A retractable cabinet and a method thereof
The retractable cabinet system addresses accessibility issues in high-ceiling spaces by using a taut rope and gas springs to provide controlled access to overhead storage, optimizing space and safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/IB2024/055433
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-04-12
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-04
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-16
AI Technical Summary
Existing storage cabinets face challenges with accessibility, especially in confined spaces with high ceilings, leading to underutilized overhead space and potential safety risks when retrieving items from high shelves.
A retractable cabinet system utilizing a taut rope and gas springs to extend or retract shelves from a ceiling-mounted frame, providing controlled and safe access to overhead storage.
Optimizes space utilization by allowing easy access to overhead storage, enhancing safety and reducing clutter in confined environments.
Smart Images

Figure IB2024055433_16102025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] A RETRACTABLE CABINET AND A METHOD THEREOF
[0002] EARLIEST PRIORITY DATE
[0003] This Application claims priority from a Complete patent application filed in India having Patent Application No. 202421029865 filed on 12th day of April 2024 and titled A RETRACTABLE CABINET AND A METHOD THEREOF.
[0004] FIELD OF INVENTION
[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of storage cabinets, and more particularly a retractable cabinet and a method thereof.
[0006] BACKGROUND
[0007] Storage cabinets are furnishing elements that offer enclosed storage for various items, including household belongings, office supplies, and personal items. The storage cabinets come in various designs, sizes, and materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic, and may feature doors, drawers, or shelves for organization. There are various types of cabinets, including freestanding cabinets, wall-mounted cabinets, and modular cabinets. The freestanding cabinets stand independently and moved or repositioned as needed, while the wall-mounted cabinets save floor space and provide additional storage options in limited spaces. Further, the modular cabinets are customizable and configured to fit specific needs and spaces. Furthermore, the storage cabinets range in size and capacity, from petite cabinets with few shelves to ample cabinets with multiple cubicles or drawers.
[0008] Furthermore, space optimization involves utilizing vertical dimensions of the room, creating additional storage capacity by using walls instead of floor space. Moreover, efficient organization allows for designated spaces for storage and display, making it easier to locate and access items when needed. However, space optimization in a confined space is a challenge. An existing solution is the provision of vertical storage.
[0009] Conventionally, vertical storage is a use of vertical space within a room or storage area to store items. Further, the vertical storage involves use of shelves, racks, cabinets, or other storage units that extend upwards from floor towards ceiling. Vertical storage solutions are popular for maximizing space in both residential and commercial settings. Key aspects of vertical storage include space optimization, efficient organization, versatility, aesthetic appeal, accessibility, flexibility, and space-saving.
[0010] Although the vertical storage offers numerous benefits, there are several potential drawbacks. Accessibility is a challenge, especially for users with mobility issues or tall ceilings. Retrieving items from high shelves may require a step stool or ladder, which can be inconvenient and potentially unsafe. Additionally, storing heavy or bulky items on high shelves may pose safety risks, as the bulky items may fall or become unstable.
[0011] Further, overhead space often remains unused in confined spaces like rooms, storage areas, or cabinets due to accessibility issues, particularly in high ceilings or tall cabinets. People may find it difficult to reach items stored overhead, leading to a tendency to avoid using it.
[0012] Hence, there is a need for an improved system for storage cabinet and a method thereof which addresses the aforementioned issue(s).
[0013] OBJECTIVE OF THE INVENTION
[0014] An objective of the invention is to provide an overhead retractable storage to optimize space utilization in confined environments. Another objective of the invention is to operate the retractable cabinet by using a taut rope to extend or retract a plurality of items from the retractable cabinet with ease thereby optimizing space utilization.
[0015] BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0016] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a retractable cabinet is provided. The retractable cabinet includes an outer frame unit mounted to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit is made of square tube profile. The retractable cabinet also includes a plurality of gas springs connected to the outer frame unit wherein the plurality of gas springs is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame unit when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Further, the retractable cabinet includes a damper unit connected to the plurality of gas springs wherein the damper unit is adapted to provide a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet when the retractable cabinet is in operation state. Furthermore, the retractable cabinet includes an inner frame unit connected to the damper unit wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to accommodate a plurality of shelves to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Moreover, the retractable cabinet includes a taut rope connected to the inner frame unit wherein the taut rope is adapted to trigger the plurality of gas springs to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit to store or retrieve the plurality of items. Additionally, the retractable cabinet also triggers the plurality of gas springs to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit to securely fit into the outer frame unit thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment. Further, the retractable cabinet includes a plurality of connecting links adapted to connect the inner frame unit with the outer frame unit. Furthermore, the retractable cabinet includes a plank unit coupled to the inner frame unit. In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method to operate a retractable cabinet is provided. The method includes mounting, by an outer frame unit, to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit is made of square tube profile. The method also includes nesting, by a plurality of gas springs, inside the outer frame unit when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Further, the method includes providing, by a damper unit, a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet when the retractable cabinet is in operation state. Further, the method also includes accommodating, by an inner frame unit, a plurality of shelves to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Furthermore, the method includes triggering, by a taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit to store or retrieve the plurality of items. Furthermore, the method also includes triggering, by the taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit to securely fit into the outer frame unit thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment.
[0017] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
[0018] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which: FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a retractable cabinet in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b and FIG. 2c are a schematic representations of the retractable cabinet of FIG. 1 in closed state, transition state and in open state in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 3 (a) and 3 (b) is a schematic representation of a damper unit and a plurality of gas springs respectively in a retractable cabinet of FIG.l in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method to operate a retractable cabinet in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0026] The terms “comprises”, “comprising”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0028] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0029] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a retractable cabinet. The retractable cabinet includes an outer frame unit mounted to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit is made of square tube profile. The retractable cabinet also includes a plurality of gas springs connected to the outer frame unit wherein the plurality of gas springs is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame unit when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Further, the retractable cabinet includes a damper unit connected to the plurality of gas springs wherein the damper unit is adapted to provide a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet when the retractable cabinet is in operation state. Furthermore, the retractable cabinet includes an inner frame unit connected to the damper unit wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to accommodate a plurality of shelves to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position. Moreover, the retractable cabinet includes a taut rope connected to the inner frame unit wherein the taut rope is adapted to trigger the plurality of gas springs to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit to store or retrieve the plurality of items. Additionally, the retractable cabinet also trigger the plurality of gas springs to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit to securely fit into the outer frame unit thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment. Further, the retractable cabinet includes a plurality of connecting links adapted to connect the inner frame unit with the outer frame unit. Furthermore, the retractable cabinet includes a plank unit coupled to the inner frame unit.
[0030] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a retractable cabinet (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The retractable cabinet (100) includes an outer frame unit (105) mounted to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts. In one embodiment, the ceiling surface pertains to a confined environment. Examples of the confined environment includes, but is not limited to, residences, offices, factories and shops. Typically, the foundation bolts secure the outer frame unit (105) to the ceiling surface, providing stability and support, especially when the retractable cabinet (100) is extended or loaded, preventing swaying, or shifting during use. Further, the outer frame unit (105) is made of square tube profile. In one embodiment, the outer frame unit (105) is made of any other suitable profile, for instance, rectangular tube profile. Typically, the square tube profile, with square cross- sectional shape and four equal sides and right-angle corners, offers structural stability and uniform load-bearing capacity. The retractable cabinet (100) also includes a plurality of gas springs (110) connected to the outer frame unit. As used herein, the plurality of gas springs (110), also known as gas struts or gas shocks, are mechanical devices that use compressed gas, typically nitrogen, to provide controlled force for various applications. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) includes a cylinder filled with the compressed gas and a piston rod that extends and retracts within the cylinder. The compressed gas is held under pressure, creating a force that seeks to expand the cylinder. The piston rod, connected to the piston, compresses the gas inside the cylinder, creating resistance. Furthermore, the plurality of gas springs (110) provides controlled motion by regulating the flow of gas between the piston rod and piston sides, allowing for adjustable flow rates to control speed and force. Typically, the plurality of gas springs (110) facilitates smooth and effortless retraction by providing controlled force when user initiates process, reducing the user effort and ensuring consistent and controlled movement, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) ensures optimal performance and reliability for the retractable cabinet, adjusting force based on weight and size of the plurality of items stored, regardless of cabinet dimensions. The plurality of gas springs (110) is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame unit (105) when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a retracted position. Typically, the plurality of gas springs (110) are adapted to customize extension force to match load requirements wherein the load corresponds to the plurality of items by weight. The plurality of gas springs (110) is designed to support weight of the plurality of items stored within the retractable cabinet (100) by providing necessary extension force in the operation state, based on the specific pressure levels or specifications. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) features a double sealing mechanism for leak prevention and durability. The double sealing mechanism prevents compressed gas from escaping from the plurality of gas springs, ensuring spring maintains internal pressure for effective functioning. Further, the double sealing mechanism enhances the plurality of gas spring's longevity and reliability by providing additional protection against wear and environmental factors, ensuring seal integrity.
[0031] Further, the retractable cabinet (100) includes a damper unit (115) connected to the plurality of gas springs (110). Typically, the damper unit (115) is a component that regulates and controls motion of the retractable cabinet (100), ensuring smooth and controlled operation. The damper unit (115) regulates speed, ensuring smooth and controlled movement. This enhances the user experience by providing effortless operation and preventing abrupt movements. Further, controlled motion of the damper unit (115) reduces noise and vibrations. Furthermore, the damper unit (115) is adapted to provide a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet (100) when the retractable cabinet (100) is in operation state. Typically, the retractable cabinet’s smooth and safe descent is ensured through a gradual and controlled descent, reducing risk of accidents or injuries, especially when the retractable cabinet (100) is heavy or when the users are nearby.
[0032] Further, the retractable cabinet (100) also includes an inner frame unit (120) connected to the damper unit (115). The inner frame unit (120) is adapted to accommodate a plurality of shelves (125) to store a plurality of items. Examples of the plurality of items include, but is not limited to kitchen essentials, household appliances, food containers, pantry items, and clothes. The inner frame unit (120) is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame unit (105) when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a retracted position thereby making the retractable cabinet (100) benefit in limited spaces as it efficiently uses available space. Typically, the plurality of shelves (125) is customized based on a user requirement and each of the plurality of shelves (125) is fitted into an adjustable frame.
[0033] Furthermore, the retractable cabinet (100) includes a taut rope (130) connected to the inner frame unit (120). As used herein, the taut rope (130) is a mechanism used to pull or retract the inner frame unit (120) of the retractable cabinet (100). The taut tope (130) applies tension to the inner frame unit (120), causing to extend or retract into the outer frame unit (105) thereby allows for controlled movement, ensuring smooth and precise manipulation, minimizing risk of sudden movements, and ensuring ease of operation. The taut rope (130) is adapted to trigger the plurality of gas springs (110) to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit (120) to store or retrieve the plurality of items. Further, the taut rope (130) is adapted to trigger the plurality of gas springs (110) to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit (120) to securely fit into the outer frame unit (105) thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment.
[0034] Moreover, the retractable cabinet (100) includes a plurality of connecting links (135). The plurality of connecting links (135) is adapted to provide pivot points and mechanical locks at an angle of 90-degree from the ceiling surface. Typically, providing the pivot points and the mechanical locks at a 90-degree angle is a mechanism that allows rotation and secure locking of the retractable cabinet. Further, installing the pivot points on the ceiling surface to support weight of the retractable cabinet. Furthermore, the mechanical locks are integrated into the pivot points to secure the retractable cabinet when rotated 90-degree from the ceiling surface, engaging automatically when the retractable cabinet reaches desired position. The plurality of connecting links (135) provides a connection between the inner frame unit (120) and the outer frame unit (105).
[0035] Additionally, the retractable cabinet (100) includes a plank unit (140). The plank unit (140) connected to the inner frame unit (120). The plank unit (140) is adapted to support the plurality of items and prevent from tipping.
[0036] It is to be noted that, arrow mark represents in the FIG. 1 indicates that the retractable cabinet (100) is tended to be in closed state when the taut rope (130) triggers the plurality of gas springs (110) thereby fitting the inner frame unit (120) to the outer frame unit (105). FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b and FIG. 2c are schematic representations of the retractable cabinet in a closed state, transition state and open state respectively in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Typically, in the closed state, the plurality of shelves (125) is fully enclosed within the retractable cabinet (100). Further, in the closed state, the retractable cabinet (100) appears as a rectangular structure with no extended plurality of shelves (125). Furthermore, when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a transition state, the plurality of shelves (125) is partially opened when a user tugs the taut rope (130). Moreover, when the retractable cabinet (100) is in the open state, the plurality of shelves (125) is fully opened, thereby the user stores the plurality of items upon pulling the taut rope (130).
[0037] In an example, consider a scenario where user ‘X’ resides in his residence with minimal storage space in a kitchen. The user ‘X’ decides to install the retractable cabinet (100) in the kitchen to provide additional storage. The user ‘X’ mounts the retractable cabinet (100) to the ceiling surface using the foundation bolts, thereby fitting the outer frame unit (105) of the retractable cabinet (100) to the ceiling surface. Further, the user ‘X’ is allowed to pull the taut rope (130) towards the ceiling surface, thereby the plurality of shelves (125) is fully opened. Furthermore, the user ‘X’ is allowed to arrange all the dishes in the retractable cabinet (100). Upon arranging the dishes, the user ‘X’ pulls the taut rope (130), thereby the taut rope (130) triggers the plurality of gas springs (110) of the retractable cabinet (100) to a closed state, thereby utilizing the overhead storage in the kitchen.
[0038] FIG. 3 (a) and 3 (b) is a schematic representation of a damper unit (115) and a plurality of gas springs (110) in a retractable cabinet in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The damper unit (115) is a device that slows down the movement of the retractable cabinet (100) in an operation state. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) utilizes compressed gas to control lifting or lowering of movable parts, ensuring smooth and effortless opening, and closing. FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method to operate a retractable cabinet. The method (300) includes mounting, by an outer frame unit, to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit (105) is made of square tube profile in step 310. Typically, the outer frame unit serves as a backbone of the retractable cabinet, providing structural support, guiding movement, and facilitating integration with the inner frame unit and the plurality of shelves.
[0039] In one embodiment, the retractable unit includes a plurality of shelves (125) and is customized based on a user requirement and each of the plurality of shelves (125) is fitted into an adjustable frame.
[0040] The method (300) also includes nesting, by a plurality of gas springs, inside the outer frame unit when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a retracted position in step 320. Typically, the plurality of gas springs enhances cabinet accessibility by facilitating smooth and effortless movements for the users.
[0041] In one embodiment, the plurality of gas springs (110) features a double sealing mechanism for leak prevention and durability.
[0042] In one embodiment, the plurality of gas springs (110) are adapted to extend or retract the inner frame unit (120) to store or retrieve the plurality of items.
[0043] In another embodiment, the retractable cabinet (100) includes a plurality of connecting links adapted to provide pivot points and mechanical locks at an angle of 90-degree from the ceiling surface. Further, the plurality of connecting links provides a connection between the inner frame unit (120) and the outer frame unit. Further, the connecting links in a retractable cabinet (100) help to bind various components of the retractable cabinet (100) together, allowing for smooth and coordinated movement as the cabinet extends or retracts. Yet in another embodiment, the plurality of gas springs (110) are adapted to customize extension force to match load requirements wherein the load corresponds to the plurality of items by weight.
[0044] Further, the method (300) includes providing, by a damper unit, a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet when the retractable cabinet is in operation state in step 330. Typically, the damper unit is a crucial component in the retractable cabinet, regulating speed and movement during extension or retracement.
[0045] In one embodiment, the damper unit (115) ensures safety measures when the plurality of gas springs (110) fails. Typically, the damper unit controls the speed of the retractable cabinet, ensuring smooth and controlled movement, preventing sudden jolts or jerks, thereby providing comfortable and secure experience to the users.
[0046] Further, the method (300) also includes accommodating, by an inner frame unit, a plurality of shelves to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position in step 340.
[0047] Furthermore, the method (300) includes triggering, by a taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit to store or retrieve the plurality of items in step 350.
[0048] Moreover, the method includes triggering, by the taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit to securely fit into the outer frame unit thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment in step 360.
[0049] In one embodiment, the retractable cabinet includes a plank unit (140) connected to the inner frame unit wherein the plank unit (140) is adapted to support the plurality of items and prevent from tipping. Various embodiments of the retractable cabinet (100) and a method thereof as described above provide a ceiling-mounted retractable cabinet (100) optimizes floor space, making ideal for mini rooms or areas with limited floor space thereby enhancing organization by keeping the plurality of items easily accessible yet out of the way, reducing clutter and creating a more functional living or working environment. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) is easy to install, assisted lifting, safety, space-saving, versatility, durability. Further, the plurality of gas springs (110) offers a smooth, efficient, and safe solution when the retractable cabinet (100) is in operation state. Furthermore, the damper unit (115) enhances functionality and organization of retractable cabinets by providing soft, controlled closing, safety, noise reduction, hardware longevity, and customizable speed. Moreover, the inner frame unit enhances storage capacity of the retractable cabinet, facilitating clean organization and containment of the plurality of items. Additionally, the taut rope (130) simplifies cabinet the retractable cabinet (100) extension and retracement, allowing the users (of all age groups) to effortlessly access stored the plurality of items by pulling or releasing the rope. Consequently, the retractable cabinet (100) is user-friendly. Additionally, the retractable cabinet (100) integrates seamlessly with the ceiling thereby preserving aesthetics of the environment while enhancing storage capacity.
[0050] The retractable cabinet (100) can be used in several applications areas. Examples of the application areas and corresponding use is listed below:
[0051] 1. Residence: Ideal for homes and apartments to store seasonal items, luggage, or rarely used belongings, optimizing space.
[0052] 2. Shops: An excellent solution for shops and retail spaces to store inventory, tools, merchandise, and more.
[0053] 3. Office: Enhances office organization by creating additional storage for documents, supplies, or equipment. 4. Garage: Utilize overhead space in garages to store tools, automotive supplies, sporting equipment, and more.
[0054] 5. Basement: Maximize storage in basements for household items, seasonal decorations, and miscellaneous items.
[0055] 6. Factory: Efficiently store equipment, tools, or materials in factory settings, optimizing workspace.
[0056] 7. Mezzanine: Perfect for mezzanine levels in buildings, increasing storage capacity without taking up floor space.
[0057] 8. Bathroom: Add extra storage for toiletries, linens, or bathroom essentials.
[0058] 9. Gallery: Discreetly store artwork, exhibition materials, or valuable items in art galleries.
[0059] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0060] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
[0061] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
Claims
WE CLAIM:
1. A retractable cabinet (100) comprising: characterized in that, an outer frame unit (105) mounted to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit (105) is made of square tube profile; a plurality of gas springs (110) connected to the outer frame unit (105) wherein the plurality of gas springs (110) is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame unit (105) when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a retracted position; a damper unit (115) connected to the plurality of gas springs (110) wherein the damper unit (115) is adapted to provide a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet (100) when the retractable cabinet (100) is in operation state; an inner frame unit (120) connected to the damper unit (115) wherein the inner frame unit (120) is adapted to accommodate a plurality of shelves (125) to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit (120) is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet (100) is in a retracted position; and a taut rope (130) connected to the inner frame unit (120) wherein the taut rope (130) is adapted to: trigger the plurality of gas springs (110) to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit (120) to store or retrieve the plurality of items; and trigger the plurality of gas springs (110) to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit (120) to securely fit into the outer frame unit (105) thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment;a plurality of connecting links (135) adapted to connect the inner frame unit (120) with the outer frame unit (105); and a plank unit (140) coupled to the inner frame unit (120).
2. The retractable cabinet (100) as claimed in claim 1 , comprising the plurality of connecting links (135) adapted to provide pivot points and mechanical locks at an angle of 90-degree from the ceiling surface.
3. The retractable cabinet ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of gas springs (110) are adapted to extend or retract the inner frame unit (120) to store or retrieve the plurality of items.
4. The retractable cabinet (00) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the damper unit (115) ensures safety measures when the plurality of gas springs (110) fails.
5. The retractable cabinet ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of gas springs (110) are adapted to customize extension force to match load requirements wherein the load corresponds to the plurality of items by weight.
6. The retractable cabinet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of shelves (125) is customized based on a user requirement.
7. The retractable cabinet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of shelves (125) is fitted into an adjustable frame.
8. The retractable cabinet ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of gas springs (110) features a double sealing mechanism for leak prevention and durability.
9. The retractable cabinet (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plank unit (140) is adapted to support the plurality of items and prevent from tipping.
10. A method (300) to operate a retractable cabinet (100) comprising:mounting, by an outer frame unit, to a ceiling surface using a plurality of foundation bolts wherein the outer frame unit is made of square tube profile; (310) nesting, by a plurality of gas springs, inside the outer frame unit when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position; (320) providing, by a damper unit, a gradual and controlled descent of the retractable cabinet when the retractable cabinet is in operation state; (330) accommodating, by an inner frame unit, a plurality of shelves to store a plurality of items wherein the inner frame unit is adapted to be nested inside the outer frame when the retractable cabinet is in a retracted position; (340) triggering, by a taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to an extended position to pull-down the inner frame unit to store or retrieve the plurality of items; (350) and triggering, by the taut rope, the plurality of gas springs to a retracted position to push-up the inner frame unit to securely fit into the outer frame unit thereby providing overhead storage in an unutilized space of an environment. (360)
Citation Information
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