Movable Sub-Storage Body Design for Refrigerator Storage Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage units in refrigerators, such as cheese boxes, have limited storage space due to a single inner cavity, which restricts the ability to accommodate varying sizes and types of items efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A storage unit with a sub-storage body that can move between retraction and extension positions, increasing storage capacity by creating separate main and extended storage portions, with a cover sealing the opening to maintain cleanliness and tidiness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If a storage unit has only one inner cavity, then the structure is simple, but the storage space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is divided into a container body and a sub-storage body that can be separated. The sub-storage body can be removed from the container body to create independent storage portions, effectively doubling the storage space while maintaining structural simplicity when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-storage body is designed to be movable between an extended position (outside the container body) and a retracted position (inside the container body). This dynamic configuration allows the storage unit to adapt its storage capacity based on user needs without permanently increasing structural complexity
2Ease of operation
If items are stored in separate portions without contact, then organization is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit creates two distinct main storage portions (first main storage portion in the container body and second main storage portion in the sub-storage body) that are physically separated when the sub-storage body is extended. This segmentation allows items to be stored in separate portions without contact, improving organization while using a simple removable sub-storage body design
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Disclosed are a storage unit and a refrigerator. The storage unit includes: a container body (11, 21, 31, 40), and further includes a sub-storage body (12, 22, 32, 50) that is mounted to the container body (11, 21, 31, 40) in a manner of being movable between an extension position and a retraction position. At the retraction position, the storage unit includes a first main storage portion located inside the container body (11, 21, 31, 40); and at the extension position, the storage unit includes a second main storage portion located inside the container body (11, 21, 31, 40) and an extended storage portion located outside the container body (11, 21, 31, 40). In the present invention, the storage space of the storage unit is increased after the sub-storage body is disposed.