A cooling device wherein the opening direction of the door can be changed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cooling devices with fixed door opening directions face issues when relocated, causing door misalignment or obstruction, and existing solutions with changeable handles lead to aesthetic distortions and increased labor costs due to removable plugs.
Innovation Solution
The cooling device features adjustable door opening directions with a handle mounting system that includes carriers and support members with snap-fitting covers, preventing plug loss and eliminating the need for additional labor during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If removable plugs are used to close unused openings for handle mounting, then the door can be configured for different opening directions, but the plugs can fall and get lost during transportation and use, causing aesthetic appearance to be distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is merged with the support member to form an integrated assembly. The support member has a body portion that receives the plug and a cover portion that extends to close the opening. This integration ensures the plug cannot separate or get lost, while still allowing the handle to be mounted by removing the cover portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member with integrated plug is pre-installed in the opening before the handle mounting process. This preliminary placement ensures the plug is securely positioned and cannot fall or get lost during transportation or subsequent handling, while the cover portion remains removable for handle installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If removable plugs are used to close unused openings, then the handle position can be changed, but additional workmen are employed for mounting the plug and thus labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support member combines multiple functions: it provides structural support, holds the plug securely, and offers a removable cover for handle access. This integration eliminates the need for separate plug mounting operations, reducing assembly steps and labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member serves multiple purposes: it acts as a structural element, a plug holder, and a guide for handle installation. This multi-functionality consolidates several components into one, simplifying the assembly process and reducing the need for additional workers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If plugs are used to close unused openings, then the handle can be mounted on either side, but the exterior appearance is distorted when plugs are present
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed with differentiated regions: the body portion that receives the plug and the cover portion that extends to close the opening. The cover portion is shaped to match the door surface contour, providing local aesthetic quality that blends with the surrounding area while the plug remains hidden inside.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover portion acts as an intermediary element between the plug and the external environment. It conceals the plug and the opening, providing a smooth transition to the door surface, while still allowing access to the plug when handle mounting is required.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a cooling device (1) comprising at least one cabinet (2) wherein foodstuffs to be cooled are placed, at least one door (3) providing access into the cabinet (2), at least one handle (4) providing the door (3) to be opened/closed the door (3), at least one opening (5) situated on the door (3), enabling the one end of the handle (4) to be inserted through for mounting the handle (4) to the door (3), at least one carrier (6) disposed on the inner surface of the door (3), at the level of the opening (5) and providing the handle (4) to be mounted to the door (3), and wherein the opening direction of the door (3) can be changed.