Shelves and refrigerator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing refrigerator shelves are inconvenient for storing large-volume items as they require removal, which is not practical for varied user needs.

Innovation Solution

A foldable shelf assembly with a rotating mechanism and limiting mechanisms allows shelves to be rotated and positioned at different angles, creating additional storage space and independent compartments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed glass shelf is used in the refrigerator, then the shelf structure is simple and stable, but it is inconvenient to store large-volume items as the shelf cannot be adjusted or folded

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage flexibilityVSAvoidshelf structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shelf transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic foldable structure. The second shelf is rotatably connected to the first shelf via a rotating mechanism, allowing the second shelf to be folded upward when large-volume items need to be stored, and rotated downward to horizontal position for normal storage, providing adaptability while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The shelf is divided into multiple independent sections (first shelf and second shelf) that can move relative to each other. The rotating mechanism connects these segments, enabling the second shelf to be folded independently without affecting the first shelf, thus achieving versatility without excessive complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the second shelf is folded upward to create more storage space, then large-volume items can be stored, but the shelf may rotate to arbitrary angles causing instability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage configurationVSAvoidshelf position

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The limiting mechanism prevents the second shelf from rotating to arbitrary angles by providing predetermined limiting positions. The limiting piece on the refrigerator liner interacts with the limiting mechanism to block excessive rotation, ensuring the shelf remains stable at intended angles (horizontal or folded upward) while still allowing flexible storage configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The shelf system maintains dynamic flexibility through controlled movement. The rotating mechanism allows movement between defined positions, while the limiting mechanism ensures stability at those positions by preventing unintended rotation, achieving both adaptability and stability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the rotating mechanism allows free rotation of the second shelf, then flexible positioning is achieved, but the shelf may rotate excessively and lose its functional positions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshelf positioningVSAvoidshelf position retention

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The limiting mechanism is designed to prevent excessive rotation before it can occur. By positioning the limiting piece on the refrigerator liner to interact with the limiting mechanism, the system proactively blocks rotation beyond functional angles, ensuring the shelf remains in reliable positions (horizontal for storage or folded for large items) without drifting to ineffective angles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS20260049757A1Shelves and refrigerator

Publication Date: 2026.02.19 WHIRLPOOL (CHINA) CO LTD

AI summary

A refrigerator shelf assembly includes a first shelf that is operably coupled to a second shelf by a rotating mechanism. A limiting mechanism is installed at both ends of a side of the second shelf away from the first shelf. Each limiting mechanism is operably coupled to a limiting member at a preset position of a refrigerator liner.