Pull-out system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull-out systems with holding devices often require significant force to engage and disengage, leading to undesirable haptics and acoustics, and typically occupy more space than necessary due to the arrangement of components.
Innovation Solution
A pull-out system with a holding device featuring a resiliently biased catch that locks via a pivoting shaft, where the latching element engages with a recess in the circumferential direction, allowing for a single perceptible sound or haptic event during operation, and a compact design by eliminating double latching between rail elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a holding device with multiple engagement points is used to secure rail elements, then the reliability of the holding function is improved, but the device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple holding functions into a single integrated holding device that uses one engagement point. The holding device includes a catch with a holding surface that engages with a locking section, and a resiliently biased shaft that provides both the holding function and the detent mechanism in one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate holding and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding device is designed to perform multiple functions through a single mechanism. The resiliently biased shaft serves both as the primary holding element and as a detent mechanism, while the catch provides both positioning and locking functions. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components while maintaining reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a resiliently biased catch with detent mechanism is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding device uses a resiliently biased shaft that automatically engages with the detent mechanism without requiring external actuation. The spring bias provides automatic return to the engaged position, and the detent mechanism self-locks when the shaft reaches the appropriate position, eliminating the need for additional actuators or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent mechanism acts as an intermediary between the resiliently biased shaft and the locking section. It provides a mechanical interface that translates the continuous motion of the shaft into discrete engaged/disengaged states, simplifying the operation while adding minimal complexity through the use of a simple ball-and-socket or cam-based detent.
3Ease of operation
If the latching element engages in the circumferential direction of the shaft, then the haptics and acoustics are improved by reducing engagement force, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential engagement direction of the latching element creates a curved or radial path of engagement rather than a linear one. This curved engagement allows for more gradual contact and distribution of forces, improving haptics and acoustics by reducing impact forces. The circular or arc-shaped engagement path naturally accommodates manufacturing tolerances better than straight-line engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the engagement parameter from axial or radial to circumferential direction. This parameter change allows the latching element to engage along the circumference of the shaft, creating a tangential force component that reduces the normal force required for engagement. This circumferential engagement direction improves user experience by reducing the perceived force while the distributed contact area compensates for manufacturing variations.
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 solution enhances the haptics and acoustics of the pull-out system by reducing the force required for engagement and disengagement, while maintaining a compact design by minimizing the number of engagement points, resulting in improved user experience and space efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently biased catch (20) that locks the shaft (13) in the holding position
Implementation Method 2
the catch (20) having a prestressed latching element (22)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a drawer system comprising at least a first rail element and a second rail element, wherein the first and second rail elements are linearly movable relative to each other via at least one bearing, and a holding device for releasably holding the first and second rail elements relative to each other in an extended position. To provide a drawer system with a holding device offering improved haptics and/or acoustics, the invention proposes that the holding device comprise a shaft fixed to the first rail element or to a first element moving with the first rail element in an extension direction, and pivotable about a pivot axis between a releasing position and a holding position.