Adjustable Refrigerator Shelf Assembly for Easy Height Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators require cumbersome processes to adjust shelf heights, involving the removal and reinstallation of shelves and food items, leading to inconvenient and inefficient use of space, especially when accommodating items of varying heights.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator with a height-adjustable shelf assembly that includes a panel, movable protrusions, a guide, and a height adjusting unit, allowing for manual adjustment of shelf height without electric components, enabling easy assembly, disassembly, and cleaning, and facilitating the accommodation of items of different sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the shelf height is adjusted by separating and re-installing the shelf, then the shelf height can be changed, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support structure transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable position. The protrusions can move along the guide rails between engaged and disengaged states, enabling the shelf height to be adjusted without complete removal. This dynamic mechanism allows users to simply press the release button to move the protrusions along the guide, making height adjustment quick and convenient while maintaining adaptability to different storage needs.
2Device complexity
If the shelf is fixed at pre-set positions, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to accommodate items of different heights is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support structure is segmented into multiple components: the shelf panel, protrusions, guide rails, and release mechanism. This segmentation allows the shelf to maintain a simple overall structure while enabling flexible height adjustment. The protrusions can be independently positioned at different locations along the guide rails, providing multiple height options without complicating the basic shelf design.
3Extent of automation
If electric components are used for shelf height adjustment, then the adjustment can be automated, but the cost increases and potential failures occur
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf adjustment mechanism is designed to be manually operated without requiring electric components. Users simply press the release button to disengage the protrusions from the guide rails, allowing the shelf to be moved to the desired height. The spring automatically re-engages the protrusions at the new position. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for motors, sensors, or control systems, reducing cost and complexity while maintaining ease of use.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes: a refrigerator main body having a cooling chamber; a cooling chamber door for opening and closing the cooling chamber; a shelf assembly provided within the cooling chamber such that a height thereof is adjustable; and a basket provided in any one of the refrigerator main body and the cooling chamber door such that a height thereof is adjustable. A space of the refrigerator main body or the cooling chamber door can be utilized to facilitate receiving and keeping food items.