Storage structure for refrigerator appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigeration appliances lack flexible and efficient storage solutions that accommodate varying sizes and types of food items, particularly in the fresh food compartment, which can limit storage capacity and accessibility.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of an adjustable shelf system with a frame that includes a first and second shelf portion, where the second shelf portion is slidably movable between extended and retracted positions, and a hook member that engages with an auxiliary external track to minimize lateral movement, allowing for increased storage capacity and accessibility by accommodating tall or bulky items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed shelf structure is used, then the shelf provides stable support for food items, but the storage capacity and accessibility are limited for tall or bulky items
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf structure incorporates a second shelf portion that is slidably movable relative to the first shelf portion, transitioning between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic configuration allows the shelf to adapt its shape and size based on storage needs, resolving the contradiction between storage flexibility and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf is divided into multiple portions (first shelf portion and second shelf portion) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation enables the shelf to change its configuration from a single flat surface to an extended multi-level structure, accommodating various item sizes while maintaining structural integrity.
2Volume of moving object
If the second shelf portion is extended to accommodate tall items, then storage capacity increases, but lateral movement and instability occur
Solution Approach 1:
A hook member is introduced as an intermediary element that engages with an auxiliary external track. This hook member acts as a mediator between the movable second shelf portion and the frame, guiding its movement and preventing lateral displacement, thus maintaining stability while enabling extended storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral movement constraint is achieved by replacing complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a simple hook-member-and-track system. This substitution provides effective lateral guidance and stability through a minimalistic mechanical arrangement, reducing complexity while ensuring shelf portion stability during extension.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the second shelf portion is made movable to accommodate varying storage needs, then adaptability improves, but the risk of accidental movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hook member automatically engages with the auxiliary external track when the second shelf portion is extended, providing self-guiding and self-stabilizing functionality. This self-service mechanism ensures that the shelf portion maintains its position reliably without requiring additional locking actions or user intervention, balancing adaptability with position reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable shelf for a refrigerator includes a first and a second shelf portion being slidably moveable between extended and retracted positions. A frame includes a main track that guides the second shelf portion. An auxiliary external track is disposed on an extended lower edge of the frame, following the main track. A hook member is attached to and protrudes downwards from the second shelf portion, the hook member engaging with and sliding along the auxiliary external track to minimize lateral movement of a front end of the second shelf portion as the second shelf portion is slidably moved. In another embodiment, a freezer drawer assembly comprises first and second storage baskets. The second storage basket comprises front roller members that are seated on the first storage unit and are guided along a primary track by parallel, opposing track sidewalls.