Drawer Pull-Out Rail Layout for Load-Shifting Roller Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull-out runner systems for drawers face issues with deformation of plastic rollers under high loads, leading to impaired running behavior due to uneven loading and potential tilting, as the foremost rollers are subjected to significant stress.
Innovation Solution
The system redistributes load by using a smaller diameter first rolling element that supports the drawer when closed and is relieved when open, with an elevation on the drawer rail ensuring vertical loading only on this element, while larger rolling elements handle the drawer's movement when open, preventing deformation and maintaining smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If plastic rollers are used as rolling elements to enable smooth operation, then the drawer can run smoothly, but the rollers become deformed under high loads when the drawer is closed
Solution Approach 1:
The carriage is divided into two distinct types of rolling elements: first rolling elements with smaller diameter for closed position support, and second rolling elements with larger diameter for open position rolling. This segmentation allows each type to be optimized for its specific function, preventing deformation while maintaining smooth operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different rolling elements are assigned different diameters based on their local functional requirements. The first rolling elements have smaller diameter specifically for bearing vertical loads in closed position, while second rolling elements have larger diameter for smooth rolling in open position. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between load-bearing capacity and rolling smoothness.
2Force
If the foremost rolling elements are designed to support the drawer in closed position, then vertical load is borne, but the rolling elements are subjected to considerable mechanical stresses causing deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling elements are segmented into two categories with different design characteristics. First rolling elements are specifically designed with smaller diameter for vertical load support in closed position, while second rolling elements are designed with larger diameter for rolling function. This segmentation allows the first rolling elements to bear loads without deforming, as they are not required to perform rolling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different rolling elements based on drawer position. In closed position, first rolling elements bear the load; in open position, second rolling elements perform rolling. This dynamic allocation of functions prevents any single rolling element from being subjected to both high load and rolling stresses simultaneously.
3Force
If multiple rolling elements are used to support the drawer, then load distribution is improved, but all rolling elements are loaded simultaneously causing potential tilting and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The loading configuration is made dynamic based on drawer position. In closed position, only first rolling elements are loaded while second rolling elements are released. In open position, the load transfers to second rolling elements. This dynamic loading pattern prevents simultaneous loading of all rolling elements, eliminating the risk of tilting and instability while maintaining proper load distribution.
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 reduces deformation of rolling elements, enhances running stability, and prevents tilting by ensuring the foremost rolling element is only loaded vertically when the drawer is closed, while larger elements handle the load when open, maintaining smooth operation and preventing jerky movements.
Implementation Method 1
a first and at least one second rolling element... allow the drawer or a shelf to run smoothly
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
Pull-out guide system (1) for drawers, having a basic-structure rail (2), a drawer rail (3) and, if appropriate, having a centre rail arranged between these two rails (2, 3), wherein the load of the drawer is transmitted by way of a first rolling-contact body (4) and at least one second rolling-contact body (5a), wherein the first rolling-contact body (4) has a smaller diameter than the at least one second rolling-contact body (5a), and wherein the drawer rail (3) is designed such that, when the drawer is in the closed state, the first rolling-contact body (4) is subjected to loading by the drawer rail (3) and, when the drawer is opened, the first rolling-contact body is relieved of the loading of the drawer rail (3).