Handle-Free Refrigerator Storage Box With Auto-Opening Pivot

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage boxes in refrigerators have limited space for storing items due to the presence of pull handles, and these handles can become polluted when opened with dirty hands.

Innovation Solution

A storage box design that eliminates the need for a pull handle by incorporating an elastic element and a locking device, allowing the storage box body to automatically open with a pivot shaft mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a pull handle is provided on the storage box, then the storage box can be easily opened and closed, but the space for storing items is substantially reduced and the handle is likely to be polluted when opened with dirty hands

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of opening and closing storage boxVSAvoidspace for storing items

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the traditional pull handle from the storage box, extracting the component that causes space reduction and pollution issues. The opening function is achieved through an alternative mechanism involving a pressing member and elastic element, eliminating the need for a protruding handle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The storage box employs an automatic opening mechanism where pressing a pressing member triggers the elastic element to drive the box body outward. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual handling of a polluting handle while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If a pull handle is provided on the storage box, then the storage box can be easily opened and closed, but the handle is likely to be polluted when opened with dirty hands

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of opening and closing storage boxVSAvoidpollution of handle

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the traditional pull handle from the storage box, extracting the component that causes space reduction and pollution issues. The opening function is achieved through an alternative mechanism involving a pressing member and elastic element, eliminating the need for a protruding handle.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The storage box employs an automatic opening mechanism where pressing a pressing member triggers the elastic element to drive the box body outward. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual handling of a polluting handle while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of manufacture

If the storage box is designed with a traditional handle, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the overall appearance is affected and user experience is undesirable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of structureVSAvoidpollution and appearance degradation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the pressing member with the storage box body, eliminating separate handle components. The elastic element is integrated into the box structure, combining multiple functions (opening force, positioning) into unified components that are simpler to manufacture while avoiding pollution issues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing member serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural component of the box and an actuating mechanism for opening. The elastic element provides both the opening force and maintains the box in open position, reducing the need for separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This design expands the storage space by removing the handle and enhances user experience by allowing the storage box to open automatically, reducing the risk of pollution and improving ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic element, and a locking device wherein the elastic element is fitted with the locking device so that the storage box body can turn automatically

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4130625B1Storage box and refrigerator having the same

Publication Date: 2025.04.30 QINDAO HAIER REFRIGERATOR CO LTD

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AI summary

The present application discloses a storage box, comprising an enclosure, a storage box body, a pivot shaft connected to the enclosure and the storage box body, an elastic element disposed between the pivot shaft and the enclosure, and a locking device, wherein the elastic element always provides a driving force driving the storage box body to turn outwards the enclosure about the pivot shaft; the locking device comprises a locking portion disposed on the enclosure, and a fitting portion which is disposed on the storage box body and push-fitted with the locking portion. The storage box body can automatically turn without a handle being disposed, thereby expanding the space for storing items.