Drawer Front Panel Fastening with Intersecting Cam Self-Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for drawer front panels require large assembly spaces and are not self-locking, leading to positioning errors and instability in the attachment process.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a transmission element articulated via a rotary/sliding connection, utilizing intersecting cam curves to optimize power transmission and minimize space requirements, allowing for precise positioning and self-locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-loaded rocker arm with dead center alignment is used, then the locking mechanism can be implemented, but the device requires large assembly space and considerable mounting area
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a carrier with mounting area, a rotatable lock with retaining section, and a spring mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing the overall mounting area while maintaining locking reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The lock rotates about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the spring force direction, utilizing a different spatial dimension for the locking action. This dimensional change eliminates the need for dead center alignment and reduces the mounting area footprint
2Reliability
If additional locking elements are provided to prevent unintentional opening, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded lock mechanism provides self-locking capability through its inherent spring force that maintains engagement pressure. The retaining section automatically maintains contact with the retaining area, preventing unintentional opening without requiring additional active locking elements
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-unintentional opening function is merged into the primary locking mechanism through the spring force design. The same spring that provides the locking action also maintains sufficient engagement pressure to prevent accidental release, combining multiple functions into a single mechanism
3Volume of moving object
If the rocker arm is adjusted within the travel of the retaining element, then the design becomes more compact, but the retaining element must be precisely aligned with the support element
Solution Approach 1:
The spring force parameter is optimized to provide sufficient engagement pressure that compensates for minor alignment variations. By adjusting the spring characteristics, the system tolerates larger alignment tolerances while maintaining reliable locking, reducing manufacturing precision requirements
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 precise and secure attachment of the front panel to the drawer frame with a compact design, ensuring accurate alignment and stability without the need for extensive assembly space, and allows for easy adjustment and release.
Implementation Method 1
wherein a spring is operatively connected to the lock
Implementation Method 2
The lock (50) is designed to release a retaining area (13) of the retaining element (2) in an open rotational position of the lock and to block the retaining area in a closed position of the lock
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an attachment device for attaching a front panel of a drawer to a drawer frame, having a retaining element that can be attached to the front panel and a closure element that can be attached to the drawer frame. A spring is operatively connected to the closure. The closure is designed to expose a retaining region of the retaining element in an opened rotational position and to block the retaining region in a closed position. According to the invention, a transmission element is in an articulated connection by means of a rotary/sliding connection on the closure side and spaced part from the rotational axis of the closure; a rotary/sliding connection is arranged on the opener side with a bearing element on the transmission element opposite the rotary/sliding connection on the closure side; the rotary/sliding connection on the opener side has a first and a second control cam in which the bearing element is guided; and the two control cams cross each other. The attachment element according to the invention is characterised by a compact design.