Panel for a drawer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drawer frames are difficult to mount functional devices securely and efficiently, as existing solutions require complex assembly processes and lack a straightforward method for attaching mounting bases.

Innovation Solution

A frame design featuring an outer and inner shell with mounting adapters that securely hold a mounting base, allowing for easy assembly by inserting a projection into a mounting opening, and optionally using these adapters as part of a sliding guide or in receiving channels for multiple uses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a mounting base is to be securely mounted on the frame, then the mounting connection must be stable and reliable, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting adapter is divided into distinct functional elements: a body portion that attaches to the frame, and a projection that engages with the mounting base. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while simplifying the overall assembly process through modular construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting adapter serves as an intermediary component between the frame and the mounting base. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process while ensuring reliable mounting, eliminating the need for complex direct attachment methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple mounting positions are provided on the frame, then the adaptability for different functional devices is improved, but the structural complexity of the frame increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting position flexibilityVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting adapters are designed as universal components that can be distributed at multiple positions on the frame. Each adapter provides the same standardized mounting interface, allowing different functional devices to be mounted at various locations without requiring different attachment mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity while providing versatility.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting adapters are pre-installed on the frame during frame assembly, before the functional devices are mounted. This preliminary placement of mounting points allows for easy and flexible device installation later without requiring modifications to the frame structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If the mounting base is to be easily assembled on the frame, then the assembly process is simplified, but the mounting stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidmounting stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The projection on the mounting adapter automatically engages with the mounting base through a snap-fit or latching mechanism, providing self-aligning and self-securing functionality. This self-service mechanism ensures easy assembly without requiring additional fastening operations while maintaining secure mounting through the inherent mechanical interlock.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3745920B1Panel for a drawer
Publication Date: 2023.03.22 PAUL HETTICH GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3745920B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3745920B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP3745920B1 patent drawingFigure 2c

AI summary

The invention relates to a panel (1) for a drawer, having an outer shell (11) and an inner shell (10) that delimit a cavity into which at least one mounting base (26) is inserted. The mounting base is held on the outer shell (11) or the inner shell (10) by at least one mounting adapter (22), wherein the mounting adapter (22) has at least one mounting opening (25) into which at least one protrusion, in particular a web (27), of the mounting base (26) engages.