Coupled Drawer Rail Mechanism for Mid-Open Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing article storage devices, such as those in refrigerators and furniture, face challenges in providing improved handling and access to pusher elements, as they often require large distances for pull-out, leading to space constraints and inefficient access due to cumulative tolerances and angular alignments of pull-out guides.
Innovation Solution
A device with a coupling mechanism that allows the second sliding element to move independently between 30% to 70% of the maximum open position, enabling better access by decoupling from the first sliding element, using a latching device and driver for force transmission, and a cable pull mechanism for synchronized movement, allowing both elements to be partially accessible from above.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the first sliding element is moved out over a large distance to access the lower element, then access to the lower sliding element is improved, but the space required and cumulative tolerances increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into discrete components: a coupling element on the first sliding element, a latching receptacle on the second sliding element, and a latching element that engages between them. This segmentation allows the coupling function to be distributed and controlled independently, enabling the second sliding element to be positioned without requiring the first to be fully extended
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the two sliding elements, providing a controlled connection that transmits only the necessary movement forces. The latching element serves as a mediator that engages the coupling element, allowing the second sliding element to be moved to a middle open position without being constrained by the full travel distance of the first sliding element
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple pull-out guides are connected in series to increase lateral movement, then tolerance compensation is improved, but the actuating forces and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism extracts the essential function of connecting the two sliding elements while removing the unnecessary complexity of series-connected pull-out guides. By taking out only the critical coupling and positioning functions, the system achieves tolerance compensation without requiring multiple guides connected in series, thereby reducing actuating forces
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism provides dynamic control over the connection between sliding elements. The latching element can engage and disengage the coupling element, allowing the system to adapt its connectivity based on operational needs. This dynamic approach enables tolerance management while maintaining lower actuating forces compared to rigid series connections
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for storing objects, comprising a first drawer element (2), which is mounted in a movable manner between a closed position and a maximum open position via at least one first pullout guide (6), said first pullout guide having a stationary guide rail (9) and a running rail (7) which can be moved relative to the guide rail (9) and on which the first drawer element (2) is supported, and a second drawer element (4), which is mounted in a movable manner between a closed position and a maximum open position via at least one second pullout guide (16), said second pullout guide having a stationary guide rail (17) and a running rail (19) which can be moved relative to the guide rail (17) and on which the second drawer element (4) is supported, wherein the running rail (7) of the first pullout guide (6) can be moved independently of the running rail (19) of the second pullout guide (16). The invention is characterized by a coupling mechanism (20), by means of which the second drawer element (4) can be moved into a medium open position between the closed position and the maximum open position during a movement of the first drawer element (2) from the closed position into the maximum open position, and the coupling mechanism (20) can be released in order to allow the second drawer element (4) to be moved into the maximum open position or the closed position independently of the first drawer element (2). The invention additionally relates to a method for opening and closing a device for storing objects.