Refrigerator Drawer Assembly with Gear-Driven Cover Return Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerators face challenges in efficiently opening and closing pantry assemblies due to the need for excessive user force and the generation of collision noise when the elastic force of the elastic member is high, or incomplete return to the original position when the elastic force is low.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a transmission unit with a connection member, first and second racks, and a gear system that transmits the movement force of the pantry assembly to the cover member, allowing for automatic return to the original position without relying on elastic force, while maintaining horizontal alignment and preventing damage to the cover member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the elastic force of the elastic member is increased, then the receiving member is easily returned to the original position, but the force required to pull the receiving member increases and collision noise occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A transmission unit with a connection member, first rack, second rack, and gear is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the receiving member and cover member. This mechanical transmission system converts the pulling motion into controlled movement, eliminating the need for high elastic force while preventing collision noise through precise mechanical engagement.
2Reliability
If the elastic force of the elastic member is increased, then the receiving member is easily returned to the original position, but collision noise is generated during return
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission unit acts as a mediator that controls the return motion of the receiving member through mechanical engagement of gears and racks. This controlled transmission prevents sudden collisions and noise while ensuring reliable return to the original position, replacing the uncontrolled elastic force mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the elastic force of the elastic member is decreased, then the force to pull the receiving member is reduced, but the receiving member cannot be completely returned to the original position
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission unit with gear and rack mechanisms serves as an intermediary that ensures complete return to the original position through controlled mechanical motion. The system translates the pulling force into precise positional control, eliminating the need for high elastic force while guaranteeing full return completion.
4Extent of automation
If a transmission unit with gear system is added, then automatic return and horizontal alignment are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission unit combines multiple functions (automatic return mechanism, horizontal alignment control, and cover member actuation) into a single integrated gear and rack system. By merging these functions into one compact mechanism, the patent reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a cabinet including an inner case, and a drawer assembly installed in the inner case. The drawer assembly includes a basket which forms a receiving space and can be pulled in and out of the inner case, a supporter assembly connected to the basket to guide an insertion or withdrawal of the basket, and a cover connected to the supporter assembly to cover or uncover the receiving space. The cover may be movable in a direction opposite to a movement of the basket when the basket is inserted or withdrawn. The basket includes a protrusion configured to engage with or disengage from a notch of a connection member to facilitate or prevent transmission of a movement force of the basket to the cover.