Refrigerator Storage Drawer with Bottom-Actuated Push-Open Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator storage drawers require frequent and inconvenient operations for opening and closing, often necessitating the use of both hands and limiting design and storage space due to the need for a handle.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design featuring a storage drawer with an actuator on its bottom face that allows for automatic extension and retraction, utilizing a push-opening damper and guide rail system for simple operation, enabling one-handed use and improved aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a handle is added to the drawer for opening, then the drawer can be opened easily, but the design is limited and storage space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional handle from the drawer front and extracts the opening function to the drawer bottom surface. Users press the bottom surface of the drawer to open it, eliminating the need for a handle protruding from the drawer front. This extraction principle resolves the contradiction by maintaining ease of operation without compromising storage space or design aesthetics.
2Ease of operation
If the drawer is made to extend automatically, then user convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the drawer bottom surface itself serves as the actuating element. When pressed, the bottom surface directly triggers the extension mechanism through a simple linkage or cam structure, eliminating the need for complex motors, sensors, or control systems. The drawer essentially opens itself in response to user pressure, achieving automatic extension with minimal added complexity.
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
Enhances user convenience by allowing easy, one-handed operation of the storage drawer while maintaining a compact design and improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the refrigerator.
Implementation Method 1
a push-opening damper and guide rail system for simple operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A refrigerator having a first storage compartment having a first storage space defined therein, a door disposed on the first storage compartment to open and close the first storage space, a drawer-receiving portion defined in the first storage space; a storage drawer configured to be extendable from and retractable into the drawer-receiving portion, and an actuator disposed on a bottom face of the drawer-receiving portion, wherein the actuator is configured to move the storage drawer in an extended direction as the storage drawer is pressed in a retracted direction.