Opening device for a cooling device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing opening devices for cooling devices are difficult to replace or maintain due to complex wiring connections and unsuitable installation spaces, which complicates service, repair, and design integration.
Innovation Solution
A two-part opening device design with a mounting base and functional unit that uses contact mating to supply power and secure the functional unit without re-routing cables, allowing for tool-free replacement and utilizing existing door hinge securing units for installation, thus simplifying maintenance and retrofitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the opening device is mounted on the cooling device using a connection cable, then the opening device can be installed in the door hinge space, but the opening device becomes difficult to replace for service or repair
Solution Approach 1:
The opening device is divided into two separate parts: a mounting base that remains fixed on the cooling device and a functional unit that can be easily removed. This segmentation allows the functional unit to be replaced without disconnecting the mounting base and its wired connections, solving the contradiction between installation flexibility and ease of repair.
2Ease of operation
If the opening device is mounted on top of the cooling device, then the ejection element can press against the door edge, but the design space is limited and aesthetic integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base is designed to utilize the existing door hinge mounting space and securing units, which were originally intended for hinge installation. This multi-functional use of the door hinge space allows the opening device to be installed without requiring additional space on top of the cooling device, maintaining aesthetic integrity while preserving the door opening function.
3Device complexity
If the functional unit is permanently integrated with the mounting base, then the structure is simplified, but the opening device cannot be easily replaced or maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The opening device is segmented into a mounting base and a functional unit that can be separated. The mounting base contains the wired connections and remains fixed, while the functional unit containing the ejection element can be easily removed and replaced. This segmentation maintains structural simplicity while enabling easy maintenance and replacement of the functional unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between the mounting base and functional unit is designed to be dynamically changeable - easily connectable and disconnectable without tools. This dynamic connection allows the functional unit to be permanently integrated during normal operation for simplicity, but easily separated when maintenance or replacement is needed.
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
Facilitates easy replacement and maintenance of the opening device without disconnection of wiring, enhances design flexibility, and maintains the aesthetic and functional integrity of cooling devices by using existing installation spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The opening device has a coil in which an armature is displaceably mounted. The armature is held in a rest position by a spring element and disengages when the coil is energized.
Data Source
AI summary
An opening device, for a cooling device having a door assembly, includes a mounting base, which can be mounted on provided securing units for a door hinge of the cooling device, and a functional unit having an ejection element, which can be moved out in an electrically controlled manner. The mounting base has contacts and the functional unit has counter contacts. The contacts and the counter contacts contact one another when the functional unit is secured on the mounting base in order to supply the functional unit with current.