Cable-Based Drawer Front Panel Fastening to Reduce Linkage Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for releasably fixing a front panel to a drawer require complex linkage assemblies, leading to increased component count, large installation space, and high actuation forces due to linkage deflections and the need for separate assemblies for varying panel heights.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device using a cable to connect locking devices, allowing for component- and space-saving design, force transmission via pulling force, and adjustable cable length for varying panel heights, with pivot levers, deflection devices, force storage members, and bearing devices for optimal force transmission and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a linkage assembly is used to couple locking devices, then the locking devices can be simultaneously locked or unlocked, but the component count increases and installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical linkage assembly with a cable-based connection system. The cable transmits force between locking devices through pulling force, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages with multiple components and deflections, while still achieving simultaneous locking and unlocking of multiple locking devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible cable to connect locking devices instead of rigid mechanical linkages. The cable can be optimally guided within the fastening device using deflection devices, providing a space-saving and component-reduced solution that maintains force transmission between locking devices
2Reliability
If a linkage assembly is used to couple locking devices, then the locking devices can be simultaneously locked or unlocked, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the space-consuming mechanical linkage assembly with a compact cable-based system. The cable requires minimal space for routing and can be guided through deflection devices, significantly reducing the installation space needed while maintaining the functionality of simultaneous locking
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cable occupies minimal space compared to rigid mechanical linkages. The cable can be routed through the fastening device in a space-efficient manner, allowing the overall device dimensions to be reduced while still achieving coupled locking device operation
3Force
If a linkage assembly is used to couple locking devices, then force transmission is provided, but a relatively large actuating force is required due to engagement location adjacent to pivot point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the linkage assembly's force transmission mechanism with a cable-based pulling force system. By optimizing the cable engagement location on the pivot lever, the system achieves effective force transmission with reduced actuating force requirements, as the cable can be positioned to maximize mechanical advantage without the constraints of adjacent pivot point engagement
4Reliability
If separate linkage assemblies are provided for each constructional height, then the locking devices are properly coupled, but the adaptability decreases and component count increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal cable-based connection system that can accommodate multiple constructional heights of front panels. By adjusting the cable length and routing, the same basic fastening device design can be adapted to different panel heights, eliminating the need for separate linkage assemblies for each height variant
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables adaptation to different panel heights by changing the cable length parameter and routing configuration. This allows a single fastening device design to be versatile across multiple applications, maintaining reliable locking device coupling while reducing component variety and inventory requirements
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
The cable-based design reduces the need for complex linkage assemblies, lowers actuation forces, and allows for easy adaptation to different panel heights, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking with reduced component count and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission of force between the at least two locking devices can be provided by applying a pulling force
Implementation Method 2
at least one force storage member is provided, the at least one force storage member pressurizing a first of the at least two locking devices with a force for holding the first locking device in a locking position
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening device for releasably fixing a front panel to a drawer, in particular to a drawer sidewall, includes at least two connecting elements configured to be mounted to the front panel and at least two locking devices associated to the drawer for, preferably releasably, locking the two connecting elements. At least one cable is provided to connect the at least two locking devices to one another.