Drawer Closing Block Mechanism for Wavy-Motion Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drawer closing systems fail to prevent accidental opening during wavy motions in watercrafts and other means of transport, leading to potential damage or loss of contents.
Innovation Solution
A closing device comprising a superior plate and an inferior plate, connected in a rotatable manner, where the inferior plate intercepts and rotates the superior plate's appendix during closing, creating a block that prevents accidental opening by gravity, and allows easy opening by lifting the inferior plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnet is used to hold the drawer closed, then the drawer can be kept closed during normal use, but the magnet cannot prevent accidental opening during very wavy motion
Solution Approach 1:
The closing system uses a dynamic block mechanism that rotates between a lowered position (during closing) and a lifted position (during blocking). The block is connected to the drawer body through a rotatable connection, allowing it to change position dynamically based on the drawer's motion state, providing enhanced reliability during wavy motion while maintaining ease of operation during normal use
Solution Approach 2:
The block is positioned to intercept the drawer's opening motion before accidental opening can occur during wavy motion. By placing the block in the lowered position prior to potential accidental opening, the system prevents the harmful effect (accidental opening) from occurring in the first place
2Reliability
If more potent magnets are selected to overcome wavy motion, then accidental opening is prevented, but opening the drawer by the user becomes difficult under normal use conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The block mechanism dynamically changes its blocking force based on the drawer's motion state. During normal opening operation, the block rotates to the lifted position, reducing the force required by the user. During accidental opening caused by wavy motion, the block remains in the lowered position, providing strong resistance. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The block mechanism automatically responds to the drawer's motion state without requiring user intervention. When the drawer is pulled open during normal use, the block self-rotates to the lifted position, facilitating easy opening. When subjected to wavy motion, the block self-maintains the lowered position to prevent accidental opening, making the system self-adjusting based on operating conditions
3Ease of operation
If sliding guides with inclined terminal parts are used, then the drawer automatically closes by gravity, but the system cannot guarantee safe closing in case of wavy motion
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the automatic closing function with a dynamic blocking mechanism. The block rotates to the lifted position during closing motion, allowing gravity to assist closure. Once closed, the block rotates to the lowered position, providing reliable blocking against wavy motion. This dynamic transition resolves the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The block mechanism is positioned and configured to automatically rotate to the blocking position once the drawer reaches the closed position. This preliminary action ensures that the blocking function is activated in advance before wavy motion can cause accidental opening, enhancing reliability while maintaining the automatic closing benefit
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
Effectively prevents drawer opening during wavy motions while allowing simple and quick operation, suitable for various transport means and existing drawers with minimal modification.
Implementation Method 1
the appendix (4) is initially rotated by gravity in its lowered position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention concerns a closing device (1) for a drawer comprising a superior plate (3) provided with a block appendix (4) rotatable between a lifted position and a lowered position. It is also included an inferior plate (2) comprising a block element (21) connected to the drawer. In the closing direction of the drawer, the inferior plate (2) intercepts the block appendix (4) against the block element (21). In this manner, the inferior plate (2) is impeded to translate in the opposite direction. When the inferior plate (2) is lifted against the superior plate (3), the inferior plate (2) contacts the appendix (4), causing a rotation of it from the lowered position to the lifted position, thus allowing the sliding in the opposite direction of the inferior plate (2).1.