. The snap member grooves 158 are angled relative to the opening grooves 156 on the substrate. The snap member grooves 158 are generally angled relative to the opening grooves 156 in the X-Y plane.

[0101] It can be understood that the two opening grooves are substantially the same, and the two angled grooves 158 are substantially the same.

[0102] When the snap member 90 is held in the first position, the open ends of the substrate grooves 156 and the open ends of the snap member grooves are substantially aligned, as shown in Figure 10a and 10b .

[0103] The secondary locking device is preferably balanced by one or more springs. In a preferred arrangement, the snap member 90 includes first and second leaf springs 160. The first leaf spring 160a is operable to act on the first slider 100a, and the second leaf spring 160b is operable to act on the second slider 100b.

[0104] Figure 11a And FIGS. 11b show the connecting member 32 ready to engage with the fastening unit. The connecting member pushes the snap member, thereby forcing the snap member towards the substrate. The tab 104 is pushed out of the recess of the groove 108. The first and second leaf springs 160 respectively push the first and second sliders 100 out of the recess 152. Thus, the spring 90 is operable to push the snap member 90 to its second position. Accordingly, the snap member grooves 158 move relative to the substrate grooves 156 such that the rods of the corresponding engagement points are fixed at the intersection of the substrate grooves and the snap member grooves 158. This position is shown in Figure 12a and 12b . In this arrangement, the connecting member 32 is fixed to the fastening unit.

[0105] The advantage of this arrangement is that a single spring 92 is used to perform the connection operation. By providing a single spring, the manufacture of the fastening unit, especially the assembly, is simpler than an arrangement relying on multiple springs.

[0106] Figure 13a and 13bAn example is shown which illustrates that if neither of the two engagement points is present on the substrate 36 simultaneously, the connection operation protection measure is not activated.

[0107] In the example shown, the lower engagement point (as shown) is present on the substrate, but the upper engagement point is not. The lower leaf spring 160b pushes the lower slider 100b out of the lower recess 152b. However, the slider 100a is not pushed out of the groove 152a, and thus the tab 104 is not pushed out of its groove 108. In this way, the latching member 90 cannot move to the second position.

[0108] Figure 14a and 14b A variant embodiment is shown. In this arrangement, the secondary locking device is directly pushed by the connecting member 32. No leaf spring is configured here. When the connecting member is pushed towards the fastening unit, the connecting member forces the tab 104 out of the groove 108, and the slider 100 is pushed out of the groove 152. Accordingly, the spring 92 pushes the latching member 90 into its second position.

[0109] If the connecting member 32 is not properly angled, for example, only one connection point is engaged, the slider at the unengaged point will not be pushed out of the groove 152, and thus the latching member will not operate. In this case, if the attachment of the connecting element to the latching member is misaligned, the secondary locking device will also tilt around the central primary locking device.

[0110] In Figures 15 to 17 another embodiment of the fastening module 20 is shown. In this embodiment, the secondary adjustment plate is eliminated. Where possible, for ease of comparison and understanding, the same reference numerals as in the previous embodiment will be used. The connecting member 32 is pre-attached inside the drawer front panel 10. During the adjustment process, the connecting member 32 is stationary relative to the drawer front panel 10.

[0111] As Figure 15 shown from left to right, the fastening unit 20 further includes a first adjustment plate 34, a second adjustment plate 36, and a third adjustment plate 40.

[0112] Figure 16 A front perspective view of the fastening unit 20 according to the first embodiment is shown, shown in an exploded manner for ease of viewing. In this figure, the connecting member 32 is in the front, and the third adjustment plate 40, the second adjustment plate 36, the first adjustment plate 34, and the anchoring frame 30 are shown in sequence from left to right.

[0113] Figure 15 and Figure 16 both show the same orthogonal axes as shown in Figure 1 When the fastening unit 20 is in use, the Y-axis is the longitudinal axis, the X-axis is the direction of drawer movement (opening and closing), and the Z-axis is parallel to the front surface of the drawer front panel 10.

[0114] In use, the second adjustment plate 36 is operable to engage and secure the connecting member 32. The connection process is as described in the other previous embodiments.

[0115] It should be noted that for such an arrangement, an elongated embodiment similar to that shown in Figures 8 to 1 FIG. 4 can also be considered.

[0116] Figure 17 The assembled form of this embodiment is shown. In use, the first adjustment plate 34, the second adjustment plate 36, and the third adjustment plate 40 together form an inclination unit 74 that is operable to incline about the Z-axis. When assembling the fastening module 20, the first and third plates are fixed together such that there is substantially no relative movement between the two plates. The first plate 34 includes a tab 66 that includes a hole 68. The anchoring frame 30 includes a hole 70. The holes 68 and 70 are positioned to receive a pin when the fastening unit 20 is assembled for use. The pin 72 allows the inclination unit 74 to incline about the Z-axis relative to the anchoring frame 30. This operation is similar to the embodiments described previously.

[0117] The anchoring frame 30 includes a cam 76 that is operable to engage a cam surface 78 on the anchoring frame 30. The cam 76 includes a protrusion that engages a hole 77 on the first three-stage adjustment plate 34. The cam 76 includes means for receiving a tool (such as a screwdriver) to rotate the cam 76. Rotating the cam 76 causes the cam to engage the cam surface 78 and inclines the inclination unit 74. Similarly, this operation is similar to the embodiments described previously.

[0118] The second plate 36 is operable to incline horizontally and shift vertically relative to the first and third plates 34, 40.

[0119] The second plate 36 includes first and second lugs 200, 202. Each of the first and third plates 34, 40 includes first and second holes 204, 206 respectively. In use, the hole 204 and the lug 200 are aligned, and the hole 206 and the lug 202 are aligned. The lugs 200, 202 are fixed in the holes 204, 206.

[0120] The second plate 36 includes elongated holes 208, 210. When assembled, the corresponding lugs 200, 202 pass through the respective elongated holes 208, 210. Thus, the second plate 36 is held between the first and third plates, but has a certain degree of freedom of movement relative to the first and third plates.

[0121] The third plate 40 includes a raised member 212 that includes an inner hollow defined by an inner cam surface 214. The raised member 212 can be considered a grommet.

[0122] As in the previous embodiment, the adjusting plate (i.e., the second plate 36) includes a cam 42 mounted thereon, which serves as a transmission element.

[0123] The cam 42 engages a cam surface 44 on the plate 36. The cam 42 includes a protrusion that engages a cam surface 214 of a raised member 212 on the third plate 40. The cam 42 includes means for adjustment. Typically, this will be a slot or cross-shaped structure for accommodating a screwdriver or similar tool. Rotating the cam 42 causes the cam 42 to engage the cam surface 214 and allows the second plate 36 to move relative to the third plate 38. When the connecting member 32 engages the second plate 36, the movement of the second plate 36 causes the movement of the connecting member 32. In this way, the drawer front panel 10 can be adjusted relative to the drawer frame 12 in the vertical direction.

[0124] The elongated holes 208, 210 allow the second plate to move vertically relative to the lugs 200, 202.

[0125] By the action of the transmission 56, the second plate 36 is operable to tilt about the Y-axis. Specifically, the transmission passes through a hole in the second plate 36. The inner surface of the hole and the transmission include complementary threads to allow precise positioning of the transmission 56 relative to the second plate 36.

[0126] When the fastening module 20 is in its assembled state, the second plate 36 is located between the first and third plates 34, 40. The transmission 56 is operable to engage either the first plate 34 or the third plate 40, depending on its position relative to the second plate 36. By pushing the transmission 56 against the first plate or the third plate, the intermediate second plate 36 can be tilted about the Y-axis. It should be understood that the second plate 36 (i.e., the snap-in plate) includes a rear edge 216. The second plate 36 is operable to pivot about its rear edge 216.

[0127] The rear edge need not be continuous. One or more tabs can be provided, or the rear edge can be serrated.

[0128] The outer plates 34, 40 each include corresponding tabs 218, 220. From Figure 17 It can be seen that when the fastening unit 20 is assembled, the tabs 218, 220 engage the rear edge 216 of the snap-in plate 36. In this arrangement, since the snap-in plate 36 is held in place by the tabs 218, 220, the snap-in plate 36 is operable to pivot about the rear edge.

[0129] It should be understood that these tabs can be replaced by continuous segments. Any arrangement that essentially keeps the rear edge in place so that the snap-in plate is operable to pivot about it can be considered. Figure 18An example of such an arrangement is shown. The pivot axis 216 is formed by a pair of tabs 300. In this arrangement, the outer plate 34 includes an upper tab 218 and a lower tab 220. In this arrangement, the outer plate 40 includes a shaped plate 302. The shaped plate 302 includes two cutout portions operable to receive the tabs 300, as well as the upper tab 218 and the lower tab 220. In this arrangement, the tabs 300 are sandwiched between the shaped plate 302 and the corresponding upper tab 218 and lower tab 220. Accordingly, the second plate 36 (i.e., the snap plate 36) is operable to pivot relative to the shaped plate 302, the upper tab 218, and the lower tab 220.

[0130] The connecting member 32 engages the snap plate as described in the above embodiment.

[0131] Accordingly, the present device provides a complete fastening adjustment unit operable to quickly mount a drawer front panel to a drawer frame and provides means for adjusting the position of the drawer front panel in three independent directions.

[0132] The above-described embodiments are for reference only, and many variations and modifications are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel pre - installed with a connecting member to a drawer frame, the fastening unit comprising: An anchoring unit operable to be attached to the drawer frame; An adjusting unit including a clamping plate operable to receive the connecting member, the adjusting unit being operable to move the clamping plate in three directions and transfer the movement to the connecting member.

2. The fastening unit according to claim 1, wherein, The three directions include: Vertical displacement; Horizontal shift; Vertical tilt.

3. The fastening unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The adjusting unit includes three separate corresponding devices to act on each of the three directions.

4. The fastening unit according to claim 3, wherein, The three separate devices are positioned adjacent to each other on the fastening unit.

5. The fastening unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The drawer frame includes a slide rail, the slide rail including a top surface, wherein the fastening unit is attached to the slide rail.

6. The fastening unit according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The vertical tilt direction acts around a single pivot point.

7. The fastening unit according to claim 6, when dependent on claim 5, wherein, The single pivot point is below the top surface of the slide rail.

8. The fastening unit according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein, The horizontal shift occurs around a single pivot coaxial with the axis of rotation of the vertical tilt.

9. The fastening unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The adjusting unit includes a secondary plate abutting against the clamping plate, wherein the clamping plate is operable to move in a vertical direction relative to the secondary plate.

10. The fastening unit according to claim 9, when dependent on claim 8, wherein, The clamping plate and the secondary plate are operable to horizontally shift together around the single pivot.

11. The fastening unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The adjusting unit includes a pair of outer plates, wherein the clamping plate is held between the outer plates.

12. The fastening unit according to claim 11, wherein, The clamping plate has two degrees of freedom of movement relative to the outer plates.

13. The fastening unit according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The clamping plate includes a rear edge, and wherein the rear edge engages at least a portion of one or more of the outer plates to define a pivot axis.

14. The fastening unit according to claim 13, wherein, The rear edge is discontinuous.

15. The fastening unit according to claim 14, wherein, The rear edge includes one or more tabs.

16. The fastening unit according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein, During vertical tilt operation, the adjusting unit as a whole tilts relative to the anchoring unit.

17. A fastening unit operable to mount a drawer front panel to a drawer frame, the fastening unit comprising: A connecting member operable to be pre - installed on the drawer front panel; A base plate having engaging members operable to engage with the connecting member, wherein the engagement is through at least two engagement points, wherein The base plate includes a clamping plate operable to move from a first position for receiving the connecting member to a second position for fixing the connecting member, wherein The clamping plate moves between the first position and the second position under the action of a single spring.

18. The fastening unit according to claim 17, wherein, The at least two engagement points are substantially the same.

19. The fastening unit according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The clamping plate is held in the first position by a primary locking device, and in particular, wherein the primary locking device is held in position by a secondary locking device.

20. The fastening unit according to claim 19, wherein, The secondary locking device includes at least one lock associated with each of the engagement points.

21. The fastening unit according to claim 20, wherein, Two secondary locking devices need to be released to unlock the primary locking device.

22. The fastening unit according to claim 20 or 21, wherein, The secondary locking devices are balanced by one or more springs.

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