Refrigerator Panel Step Adjustment Using Segmented Positioning Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerators with adjustable panel steps face complexity in precise movement and fixation mechanisms, leading to increased manufacturing costs and reduced efficiency in harmonizing with surrounding environments.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerator design featuring first and second adjustment members on the upper and lateral surfaces of the door, respectively, allows for simplified and precise adjustment of the panel's position, using coupling brackets and fastening parts to ensure efficient step adjustment and fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a complex precise movement mechanism is used to adjust the panel step, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is divided into separate adjustment members (first adjustment member for vertical adjustment, second adjustment member for horizontal adjustment) that can be independently positioned and adjusted. Each adjustment member operates independently to control one dimension of panel positioning, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment members are positioned at different locations and orientations on the door structure. The first adjustment member is disposed on the upper surface for vertical control, while the second adjustment member is disposed on the lateral surface for horizontal control, using spatial dimensioning to simplify the mechanism.
2Reliability
If a complex fixation mechanism is used to secure the panel, then the fixation reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system uses separate coupling brackets (first coupling bracket on upper surface, second coupling bracket on lateral surface) that correspond to each adjustment member. Each bracket independently secures the panel in its respective dimension, providing reliable fixation without requiring a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling brackets are pre-positioned and secured to the door structure before the panel is installed. This preliminary fixation of the brackets to the door provides a stable foundation that simplifies the final panel attachment while ensuring reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate adjustment members are used to adjust panel position in different directions, then the adjustment versatility is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the first and second adjustment members use the same basic structure and mechanism type, allowing them to perform multiple functions (vertical and horizontal adjustment) through identical component designs. This standardization enables manufacturing economies while providing versatile positioning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment members and coupling brackets are designed with homogeneous structures and materials, using consistent design patterns throughout the system. This uniformity simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces costs while maintaining the ability to adjust the panel in multiple directions.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present disclosure, disclosed is a refrigerator in which a first adjustment member disposed on the upper surface of a door adjusts the up-down position of a panel, and a second adjustment member disposed on the lateral surfaces of the door adjusts the left-right position of the panel, ensuring the simplification of the panel” movement mechanism for adjusting a step as well as a precise adjustment thereof.