Shelf assembly for refrigerator and refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator shelves have fixed heights, leading to inefficient use of space when storing tall items and require cumbersome manual adjustment, which can be dangerous and costly when using electrically-adjustable solutions.
Innovation Solution
A shelf assembly with a slide rail and moving device featuring a bearing plate, locking plate, and positioning members that allow for simple, safe, and cost-effective height adjustment of shelves without disengaging articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If shelves are disposed at fixed heights on liner ribs, then the structure is simple and stable, but the adaptability for storing articles of different heights is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf support structure transitions from a fixed static design to a dynamic adjustable design. The movable shelf can be positioned at multiple heights along the liner ribs, allowing the system to adapt to different storage needs while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of straightforward positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical space between liner ribs is segmented into multiple adjustable positions. Instead of a single fixed shelf, the system divides the space into discrete height levels that can be selectively used, enabling flexible accommodation of articles with varying heights while keeping the overall structure simple.
2Ease of operation
If shelf height is adjusted by removing and repositioning shelves on liner ribs, then the shelf can be repositioned, but the operation is troublesome and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf is pre-equipped with positioning structures that align with predetermined positions on the liner ribs. This preliminary preparation allows users to quickly adjust the shelf height by simply moving the shelf to the desired position without requiring complex disassembly or reconfiguration, significantly reducing adjustment time and effort.
3Ease of operation
If electrically-adjustable shelf is used, then the adjustment is convenient, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through simple mechanical positioning features. The shelf automatically engages with positioning points on the liner ribs, eliminating the need for complex electrical motors, sensors, or control systems. Users can easily adjust the shelf themselves without requiring technical assistance or complex operational procedures.
4Ease of operation
If shelf is adjusted downward without proper control, then the shelf might slide down in free-fall manner, but this creates safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning structures on the liner ribs are designed to provide continuous support and engagement points for the shelf throughout its movement range. This preliminary cushioning mechanism prevents the shelf from sliding or free-falling by ensuring it remains supported at all times during adjustment, thereby maintaining safety without compromising operational ease.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a shelf assembly for a refrigerator and a refrigerator. The shelf assembly comprises: a shelf device for placing articles; a slide rail forming a slideway in a vertical direction, and having at least two positioning portions in a vertical direction; wherein the shelf assembly further comprises: a moving device for supporting the shelf device, the moving device comprising a bearing plate that is operably moved upward and downward relative to the slide rail, and a locking plate rotatably disposed relative to the bearing plate, a positioning member being disposed on the locking plate, the locking plate engaging with the shelf device; when the shelf device is operably lifted or released, a positioning member is disengaged from or engaged with one of the positioning portions, to adjust the height of the shelf device. The present invention makes the adjustment of the shelf device simple and convenient and makes the cost lower.