Retracting device for a drawer mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retraction devices for drawer mechanisms are complex and costly, with high production costs due to numerous components, and lack mechanical robustness, especially when preventing simultaneous extraction of multiple drawers to avoid tilting and user injury.
Innovation Solution
A retraction device with a simple construction featuring a pivot element and blocking latch bolt system, where the pivot element is pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the retraction/extension direction, interacting with the inner rail through protrusions or clearances, and utilizing a spring mechanism for automatic retraction, with a damping element to prevent noise and injury.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex retraction device with multiple components is used, then the retraction function is achieved, but the production costs increase and mechanical robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retraction activation function and the drawer blocking function into a single integrated mechanism. The pivot element serves dual purposes: it activates the spring mechanism for retraction and simultaneously interacts with the blocking latch bolt to prevent simultaneous drawer extraction. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components while maintaining mechanical robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot element is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple tasks within the drawer mechanism. It acts as both the trigger for the retraction spring and the interface for the blocking latch bolt system. This universal component approach eliminates the need for separate activation mechanisms and blocking devices, thereby simplifying the overall structure while ensuring reliable operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a blocking mechanism is added to prevent simultaneous drawer extraction, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking latch bolt mechanism is integrated with the existing pivot element structure. The blocking latch bolt utilizes the pivot element's movement and positioning as part of its blocking action, rather than requiring a completely separate blocking system. This integration allows the safety function to be added without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking mechanism operates automatically based on the drawer's extraction state. When one drawer is extracted, the pivot element's position automatically engages or disengages the blocking latch bolt to prevent simultaneous extraction of other drawers. This self-regulating behavior eliminates the need for complex control systems, sensors, or manual operation, achieving safety through the mechanism's inherent mechanical behavior.
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 achieves a mechanically robust and cost-effective retraction device that prevents simultaneous drawer extraction, ensuring safe operation and minimizing noise and injury risks, while maintaining ease of use and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
spring-loaded slide movable in the retraction/extension direction
Implementation Method 2
with a damping element to prevent noise and injury
Data Source
AI summary
A retraction device for a drawer mechanism comprises a spring-loaded carriage that can be moved in the push-in/pull-out direction for temporary coupling to an inner rail of the drawer mechanism. The carriage can be clocked in a retraction position by means of a locking slide that can be moved transverse to the push-in/pull-out direction in a guide. For coupling to the inner rail the carriage has at least one pivot element, which can be pivoted about an axis oriented perpendicular to the push-in/pull-out direction and perpendicular to the direction of movement of the locking slide. The pivot element and guide are arranged in such a manner that, in a locking position, the locking slide blocks a pivoting movement of the pivot element.