Drawer Self-Closing Mechanism With Release Stop for Auto-Open
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-closing and automated opening systems for furniture drawers are complex, require frequent maintenance, and have high costs, making them unreliable and difficult to integrate effectively, especially when trying to combine both functions without opposing forces.
Innovation Solution
A self-closing device that allows the slider to be released from the drawing element at the closed position, enabling smooth opening and controlled closing by balancing forces with a weaker first spring and a stronger second spring, along with a stop element and translation means like an ejector or magnets, allowing easy operation and maintenance-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a ratchet system is used for automated opening, then the drawer can be opened automatically, but the forces oppose the self-closing device preventing closing
Solution Approach 1:
A release element acts as an intermediary between the ratchet system and the self-closing device. This element is held in position by a stop during normal operation, allowing the self-closing device to function. When activated (e.g., by a magnet or manual action), the stop releases the drawing element, allowing the ratchet to pull the drawer open automatically without interfering with the self-closing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The drawing element is pre-positioned and held ready by the stop element before opening is needed. The ratchet system is pre-loaded with potential energy in the spring, ready to immediately open the drawer when the stop releases the drawing element, eliminating the need for complex real-time force balancing.
2Ease of operation
If electrical motors are used to compensate forces, then opening and closing can be achieved, but the device becomes complex and requires continuous maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses passive mechanical elements that require no external power or control. The stop element automatically holds the drawing element in position, and the ratchet spring automatically provides opening force when released. The self-closing spring automatically closes the drawer when the ratchet is not active, eliminating the need for motors, sensors, or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex electrical motor compensation system is completely removed and replaced with simple passive mechanical elements: a spring-loaded ratchet for opening, a spring-loaded slider for self-closing, and a stop element for coordination. This extraction of complexity maintains functionality while eliminating maintenance requirements.
3Productivity
If a self-closing device with spring is used, then the drawer closes automatically, but the closing force creates shock that requires decelerator
Solution Approach 1:
The closing action is segmented into two phases: first, the decelerator engages to absorb the majority of the closing shock from the spring force; second, the drawer completes its closing motion with reduced velocity. This segmentation of the closing process allows the spring to provide strong closing force while the decelerator protects the furniture from damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The decelerator is positioned to engage before the drawer completes its closing motion, providing cushioning in advance of the final impact. This pre-positioned cushioning element absorbs the shock energy from the self-closing spring, preventing damage to the furniture while maintaining the automatic closing function.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex systems are designed to combine opening and closing functions, then both functions can be achieved, but costs increase and effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The opening and closing functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism where the ratchet system with drawing element handles opening and the slider with spring handles closing. These two simple mechanisms work together through the stop element coordination, eliminating the need for separate motors or complex control systems for each function, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining versatility.
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 reliable, low-cost, and easy-to-install self-closing and opening of drawers with reduced complexity, ensuring continuous operation and aesthetic preservation of furniture, facilitating user-friendly operation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring (5) suitable for moving the slider (3) between a rear position and a front position
Implementation Method 2
The stop element (9) is yielding and comprises a second spring (16)
Implementation Method 3
an ejector (20) suitable for moving the drawer along a small extraction portion
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~9
Figure 10~15
AI summary
The self-closing device (1) for a drawer or for a moveable part of a piece of furniture comprises, associated to a fixed part (8) of the piece of furniture, a support body (2) for a slider (3) moveable within a guide (4) between a rear and a front position and vice versa in contrast and by the action of first elastic means, the slider (3) being actuated by a drawing element (6) integral with an extractable part (7) associated to the drawer or the like, the guide (4), at the zone corresponding to the rear position of the slider (3), comprising first means for moving the slider (3), suitable for engaging with first means for guiding the slider (3) during its engagement with drawing means present on the drawing element (6), there being further provided a stop element (9) against which the slider (3) lies directly or indirectly before engaging with the first guide means in the first movement means of the guide (4).