A cooling device comprising a height adjustable shelf
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator door shelves require disassembly or repositioning of upper shelves when adjusting the height of high containers, leading to inefficiency and potential accidental dislodgement, especially due to the placement of buttons on the outer surface which can be accidentally activated.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable shelf mechanism with a locking mechanism that moves between two positions via a button, allowing vertical adjustment while preventing accidental dislodgement, featuring a cam element, rib, and guide system to securely attach and detach from support members on the door, with a prestress mechanism for automatic locking and a button position that allows safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the button is disposed on the outer surface of the shelf for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to accidental touching and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The button is inverted from the conventional outer surface placement to the inner surface placement. This inversion allows the button to remain easily accessible to users while being protected from accidental activation by external forces. The button presses against the inner surface of the shelf, requiring intentional action from inside the refrigerator compartment.
Solution Approach 2:
A pressing member is introduced as an intermediary between the user's finger and the button. The pressing member translates the user's pressing motion into button activation while providing mechanical advantage and control. This intermediary mechanism ensures that only deliberate pressing actions can activate the button, preventing accidental dislodgement.
2Manufacturing precision
If the shelf requires disassembly or repositioning of upper shelves for height adjustment, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing, allowing users to adjust shelf height without requiring disassembly or repositioning of other shelves. The independent adjustment mechanism enables each shelf to be moved freely to any height position while maintaining secure locking, eliminating the need for complex multi-step procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position through the button-actuated mechanism. The shelf can be easily moved vertically along the door structure and locked at any desired height, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining manufacturing precision through the locking mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shelf is made fully adjustable for versatility, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the button for activation, the pressing member for force transmission, and the locking engagement elements for securing the shelf. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall complexity while maintaining full adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment control function is extracted and concentrated into a single button mechanism, separating it from the shelf structure itself. This extraction simplifies the overall system by providing a dedicated, easy-to-operate control element that manages the complex locking and unlocking operations without adding visual or structural complexity.
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
Enables easy and safe adjustment of shelf height without removing items, preventing accidental dislodgement and simplifying the process by allowing the user to hold the shelf securely during operation, ensuring stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The locking mechanism comprises a cam element that rotates around an axis and a rib connected to the cam element
Implementation Method 2
the locking mechanism comprises a prestress means that brings the button to its free position after the pressure applied on the button is removed
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cooling device (1 ) comprising a door (2), more than one support member (3) disposed on the inner surface of the door (2), arranged one below the other and spaced apart along the vertical direction (Y), a height adjustable shelf (4) mounted on the support members (3), a locking mechanism (5) disposed on the shelf (4), having a first position (P1) wherein the locking mechanism (5) enables the height of the shelf (4) to be fixed by interacting with the support member (3) and a second position (P2) wherein the locking mechanism (5) dislodges from the support member (3), enabling the shelf (4) to move on the support members (3) in the vertical direction (Y).