Offset Channel Sliding Support for Higher Load Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding supports for furniture and domestic appliances lack sufficient load-bearing capability while maintaining a compact design, which is essential for both strength and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A sliding support design featuring offset elongate channel section members with an intermediate member connected at an angle, allowing for flexing and increased load-bearing capacity, along with multiplicity of ball bearings and retainers for precise alignment, reduces material requirements and enhances stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional sliding support design with parallel channel section members is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the load-bearing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by offsetting the first and second channel section members relative to each other in the direction of their webs, rather than arranging them in parallel alignment. This asymmetric arrangement creates an intermediate space that accommodates the intermediate member and ball bearings, thereby increasing load-bearing capability while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard channel section profiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional arrangement by positioning the intermediate member between the offset channel section members, creating a three-dimensional structural configuration. This spatial arrangement allows the intermediate member to engage with both channel members, effectively distributing and increasing the load-bearing capability beyond what traditional parallel arrangements achieve.
2Strength
If more material is used to increase load-bearing capacity, then strength improves, but material requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sliding support into distinct functional components: first and second channel section members, an intermediate member, and ball bearings with retainers. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while using minimal material, achieving high load-bearing capacity without excessive material consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structural system combining metal channel section members with polymeric intermediate members and bearing assemblies. This composite approach leverages the strengths of different materials to achieve superior load-bearing capacity per unit of material used, reducing overall material requirements while maintaining or enhancing strength.
3Volume of moving object
If compact design is maintained, then space efficiency is improved, but load-bearing capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the intermediate member within the space created by the offset channel section members, and positioning the ball bearings within the intermediate member's internal cavity. This nested arrangement achieves a compact overall profile while maintaining the structural integrity and load-bearing capability provided by the multi-component design.
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 design achieves higher load-bearing capacity and stability, reduces material usage, and simplifies manufacturing, enabling the production of cost-effective and efficient sliding supports that withstand more weight with less distortion and deformation.
Implementation Method 1
Sliding engagement between the members is provided by ball bearings retained by a retaining member located between the two elongate members
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to sliding supports and particularly sliding supports having two elongate members of channel section and an intermediate member positioned between the elongate members. The invention provides a sliding support with improved manufacturability and load bearing capability by providing an intermediate member of alternative cross-section.


