Hinged structure for counters and cabinets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counter and cabinet display systems face issues with complex and wear-prone interlocking mechanisms, requiring multiple operators for plate rotation and leading to seal failure over time.
Innovation Solution
A hinged structure featuring a supporting profile with multiple wings and a retaining profile using self-lubricating slippers and a silicone gasket for easy operation and enhanced sealing, allowing single-operator rotation and reduced wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If plastic interlocking elements are used to secure the plate, then the plate can be held in vertical position, but the interlocking elements wear out after several hundreds of openings preventing proper sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical plastic interlocking elements with a magnetic coupling system. Magnets embedded in the plate interact with corresponding magnets in the counter structure, providing holding force without mechanical wear. This substitution eliminates the wear problem inherent in plastic interlocking elements while maintaining the vertical positioning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the holding mechanism from mechanical (plastic) to magnetic field-based. By using magnetic attraction force instead of mechanical interlocking, the system achieves unlimited cycles of operation without wear, fundamentally changing the durability parameter from finite (hundreds of openings) to effectively infinite.
2Reliability
If locks are placed in the inner part of the counter to secure the plate, then the plate remains closed during operation, but two operators are required (one internal and one external) to support the plate during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical lock system requiring two operators with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic force maintains plate security during operation, while the plate can be rotated and opened by a single external operator without requiring internal support, as the magnetic coupling gradually engages and disengages during the rotation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic magnetic coupling that adapts during plate rotation. As the plate rotates from closed to open position, the magnetic coupling transitions from fully engaged to partially engaged, providing continuous holding force that enables single-operator operation while maintaining security throughout the movement sequence.
3Reliability
If the plate is kept in vertical position with safety locks or latches, then the plate remains secure during operational phase, but additional complex interlocking elements are required that increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical safety locks, latches, and interlocking elements with a simplified magnetic coupling system. The magnetic attraction provides both the holding force for vertical positioning and the security for the operational phase, eliminating the need for multiple separate mechanical components and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it holds the plate in vertical position, provides security during the operational phase, and enables controlled rotation. This multi-functional approach replaces what previously required separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing device complexity.
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
Facilitates easy opening and closing of display plates with minimal friction, extending the operational life and ensuring vertical sealing without the need for internal supports or safety locks.
Implementation Method 1
self-lubricating slippers
Implementation Method 2
silicone gasket
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The structure comprising a supporting profile (2) and a retaining profile (3) that rotates with respect to the supporting profile (2); the supporting profile (2) has a first wing (2.1) with a first slipper (5) and at least a second wing (2.2); the retaining profile (3) has a groove (3.1) which lodges the lower part of the plate (1); a slot (3.9) of the retaining profile (3) lodges the free end of the second wing (2.2) of the supporting profile (2); the free end of a wing (3.2) of the retaining profile (3) has a thin layer area (3.4) which lodges a second slipper (10); the free end of the longitudinal axis of the second wing (2.2) of the supporting profile (2) is more external with respect to the longitudinal axis constituting the barycenter of the plate (1); the wing (3.2) of the retaining profile (3) has through threaded holes (3.6, 3.12) which accommodate threaded elements capable of deforming its thin layer area (3.4) by adjusting the interlocking between the two slippers (5, 10).