Multi-Joint Link Hinge Layout for Narrow Refrigerator Door Gaps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerators with multi-joint link hinges face issues such as increased intervals between doors due to the size and thickness of the hinge devices, leading to interference with adjacent objects and drooping of heavy doors, which affects normal opening and closing operations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-joint link hinge system with a hinge bracket, side portions, and link modules that include links and a supporter with a plate shape made of polyoxymethylene, designed to minimize the interval between doors and prevent drooping by using a spacer and supporting ball for smooth rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the hinge device is made thicker to avoid drooping of the upper door, then the structural strength is improved, but the interval between the upper door and lower door increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge device is divided into an upper link module and a lower link module that operate independently. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized separately - the upper module can be thinner since it doesn't need to support the full door weight alone, while the lower module provides the necessary structural strength. The result is a reduced overall interval between doors while maintaining adequate strength to prevent drooping.
2Length of moving object
If the hinge device is made thinner to reduce the interval between doors, then the interval between doors is reduced, but the drooping of the upper door increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the hinge into upper and lower link modules that rotate independently about the same axis, the system achieves better door stability without increasing the overall thickness. The lower link module can be designed with sufficient strength to prevent drooping, while the upper module remains thin. Together they provide stable door support with minimal interval between doors.
3Force
If the hinge device has a large width to support heavy doors, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the interference with adjacent objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The independent rotation of upper and lower link modules allows the hinge to support heavy doors with greater load-bearing capacity while maintaining a compact overall width. Each module can be optimized for its specific function, reducing the horizontal space required while maintaining the ability to bear door weight and prevent drooping.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-joint link hinge includes a hinge bracket, a plurality of side portions, a link module, and a door bracket coupled to the link module. The hinge bracket includes a base portion that defines a plurality of screw coupling holes at a vertical surface of the base portion, and a plurality of side portions that extend from the base portion in a horizontal direction and are spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction. The link module includes a plurality of links that are coupled to the plurality of side portions along an axis that extends in the vertical direction, where the plurality of links is disposed between the plurality of side portions.