Device for fixing a drawer-type element and piece of furniture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for fixing drawer-type elements on rails with clamping mechanisms are not compactly constructed and do not provide sufficient retaining forces during continuous adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A device with movable clamping bodies that press against an oblong retaining part and a supporting wall inclined relative to the insertion direction, allowing for secure fixation against withdrawal while permitting insertion, and includes a disengagement element for easy release, with optional spring pre-tensioning for enhanced security and adjustability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a pivotable clamping lever is used to provide high clamping forces, then the clamping force is improved, but the installation space required increases and the axis of rotation is subjected to high loads
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is divided into multiple clamping bodies (at least two) that distribute the clamping force across different contact points. Each clamping body is supported by its own support wall, segmenting the load path and eliminating the need for a single high-load rotation axis while maintaining high overall clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
The support walls are arranged at angles (1°-20°, particularly 2°-8°) relative to the insertion direction, introducing angular geometry to convert linear insertion motion into radial clamping force. This dimensional transformation allows compact construction without sacrificing clamping effectiveness.
2Force
If a pivotable clamping lever is used to provide high clamping forces, then the clamping force is improved, but the complexity of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is segmented into simple, identical clamping bodies and support walls rather than a complex single lever system. Each component has a simple function (clamping or supporting), reducing individual part complexity while achieving high force through their collective arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a lever that rotates to generate clamping force, the invention inverts the approach by using inclined support walls that passively convert the insertion motion itself into clamping force. The clamping action is generated by the geometry of the support walls rather than by an active rotating lever.
3Force
If friction forces are increased to secure the retaining part, then the retaining force is improved, but the difficulty of disengagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping bodies are made movable rather than fixed, allowing their clamping force to be dynamically adjusted. During normal operation, friction provides high retaining force. During disengagement, the clamping bodies can be moved to reduce friction and allow easy removal, thus dynamically adapting to different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction that normally resists disengagement is converted into a beneficial feature: the same frictional contact that provides retaining force during use becomes the mechanism for controlled disengagement when the clamping bodies are moved. The friction is not eliminated but rather harnessed in both operational states.
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, high-force retention mechanism that securely fixes the retaining part in any position, allowing for easy disengagement and adjustable installation, thus addressing the need for a compact and effective clamping system.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping body is self-inhibiting in the traction direction opposite to the insertion direction due to the support wall aligned inclined in relation to the insertion direction and increases the friction forces on the retaining part in the event of traction forces.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for fixing a drawer-type element on a rail of a pullout guide has a clamping mechanism, which has a housing having a receptacle into which an oblong retaining part is insertable to fix it on the housing.