Drawer assembly with integral latch mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drawer assemblies with separate latch mechanisms are costly due to multiple components, increasing manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance expenses, and are less reliable over time.
Innovation Solution
The drawer assembly integrates the latch mechanism into the drawer and bezel, with both formed from a single piece of material, such as plastic or composite, featuring an arcuate cam surface and elongated spring for secure closure and easy opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate latch mechanism is used, then the drawer assembly can achieve reliable latching function, but the number of components increases leading to higher manufacturing and assembly costs
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged with the drawer body to form an integral unit. The latch is formed as a protrusion directly from the drawer material, eliminating the need for separate latch components while maintaining the latching function through the integrated structure's engagement with the bezel.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawer body serves multiple functions: it contains the latch mechanism, provides structural support, and enables latching through the integrated latch protrusion. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count while maintaining reliable latching operation.
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for latch mechanism, then the latching function can be achieved, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is combined with the drawer body in a single manufacturing process. The integral latch protrusion is formed directly from the drawer material through molding or forming operations, eliminating the need for separate manufacturing of latch components and subsequent assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is segmented into the drawer body integration, where the latch protrusion is a distinct feature of the drawer structure itself rather than a separate component. This segmentation approach allows for simplified manufacturing while maintaining functional integrity.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for latch mechanism, then the latching function can be achieved, but assembly and servicing processes become more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged with the drawer body, eliminating separate assembly steps for installing latch components. The integral latch protrusion requires no separate assembly operations, simplifying the overall assembly process and reducing labor costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawer assembly's latch mechanism is self-contained within the drawer body structure. The integral latch protrusion automatically engages with the bezel during drawer insertion, eliminating the need for separate adjustment or assembly operations by service personnel.
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
This integration reduces production and assembly costs, enhances reliability, and simplifies maintenance by eliminating separate latch components, while maintaining dependable performance over a long service life.
Implementation Method 1
the spring curves upwardly at an intermediate point between the proximal end and the distal end. Thus, the arcuate cam surface of the latch engages the integral spring between the proximal end and the intermediate point when the drawer is in the closed position. As a result, a portion of the integral spring extending downward from the proximal end exerts a downward force on the latch of the drawer holding the drawer in the closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A drawer assembly is provided. That drawer assembly includes a drawer incorporating an integral latch and a bezel incorporating an integral spring. Thus, the drawer assembly includes an integral latch mechanism to hold the drawer in a closed position.