Semi-full access and full access framed cabinetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional framed cabinets restrict access to the interior due to protruding face frames, while frameless cabinets lack structural integrity and aesthetic uniformity, and semi-frameless cabinets are heavy, costly, and prone to sagging.
Innovation Solution
The semi-full access and full access framed cabinet designs invert the face frame stiles and rails by 90 degrees, allowing them to be flush with the cabinet sides, providing structural support, increased access, and a uniform aesthetic while using thinner, lighter materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional face frames are used with stiles protruding into the cabinet opening, then structural integrity and hinge mounting surface are provided, but access to the cabinet interior is restricted and interior space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stile members are inverted so that their greater dimension extends in the depth direction rather than the width direction. This inversion allows the stiles to be positioned flush with the side panels, eliminating the protrusion into the cabinet opening while maintaining structural integrity through the increased depth of the stile members.
Solution Approach 2:
The design transitions from a two-dimensional frame profile (where stiles protrude in width) to a three-dimensional configuration (where stiles extend in depth). By changing the dimensional orientation of the stile members, the patent achieves both full access and structural support simultaneously.
2Strength
If face frame members are made deeper to provide structural support, then structural integrity is improved, but the protrusion into the cabinet opening increases and access is further restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional stile configuration by rotating the cross-sectional dimensions 90 degrees. The greater dimension now extends in the depth direction (parallel to side panels) rather than the width direction (perpendicular to side panels). This provides structural support through increased depth while eliminating protrusion into the cabinet opening.
3Ease of operation
If frameless cabinet construction is used to eliminate face frames, then access to the cabinet interior is maximized, but structural integrity and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of completely eliminating the face frame (frameless) or using a full traditional frame (which restricts access), the patent applies a partial frame approach where only the necessary structural elements (inverted stiles) are retained. This partial action provides sufficient structural support and stability while maximizing cabinet access.
Solution Approach 2:
The inverted stile members provide localized structural support at critical positions (front corners and edges) where strength is most needed, while the rest of the cabinet construction can use lighter materials. This local quality approach maintains stability without requiring a complete traditional frame structure.
4Shape
If semi-frameless construction with veneer edge pieces is used, then a finished appearance is achieved, but the cabinet becomes heavy, costly, and prone to sagging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inverted stile members made from engineered wood products (such as particle board or plywood) that provide both structural strength and a finished appearance. This composite material approach replaces heavy solid wood or veneer edge pieces while maintaining aesthetic quality and reducing weight.
Data Source
AI summary
A semi-full access and full access face frame for a cabinet box is provided, together with a method for making and assembling cabinet boxes. In a semi-full access face frame, the vertical stiles are rotated ninety degrees compared to a traditional face frame. In a full access face frame the vertical stiles and the horizontal rails are rotated ninety degrees compared to a traditional face frame.