Curved Pull-Out Shelf Mechanism for Single-Action Cabinet Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull-out shelves in modular kitchens are complex and expensive to operate, requiring multiple kinematic mechanisms for extraction and involving cumbersome manual operations, especially when hands are dirty or occupied.
Innovation Solution
A simple sliding mechanism using curved guides and a translating door that allows the shelf to rotate and exit the cabinet with a single manual operation, eliminating the need for separate door opening and shelf extraction steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex roto-translation mechanisms are used for shelf extraction, then complete shelf extraction from the cabinet is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction mechanism is segmented into two independent functional components: curved guides that define the roto-translation path and a lifting element that provides upward force. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in structure while collectively achieving the complex extraction motion, resolving the contradiction between operational capability and mechanism complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Curved guides with specific curvature profiles are used to define the extraction path. The curvature of the guides naturally guides the shelf through the required roto-translation motion, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages. The curved geometry converts linear pulling force into the desired combined rotational and translational movement, simplifying the mechanism while maintaining extraction effectiveness.
2Ease of operation
If traditional sequential operations (open door then pull shelf) are required, then complete access to shelf contents is achieved, but user effort and operation time increase when hands are dirty or occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The door opening function and shelf extraction function are merged into a single integrated operation. The lifting element is positioned to engage both the shelf and the door, so that a single upward pulling motion simultaneously extracts the shelf from the cabinet and opens the door. This merging eliminates the need for sequential operations, reducing both time and effort while maintaining complete access to shelf contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting element serves multiple functions: it acts as both the extraction mechanism for the shelf and the door opening mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single component to perform what traditionally required two separate mechanisms, simplifying the overall system and enabling simultaneous execution of extraction and door opening operations.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cabinet provided with one off-centred opening and one or more internal shelves (1) with arc-of-circumference profile, adapted to slide alternatively to go, through the off-centred opening, from a position in which they are contained inside the cabinet to a position in which they protrude on the front of the opening; the above being possible because of the cooperation of a pair of concentric guides (4a, 4b) with arc-of-circumference profile mounted under each shelf, with a corresponding pair of counterguides (5a, 5b) horizontally mounted inside the cabinet.