Linear Driver Ejection Device for Compact Furniture Part Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drive devices for movable furniture parts are bulky and have limited ejection distance, requiring significant space and inefficient ejection mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A compact drive device with a linearly movable driver prestressed by an energy accumulator, coupled with a locking mechanism that can be unlocked via multiple connections, allowing for flexible installation and effective ejection over a longer distance, and synchronized ejection devices for coordinated operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a lever-based ejection device is used, then the locking device can be unlocked to eject the movable furniture part, but the device requires a comparatively large amount of space in the rear area of the drawer and the contact distance during ejection is short

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace requirementVSAvoidejection effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using a rotating lever mechanism that requires rear space, the patent inverts the approach by using a linearly movable driver that pushes the drawer front panel directly from the front. This inversion of the ejection direction eliminates the need for rear installation space and provides a longer ejection contact distance, resolving the contradiction between compact design and ejection effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a rotational lever mechanism operating in a compact rear space to a linear translational driver operating along the length of the drawer. This dimensional change from rotational to linear motion allows for a longer actuation distance and eliminates spatial constraints in the rear area, simultaneously achieving compact overall design and effective ejection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connections are provided on the ejection device, then the device can be adapted to different installation situations, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of connections
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multiple spaced-apart connections on the ejection device that can serve different functions: coupling to actuating elements, connecting to synchronization devices, or linking to mechanical sensors. This multi-functional design allows a single connection structure to adapt to various installation scenarios without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the connections use standardized coupling mechanisms

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

The solution provides a compact, efficient, and flexible ejection mechanism that allows for effective operation in various installation scenarios, ensuring reliable and space-efficient ejection of movable furniture parts.

Implementation Method 1

a linearly movable driver (12) which is prestressed by an energy storage device (22)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEnergy storage device (spring): Spring

Implementation Method 2

the actuating element (50) is biased into a starting position via a spring (68)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3531869B1Drive device for a movable furniture part
Publication Date: 2020.07.22 PAUL HETTICH GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3531869B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3531869B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3531869B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A drive device for a movable furniture part (3) comprises a latchable pushing-out device (6), by means of which the movable furniture part (3) can be shifted in the opening direction from a closed position by a linearly displaceable driver (12) prestressed by an energy store (22), and also comprises a locking means, by way of which the driver (12) can be locked when the energy store (22) is in the stressed state, wherein an adjustment element (50) can be moved by the driver (12) for the purpose of unlocking the locking means, wherein, for the purpose of unlocking the locking means, the adjustment element (50) can be moved by an actuating element (90) provided on the pushing-out device (6). This makes it possible, in dependence on the installation situation, to use different mechanisms for unlocking the locking means.