Furniture Guide Synchronization Only Along the Switching Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing furniture guide systems face challenges in maintaining reliable movement and synchronization of furniture parts, particularly drawers, due to tilting issues and space constraints, which can lead to impaired functionality and maintenance needs.
Innovation Solution
A device with two spaced guide devices equipped with switching mechanisms and driver elements, where synchronization is limited to the switching path, allowing for a compact design and efficient movement without unnecessary friction, and includes adjustable and detachable components to compensate for manufacturing tolerances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If synchronization elements (driver elements and catch elements) are provided over the entire pull-out movement path, then synchronization between left- and right-hand guide devices is maintained, but the device requires more installation space and generates unnecessary friction during extension movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the movement path into two distinct segments: a switching path where synchronization is required (between the switching device and the catch elements) and an extension path where synchronization is not needed. The driver elements and catch elements are only positioned to interact during the switching path segment, allowing the furniture part to move freely during the extension path without friction from synchronizing elements. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing synchronization only where necessary.
2Reliability
If synchronization elements are provided over the entire pull-out movement path, then synchronization is maintained, but friction from synchronizing elements impairs movement and increases maintenance needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interaction between driver elements and catch elements to occur only during the switching path segment. During the extension path, the driver elements are separated from the catch elements, eliminating friction and allowing smooth movement. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining synchronization reliability during switching operations while ensuring ease of operation during extension movement.
3Reliability
If driver elements and catch elements are positioned to interact over the entire movement path, then synchronization is ensured, but the device becomes more complex and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the synchronization mechanism by segmenting it to operate only during the switching path. The driver elements are designed to engage with catch elements only in the switching region, allowing the mechanism to be simpler and more compact. During the extension path, no interaction occurs, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining necessary switching synchronization.
4Reliability
If the switching path is made longer to ensure proper engagement of driver and catch elements, then switching reliability improves, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic positioning of the driver elements and catch elements, allowing them to be positioned optimally within a compact switching path. The elements are designed to engage and disengage at appropriate points during the movement, ensuring reliable switching operations within a shorter, more compact path length rather than requiring a long fixed engagement path.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (3) for moving a first furniture part relative to a second furniture part with two guide devices (4a, 4b) spaced apart from one another, in which switching devices are provided, is proposed. A closed position of the first furniture part can be specified with the switching devices. Furthermore, connecting means (5) are provided for a coupled shifting movement of the shifting devices between the guide devices (4a, 4b). According to the invention, a driver element is provided on each of the guide devices (4a, 4b) and there are catch elements for the driver elements, with movements of the catch elements being coupled, with a driver element each interacting with a catch element at least along a switching path of the switching device and with at least one movement of the guide devices (4a, 4b) the driver elements are separated from the catch elements.