Concealed Multi-Rail Slide Structure for Stable Drawer Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concealed slide rail assemblies in furniture experience shaking or deviation due to uneven weight distribution and excessive wear on rolling elements when used in pairs, leading to instability and reduced durability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-rail concealed slide rail structure with an outer rail, first and second ball retainers, and an inner rail, featuring L-shaped, reverse U-shaped, and G-like configurations, respectively, to enhance support and stability by forming four parallel tracks that prevent excessive movement and wear, with rollers and balls providing comprehensive contact and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If concealed slide rail assemblies are arranged in pairs and mounted close to two sides of the drawer, then the drawer can be supported and moved, but the structure is liable to cause shaking or deviation and the rolling elements suffer excessive wear
Solution Approach 1:
The slide rail assembly is segmented into multiple independent tracks (first track, second track, third track, fourth track) arranged in parallel between the outer rail and middle rail. Each track contains rolling elements that independently support the drawer weight, distributing the load across multiple contact points rather than relying on two parallel assemblies. This segmentation prevents shaking and deviation by providing redundant support paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-track parallel assembly to a multi-dimensional track system with four parallel tracks arranged in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. The tracks are positioned at different heights and locations, creating a three-dimensional support structure that enhances stability and prevents deviation during drawer movement.
2Ease of operation
If conventional concealed slide rail assemblies are used with two parallel moving tracks, then the drawer can be mounted and moved, but the rolling elements suffer excessive wear and tear affecting use
Solution Approach 1:
The load-bearing function is segmented across four separate tracks instead of two, with each track containing its own rolling elements. This distribution of weight across multiple tracks reduces the wear on individual rolling elements, extending their service life while maintaining smooth drawer movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the structural parameters by introducing multiple parallel tracks at different positions and heights, increasing the number of rolling element contact points. This parameter change distributes the mechanical stress and wear across more elements, thereby extending the duration of action for each individual rolling element.
3Reliability
If two parallel tracks are provided between outer rail and middle rail, then the support effect is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tracks and rolling elements are merged into a single integrated slide rail assembly between the outer rail and middle rail. The four parallel tracks (first, second, third, fourth tracks) are combined within the same structural envelope, providing enhanced support stability without proportionally increasing the overall device footprint or complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-track structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides enhanced support stability, distributes weight evenly, reduces wear on individual rolling elements, and maintains a compact concealed design. The same structural framework supports all four tracks and their rolling elements, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate assemblies for each function.
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 multi-rail structure significantly improves stability and smooth operation by distributing weight evenly and reducing wear on components, ensuring the drawer can be pulled smoothly without shaking, while also enhancing protective coverage and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The interior of the slide rail assembly is provided with rolling components, such as slidable steel balls or steel rollers, for the drawer to be pulled with ease.
Implementation Method 2
The concealed slide rail assembly uses rollers as its main rolling components. The rollers provide a larger contact area between the rails when they are moved.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-rail concealed slide rail structure includes an outer rail, a first ball retainer, a middle rail, a pair of second ball retainers, and an inner rail. One side of the outer rail is bent inward to form a first track for the first ball retainer to slide thereon. Two side edges of the middle rail are bent in the same direction to form second tracks, respectively. The middle rail is fitted on the first ball retainer, such that the first ball retainer leans against one of the second tracks. The pair of second ball retainers is movably fitted on the middle rail. One side edge of the inner rail is bent inward to form a third track corresponding to the second tracks. The inner rail is fitted on the pair of second ball retainers. Two parallel tracks are provided between the inner rail and the middle rail.