Locker assembly and associated insert assembly for a cabinet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locker assemblies either consist of independent self-contained boxes within a cabinet or utilize drawers, differing from the need for a transformative solution that converts a pre-existing cabinet into a functional locker assembly with efficient airflow and cooling characteristics, particularly for refrigerated applications.
Innovation Solution
A locker assembly insert comprising a door frame, dividers, and wire shelves that can be flat-packed for easy transportation and assembly, allowing for a matrix of locker spaces within a cabinet while maintaining the cabinet's operational integrity and airflow, with features like pivotally coupled doors and airflow passages to optimize cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If independent self-contained boxes are used within a cabinet, then each locker is self-contained and can operate independently, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locker assembly is divided into multiple individual locker doors that can be opened independently, each door being a separate component within the overall assembly. This segmentation allows independent operation of each locker while sharing common structural elements like the door frame and hinge mechanism, reducing overall complexity compared to fully independent boxes
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locker doors are combined within a single door frame structure, sharing common hardware components such as hinges, seals, and the overall frame assembly. This merging approach maintains independent access to each locker while reducing the total number of separate components needed, thereby lowering manufacturing complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a locker assembly insert is added to a pre-existing cabinet, then the cabinet is transformed into a functional locker assembly, but the airflow and cooling characteristics may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The door frame and dividers are designed with specific local features such as airflow channels, ventilation openings, and thermally broken sections at strategic locations. These local modifications allow the insert to maintain proper airflow patterns and thermal zones within the refrigerated cabinet while providing the locker functionality, thus preserving cooling characteristics despite the added structure
3Ease of manufacture
If complex locker assemblies are manufactured in factory, then they can be shipped as complete units, but transportation and installation become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locker assembly insert is segmented into multiple flat-pack components including door frames, dividers, and panels that can be compactly packaged for efficient shipping. These segmented components are designed to be easily assembled on-site using simple connection mechanisms, transforming a potentially complex installation into a straightforward assembly process while maintaining factory-manufactured quality
Data Source
AI summary
A locker assembly insert 10 for a cabinet 11. The cabinet 11 is a two door cabinet having a first door 12 and a second door 13. A central mullion 19 having a rear cover plate divides the cabinet 11 down the middle and the doors 12 and 13 close the cabinet. The locker assembly insert 10 in this case is applied to a two door cabinet and has a central support member 20 (which is put in place by first removing the rear cover plate behind the central mullion 19, the rear cover plate is tucked in behind the central support member 20 before assembly allowing it to be reused if the refrigerator is ever restored to its original condition). The insert is completed using vertical divider sets 27, 28 and 29 and ten door locker door assemblies 30 and 31.