Device for cleaning, storing or cooking objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic and commercial appliances, such as ovens and refrigerators, face issues with the rail systems unintentionally extending when the support arrangements are removed for cleaning, posing a risk of injury or obstruction due to the lack of reliable locking mechanisms that can maintain the blocking position against gravity changes.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a locking unit with a rotatable setting element that can transition between a rest and supporting position, using gravity to maintain the locking element in a blocking position, even when the support arrangement is reversed, thereby preventing unintentional extension of the rail system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple locking element is used to block the rail system, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of the locking mechanism deteriorates when the support arrangement is reversed
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is made rotatable about an axis of rotation, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position based on the orientation of the support arrangement. When the support arrangement is reversed, the locking element automatically rotates to maintain the blocking position, ensuring reliability without requiring a complex fixed-position locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes changes in gravitational force direction as the support arrangement is reversed. The locking element's position parameter changes automatically in response to the changed orientation, maintaining the blocking function through passive gravitational action rather than active control.
2Device complexity
If the locking element is held in blocking position by gravity alone, then the device complexity is minimized, but the reliability deteriorates when the support arrangement is removed for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is mounted rotatably on the rail system, allowing it to respond dynamically to changes in orientation and gravitational force. This dynamic mounting enables the locking element to maintain the blocking position reliably whether the support arrangement is in its normal position or reversed during cleaning, without requiring additional active locking components.
3Ease of operation
If the rail system allows free extension for easy operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety deteriorates due to unintentional extension during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element provides a dynamic blocking function that adapts to the operational state. During normal use, the locking element allows the rail system to extend freely for easy access. During removal or cleaning when the support arrangement is reversed, the locking element automatically engages to prevent unintentional extension, eliminating the safety hazard without restricting normal operation.
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
This design ensures the rail system remains blocked against unintentional extension both in its original and reversed orientations, enhancing user safety and preventing accidents during cleaning or removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
the setting element is suitable for holding the locking element in the blocking position thereof against the action of the force of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for cleaning, storing or cooking items includes a housing formed by walls enclosing an internal space; at least one support arrangement removable from the housing; and at least one locking unit arranged at the support arrangement. The support arrangement includes at least one rail system having at least two rails connected together and moveable relative to each other and at least one support element. The locking unit includes at least one locking element which can be transferred between a blocking position and a free position, wherein, when the support arrangement is mounted to the housing, the locking unit is in its free state in which the locking element enables extension of the rail system. When the support arrangement is separated from the housing, the locking unit is in its blocking state in which the locking element blocks extension of the rail system with the formation of a positively locking relationship.