Drawer Self-Closing Slider Mechanism for Smooth Push-Open Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-closing and opening systems for furniture drawers are complex, require maintenance, and have high costs, making them inefficient and difficult to integrate effectively with automated opening mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A self-closing device that uses a slider with a stop element and elastic means to allow easy operation and integration with opening systems, featuring a weaker first spring and a stronger second spring for controlled movement, allowing for reliable and low-maintenance operation without altering the furniture's aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a ratchet system is used for automated opening of a drawer, then the drawer can be opened automatically with light pressure, but the forces of the ratchet and self-closing device oppose each other preventing smooth operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a drawing element as an intermediary component that couples the ratchet system and self-closing device through a common slider. This mediator allows both systems to work together harmoniously by transmitting forces through the slider, eliminating the opposing force problem and enabling smooth automated operation.
2Extent of automation
If complex systems with electrical motors are used to compensate forces, then automated opening and closing can be achieved, but the device becomes highly complex requiring continuous maintenance and having high costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the slider automatically balances the forces between the ratchet spring and self-closing spring during operation. The system self-regulates through the mechanical interaction of the slider with both springs, eliminating the need for complex electrical motors or continuous maintenance while achieving reliable automated operation.
3Ease of operation
If a self-closing device is integrated with a drawer, then the drawer closes automatically, but the device occupies space and may alter the aesthetics of the furniture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the self-closing device components within the existing drawer structure. The slider moves within a groove in the fixed guide, and the drawing element is integral with the extractable guide, effectively hiding the mechanism within the drawer's existing spatial framework. This nesting approach minimizes additional space occupation and maintains furniture aesthetics.
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-maintenance, and cost-effective automatic opening and closing of drawers, facilitating user operation and integration with various furniture types without complex components or high costs.
Implementation Method 1
substantially has a thrust element that is released by a light pressure and when released, under an elastic force, imparts a thrust to the drawer
Implementation Method 2
Normally, a decelerator also works in cooperation with the self-closing device which absorbs the closing of the drawer dampening the shock that would occur by the effect of the closing spring of the same
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a self-closing device for a drawer or for a moveable part of a piece of furniture that includes a support body for a slider moveable within a guide between a rear and a front position and vice versa by the action of a first elastic element. The slider is actuated by a drawing element integral with an extractable part affixed to the drawer or the like, the guide, at the area corresponding to the rear position of the slider, includes an element for moving the slider, suitable for engaging with an element for guiding the slider during its engagement with a drawing part present on the drawing element. There is further provided a stop element against which the slider lies directly or indirectly before engaging with a first guide element.