Modular Drawer Handle Assembly for Brand-Specific Refrigerators

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complexity and high production costs of home appliances, such as refrigerators, arise from the need for brand-specific designs and handles, which can be costly and complicated due to the requirement for separate handle components and additional fixing elements.

Innovation Solution

A modular handle system where a connection profile is fixed to the container using force-fit, form-fit, or adhesive connections, allowing for brand-specific designs without additional fixing elements, reducing material and labor costs while maintaining a durable and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single piece handle design is used, then the handle has a durable and simple structure, but the production cost increases and brand-specific design flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandle durabilityVSAvoidproduction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The handle is divided into two separate components: a connection profile (first profile) that attaches to the container, and a second profile that forms the visible handle portion. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using optimal materials and processes, reducing overall production cost while maintaining structural integrity through the connection profile.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If brand-specific handle designs are implemented, then design customization is improved, but device complexity and production cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedesign customizationVSAvoidhandle structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection profile serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting interface for the handle, ensures secure attachment to the container, and allows for easy replacement of the second profile. This universal connection system enables different second profiles (for different brands or variants) to use the same connection mechanism, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If separate handle components are used, then production flexibility is improved, but additional fixing elements and assembly steps are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection profile and second profile are designed to work together as an integrated handle system. The connection profile incorporates mounting features directly into its structure, eliminating the need for separate fixing elements like screws or clips. This merging of functions reduces the total number of components while maintaining production flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10240858B2Home appliance having drawer-type movable container with a handle

Publication Date: 2019.03.26 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH

AI summary

A home appliance, particularly a domestic refrigerator, includes a container being a drawer-type movable container and having a handle for the container. The handle has a connection profile fixed to the container and a second profile fixed to the connection profile, for forming the handle.