Refrigerator Ice Bucket Latch for Selective Pull-Out Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator storage bins either move automatically with the door or remain stationary, lacking user-selectable functionality to control their movement.
Innovation Solution
A latch system on the refrigerator door allows users to selectively engage or disengage a latch with the storage bin, enabling the bin to be pulled out automatically upon door opening or remaining in the compartment unless manually moved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the storage bin is designed to move automatically with the door opening, then user convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mounting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The storage bin mounting system transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic state where the bin can be selectively engaged or disengaged from the door-mounted latch. The latch mechanism allows the bin to be retained on the door for automatic movement or released for manual access, providing dynamic adaptability based on user needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the engagement parameter between the storage bin and the door latch. When engaged, the bin moves with the door; when disengaged, the bin remains stationary. This parameter change (engaged/disengaged state) allows the same mounting system to provide different operational modes without requiring multiple separate mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If the storage bin remains stationary in the refrigeration compartment, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users must manually move the bin after opening the door
Solution Approach 1:
When the latch is engaged, the storage bin serves itself by automatically moving with the door opening, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system uses the door's natural movement to retrieve the bin, making the user's task easier without adding complex active mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a latch system is added to provide selective engagement, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it retains the storage bin on the door for automatic movement, it can be disengaged to allow manual access, and it provides a simple interface for user control. This single component handles what would otherwise require multiple separate mechanisms, achieving multi-functionality without excessive complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator is provided with a cabinet having a door that is openable by a user to provide access to a refrigeration compartment. A storage bin is located in the refrigeration compartment and accessible upon the opening of the cabinet door. A mounting system is arranged for the storage bin, supporting the storage bin for movement into and out of the refrigeration compartment. A latch is carried on the cabinet door to be selectively engaged by the user with a latch receiving portion of the storage bin. When the latch is engaged with the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will be pulled out of the refrigerator upon the opening of the cabinet door, and when the latch is disengaged from the latch receiving portion, the storage bin will remain in the refrigeration compartment, unless manually moved by the user.