Drawer Panel Attachment Device with Axis-Displacement Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening devices for drawer panels lack structural simplicity while ensuring functional reliability and effective locking mechanisms, particularly under heavy stress or shaking movements.

Innovation Solution

The fastening device employs a catch element with a pivotably mounted shaft section, where the axis of rotation is shifted by a guide cam and connecting link, achieving a secure locking position that aligns perpendicularly to the holding element's movement, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms by positioning the axis of rotation to minimize torque exertion during drawer opening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a simple retaining spring is used for fastening the drawer panel, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of the fastening mechanism deteriorates under heavy stress or shaking movements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening device structureVSAvoidfastening reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The catch element is designed to dynamically shift its axis of rotation from a first position to a second position during the locking process. This dynamic repositioning allows the catch element to transition from an engaged state with the retaining element to a locked state where the axis displacement prevents disengagement, thereby improving reliability without adding complex components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the positional parameter of the catch element's axis of rotation during operation. By displacing the axis from the first position to the second position, the geometric relationship between the catch element and retaining element changes, creating a locked state that resists shaking and heavy stress while maintaining structural simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the axis of rotation is displaced to achieve a secure locking position, then the reliability of the locking mechanism is improved, but the device complexity increases due to guide cams and connecting links

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism reliabilityVSAvoidfastening device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The guide cam is integrated directly into the connecting link structure, merging two components into one. This integration reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining the functionality of both the connecting link (which transmits motion) and the guide cam (which guides the axis displacement), thereby improving locking reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting link serves multiple functions: it connects the catch element to the frame, guides the displacement of the axis of rotation, and incorporates the guide cam functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, achieving reliable locking with a structurally simple design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the axis of rotation is positioned to minimize torque during drawer opening, then the reliability of the locking mechanism is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as additional mechanical control devices are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism reliabilityVSAvoiddrawer operation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical control device with teeth is integrated into the catch element itself, which performs the dual function of locking and controlling the axis displacement. The teeth on the catch element engage with corresponding teeth on the guide cam, creating a self-contained control mechanism that prevents unintended release while allowing controlled operation, thereby improving reliability without significantly compromising ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 configuration provides a structurally simple and reliable locking mechanism that prevents unintentional release, ensuring the drawer panel remains securely fastened even under stress, as the displacement of the axis of rotation defines a precise catch position, supported by mechanical control devices like teeth, and the spring device acts without bending moments.

Implementation Method 1

The displacement of the axis of rotation is defined by a guide cam and a backdrop

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 2

the spring device acts without bending moments

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3709839B1Attachment device for a panel of a drawer
Publication Date: 2022.09.07 PAUL HETTICH GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3709839B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3709839B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3709839B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An attachment device (100) for attaching a panel (2) of a drawer (1) to a drawer wall (4a, 4b), wherein the attachment device (100) has a holding element (101) that can be arranged on the panel side, and a catch device that can be arranged on the drawer wall side and has a catch element (116) that is pivotally mounted on a base element, wherein the catch element has an axis of rotation and a force accumulator can apply force to the catch element, said catch element being moveable back and forth between a release position and a catch position, wherein the catch element (116) is designed, in the catch position, to hold the holding element (101) on the drawer wall. The device is characterised in that the catch element is locked in the catch position by means of a local displacement of the axis of rotation of the catch element (116).