Refrigerator Drawer Storage Box Rollers for Quiet, Stable Withdrawal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators face challenges in smoothly inserting and withdrawing the second storage box due to its limited utility and short withdrawal distance, leading to inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a roller device and a rail device within the refrigerator, where the second storage box rolls on the first storage box, utilizing roller members and supporting parts to facilitate smooth motion, and the rail device minimizes noise and prevents separation during the insertion and withdrawal of the first storage box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the second storage box is mounted at an upper part of the first storage box, then the storage capacity is improved, but the withdrawal distance is shortened and operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by installing roller members (first and second roller members) at the corners of the second storage box and corresponding roller supporting parts on the first storage box. This allows the second storage box to roll smoothly during insertion and withdrawal, converting linear sliding friction into rolling friction, thereby enabling easy operation despite the elevated position that limits withdrawal distance
2Volume of moving object
If the second storage box is mounted at an upper part of the first storage box, then the storage capacity is improved, but the withdrawal distance is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The roller members enable the second storage box to roll during insertion and withdrawal operations. This rolling mechanism allows the storage box to achieve sufficient movement distance even when mounted at an upper position with limited space, effectively resolving the contradiction between increased storage capacity and reduced withdrawal distance
3Ease of operation
If a roller device is installed to enable rolling motion, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller device is segmented into multiple independent roller members (first roller members at front corners, second roller member at rear center) and corresponding roller supporting parts. This segmentation allows each roller to independently handle specific portions of the load and motion, simplifying the overall structure while achieving smooth rolling operation
Solution Approach 2:
The roller members serve multiple functions: they support the weight of the second storage box, enable rolling motion during insertion and withdrawal, and guide the movement path. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
4Ease of operation
If the first storage box is made movable like a drawer, then the ease of operation is improved, but noise is generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies rolling motion through roller members and roller supporting parts to replace traditional sliding mechanisms. This conversion from sliding to rolling friction significantly reduces operational noise while maintaining the ease of drawer-like operation for the first storage box
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
Enables smooth and efficient insertion and withdrawal of both storage boxes, reducing operational noise and enhancing usability by distributing the load and preventing lateral movement, thus improving the overall convenience and functionality of the refrigerator.
Implementation Method 1
a first roller member mounted to the second storage box; a first roller supporting part formed at the first storage box to support a rolling motion of the first roller member thereon
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a main body having a storage chamber; a drawer type door; a first storage unit movable in association with closing and opening operations of the drawer type door, each of side walls of the first storage unit having a first roller supporting surface; a second storage unit having first roller members mounted to a front region of the second storage unit, the first roller members being seated on the first roller supporting surfaces of the first storage unit to enable rolling movement thereof, a protrusion extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the second storage unit, and second roller members provided on both sides of the second storage unit to move along guide surfaces provided on an interior of the storage chamber. The protrusion is configured to prevent the first roller members from laterally leaving the first roller supporting surfaces.