Folding Shelf Mechanism for Refrigerator Space Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerator shelving systems lack flexible storage solutions that optimize space utilization while maintaining the refrigeration environment, as they do not efficiently accommodate varying storage needs without compromising the temperature control and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator shelving system comprising a stationary shelf with a folding shelf and sliders, supported by suspenders and side adapters, allowing the folding shelf to transition between deployed and folded positions, thereby optimizing storage space without disrupting the refrigeration process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional fixed shelving system is used, then the structural integrity and temperature control are maintained, but the storage flexibility and space utilization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The shelving system incorporates a folding shelf that can transition between deployed and folded positions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the shelf to adapt to different storage needs while maintaining structural integrity through controlled mechanical movement via suspenders and sliders
Solution Approach 2:
The shelving system is divided into separate functional components: a stationary shelf, a folding shelf, suspenders, sliders, and support tabs. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall adaptability of the system
2Adaptability or versatility
If a folding shelf mechanism is added to enhance storage flexibility, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The folding shelf nests underneath the stationary shelf when folded, with the suspenders and sliders nesting within designated spaces. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization while keeping the additional components compact and integrated into the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The sliders serve multiple functions: they guide the folding shelf movement, provide structural support, and enable the transition between folded and deployed positions. The suspenders similarly provide both structural support and enable the folding mechanism, reducing the need for separate dedicated components
3Volume of moving object
If the folding shelf is deployed to increase storage space, then the volume utilization improves, but the space available for other components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The folding shelf utilizes the vertical dimension by folding downward from the stationary shelf, rather than expanding horizontally. This allows the folding shelf to provide additional storage volume while maintaining a compact horizontal footprint when folded, effectively using three-dimensional space efficiently
Data Source
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AI summary
A refrigerator (10) shelving system (26) includes a stationary shelf (36) and a pair of first and second sliders (58, 59) supported under opposite sides of the stationary shelf and configured to move longitudinally. Front and rear support tabs (176) are associated with each of the sliders (58, 59) and are longitudinally spaced from each other. The system further includes a folding shelf (50), a front pair of opposing suspenders (60, 62) having first portions pivotally attached to the sliders (58, 59) and a second portions pivotally attached to the folding shelf (50), and a rear pair of opposing suspenders (60, 62) having first portions pivotally attached to the sliders (58, 59) and second portions pivotally attached to the folding shelf (50). The folding shelf (50) is movable from a deployed position (172), in which the front and rear suspenders (60, 62) are vertical to place the folding shelf (50) under, and spaced from, the stationary shelf (36), to a folded position (174) in which the front and rear suspenders (60, 62) are horizontal and disposed on top surfaces of the front and rear support tabs (176) to nest the folding shelf (50) under the stationary shelf (36).