Sequential Drawer Slide Connector for Smooth Coordinated Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Household drawer slides with multiple extension members often experience uncoordinated movement, leading to reduced lifespan, uneven friction, and increased force requirements for closure, particularly in sequential slides which lack the quality and durability of synchronized systems.
Innovation Solution
A sequential slide mechanism comprising a lower and upper extension member with an intermediate extension member, featuring an extension member connector with a rear end and front end, where the connector's head transitions between locking and free-running positions via an elastic extension arm, ensuring consistent friction and preventing excessive force on the rollers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synchronized drawer slides with cogs, chains, or string mechanisms are used, then movement coordination and luxurious feeling are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex synchronization mechanism (cogs, chains, string) from the drawer slide system, retaining only the essential sliding function. The intermediate slide member is eliminated, and the drawer slide member connects directly to the cabinet slide member, achieving coordination through geometric constraints rather than active synchronization components.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the cabinet slide member with guide rails, the drawer slide member with sliding surfaces, and the intermediate connection through the elastic arm. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing independent optimization while maintaining overall coordination.
2Duration of action of moving object
If sequential drawer slides with shifting control lever are used, then weight distribution and roller wear are improved, but perceived quality and friction consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an elastic arm that dynamically adjusts the connection between drawer and cabinet slide members during movement. The elastic arm flexes and returns, automatically compensating for friction variations and maintaining consistent operation force throughout the sliding sequence, eliminating the need for manual control levers.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm changes the mechanical parameters (flexibility, connection point) during the sliding sequence, allowing the system to adapt friction characteristics dynamically. This maintains consistent operation force while preserving the sequential movement benefits for weight distribution and roller wear.
3Reliability
If spring clip or latch mechanisms are used for sequential movement, then movement sequencing is achieved, but friction peak and audible click are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of rigid mechanical engagement into a benefit by using an elastic arm that flexes during the transition. The elastic deformation absorbs the impact energy that would otherwise create friction peaks and audible clicks, transforming a harmful mechanical shock into a beneficial cushioning effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic arm is positioned to flex in advance during the movement sequence, cushioning the transition between sliding phases before the friction peak can occur. This pre-cushioning eliminates the abrupt mechanical engagement that causes clicks and friction spikes.
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 mechanism provides a longer-lasting, cost-effective solution with even friction and eliminates the 'click' or 'peak' issues, offering a consistent opening and closing force, similar to synchronized slides but with improved durability and reduced manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a head (13) connected to the body (7) via an elastic extension arm (14)
Implementation Method 2
the lower extension member and upper extension member being slidable in relation to the intermediate extension member
Data Source
AI summary
A sequential slide mechanism for household effects is provided. The slide mechanism comprises a lower extension member, an upper extension member and an intermediate extension member, said extension members having a longitudinal extension, said upper extension member having a cut-out facing the lower extension member. The lower extension member and upper extension member being slidable in relation to the intermediate extension member. An extension member connector is attached to the intermediate extension member, said extension member connector having a rear end and a front end. The extension member connector comprises a main body mounted on the intermediate extension member and a head at the front end, said head being connected to the body via an elastic extension arm. The head has a top glide surface and a lower glide surface. The head is in an upper extension member locking position when the lower glide surface slides upon the cabinet slide and a part of the head is positioned in the cut-out. The head is in an upper extension member free-running position when said top glide surface slides upon the upper extension member.