Securing device for securing a panel of a drawer to a frame

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening devices for drawer panels are either complex, require a stable metallic side frame, or involve multiple components, making them difficult to install and remove within narrow hollow chamber frames.

Innovation Solution

A fastening device with a panel support and adapter featuring spring-loaded wedge slides that can be easily locked and unlocked using a single unlocking device, allowing for secure positioning and simple installation within narrow frames.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a multi-part panel support with wedges is used to secure the panel, then the panel can be firmly fixed to the frame, but the device structure becomes complex and requires a stable metallic side frame with large wall thickness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefirm fixation of panelVSAvoidcomplexity of fastening device
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening device is divided into separate functional components: an adapter with catching devices that attaches to the frame, and a panel support with connecting elements that attaches to the panel. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall structure compared to a monolithic multi-part wedge system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting elements of the panel support are received within the catching devices of the adapter, creating a nested arrangement where the panel support fits into the adapter structure. This nesting eliminates the need for separate wedge components and reduces structural complexity while maintaining secure fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If a rotatable catch hook system with transmission guide rod is used, then the panel can be secured and released, but the device structure becomes complex and difficult to install within narrow hollow chamber frames

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel attachment and detachmentVSAvoidcomplexity of fastening device
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex transmission guide rod mechanism is completely removed from the design. Instead, the catching devices use a simple spring-loaded wedge slide mechanism that can be actuated directly, extracting the unnecessary intermediate transmission components while preserving the attachment and detachment functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The catching devices utilize spring-loaded wedge slides that can change their engagement state through simple linear displacement rather than rotational movement. This parameter change from rotational to linear actuation simplifies the mechanism and enables installation in narrow hollow chamber frames where rotational space is limited.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If spring-loaded wedge slides are used in catching devices, then the panel support can be securely positioned and easily removed, but the frame must accommodate the additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation and removal simplicityVSAvoidspace required in frame
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded wedge slides are integrated directly into the catching devices of the adapter, which is itself attached to the frame. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate additional components and minimizes the space required in the frame structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter serves multiple functions: it attaches to the frame, houses the catching devices with wedge slides, and provides the structural interface for panel support attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components and minimizes overall space requirements.

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

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

The solution provides a compact, easy-to-install fastening system that securely attaches and detaches drawer panels from frames with minimal components, ensuring secure positioning and easy operation.

Implementation Method 1

the at least one second wedge slide being supported directly or indirectly by spring loading in the release position on the first wedge slide

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring loading: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3860402B1Securing device for securing a panel of a drawer to a frame
Publication Date: 2022.08.17 PAUL HETTICH GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3860402B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3860402B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3860402B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a securing device (10) for securing a panel (2) of a drawer (1) to a frame (4), having at least one panel support (7) which is arranged on the panel (2), at least one adapter (6) which is arranged in the frame (4) and to which the panel support (7) can be secured, said adapter (6) having at least two catching devices with a respective first and at least one second wedge-type slider (63, 64), by means of which a respective connection element (72) arranged on the panel support (7) can be fixed on the adapter (6) in an assembly position, and an unlocking device (66) for the catching devices, said unlocking device being used to allow a movement of the wedge-type sliders (63, 64) between a fixing position and a release position, wherein the wedge-type sliders (63, 64) are movably held on the adapter (6) in a linear direction, in particular substantially vertically to the release direction (L) of the panel, and the at least one second wedge-type slider is supported directly or indirectly against the first wedge-type slider in a spring-loaded manner in the release position. The invention additionally relates to methods for securing and releasing a panel to or from a frame (4).