Cupboard Synchronization Rod Assembly for Adjustable Flap Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cupboard synchronization systems face challenges in versatility and ease of installation, particularly when dealing with heavy or large flaps, as they require precise alignment and adjustment of synchronization rods during assembly, which can be cumbersome and inflexible for varying furniture widths.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization rod system with a securing device that allows for detachable and adjustable connection to pivotable parts, enabling easy installation and adjustment, including screw connections, mechanical latch connections, and telescopic parts to accommodate different furniture widths, ensuring synchronized movement of flap positioning devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a synchronization rod is used to link positioning devices on opposite sidewalls, then synchronous movement of flaps is achieved, but installation becomes complex and time-consuming due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization rod is divided into multiple segments or sections that can be assembled in a step-by-step manner. This segmentation allows installers to work with smaller, more manageable components that require less precise alignment during installation, while still achieving the overall synchronous movement function when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary connection elements or mounting brackets that serve as mediators between the synchronization rod and the positioning devices. These intermediaries absorb alignment tolerances and simplify the connection process, reducing the time required for precise alignment while maintaining reliable synchronous movement.
2Device complexity
If a fixed-length synchronization rod is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying furniture widths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization rod is designed with adjustable length capabilities, allowing it to adapt to different furniture widths. This dynamic adjustment feature enables the same rod design to be used across multiple product variants without requiring completely different rod lengths, thus maintaining structural simplicity while improving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal synchronization rod design that can serve multiple functions and accommodate various furniture widths through adjustment mechanisms. This multi-functional design allows a single rod type to be used across different product lines, reducing the need for multiple specialized rod designs.
3Ease of operation
If positioning devices are fitted first and synchronization rod is then attached, then installation flexibility improves, but additional assembly steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary installation of positioning devices without the synchronization rod, allowing installers to complete mounting tasks that don't require rod attachment. The synchronization rod is then added as a separate preliminary action before final assembly, enabling parallel work streams and improving overall installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the positioning device installation from the synchronization rod attachment, the assembly process is segmented into distinct phases. This segmentation allows different teams to work simultaneously on different components and enables easier adjustment of individual components before final integration.
4Strength
If traditional synchronization systems are used for heavy flaps, then adequate support is provided, but packaging volume increases due to pre-assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization system components are segmented into separately packable units that can be shipped independently. This segmentation reduces packaging volume by eliminating the need for pre-assembled configurations and allows for more efficient space utilization in shipping containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates the need for pre-assembly of synchronization components, allowing them to be shipped in a disassembled state and assembled on-site. This approach discards the conventional practice of pre-assembly for shipping, reducing packaging requirements while maintaining the strength and support capabilities needed for heavy flaps.
Data Source
AI summary
A cupboard-shaped piece of furniture (1) includes side walls (2), on each of which a control mechanism (4) for the displacement of a door leaf (7) is arranged, whereby the control mechanisms (4) are connected by means of a synchronisation rod (10) for the synchronised movement thereof. The synchronisation road (10) includes a fixing device (12) on at least one end region for the detachable connection of the synchronisation rod (10) to a rotating piece (17) of the control mechanism (4), the fixing device (12) being embodied such that the synchronisation rod (10) may also be connected to the rotating piece (17) when the rotating piece (17) is already pre-assembled on a side wall (2) of the piece of furniture (1).