Refrigerator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refrigerators with double door structures lack a robust and durable decoupling mechanism between the main door and sub-door, making them difficult to fabricate, assemble, and prone to shock damage.
Innovation Solution
A decoupling device comprising a hook member, locking protrusion, and elastic members that allow selective decoupling between the main door and sub-door, featuring a button-activated mechanism for user input, a repulsive device for spacing the doors, and a design that ensures easy assembly and high shock resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a decoupling device is added to allow selective separation between main door and sub-door, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decoupling device is segmented into distinct functional components: a hook member on the sub-door, a locking protrusion on the main door, and elastic members providing the coupling force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while keeping the overall structure manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic members automatically engage the hook member with the locking protrusion when the sub-door is closed, and automatically release when the sub-door is opened. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention or complex control systems, achieving selective decoupling through passive mechanical means.
2Reliability
If a robust decoupling mechanism is implemented, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The decoupling mechanism is divided into separable components (hook member, locking protrusion, elastic members) that can be manufactured independently using standard fabrication processes, then assembled through simple positioning and attachment operations, reducing overall manufacturing difficulty while ensuring reliable connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook member and locking protrusion use similar geometric forms and attachment methods, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes and assembly techniques. This homogeneity in design approach simplifies production while maintaining robust coupling functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sub-door is rotatably connected to the main door, then the adaptability is improved, but the shock resistance worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic members are pre-installed in a tensioned state that provides cushioning force during the coupling and decoupling process. This beforehand cushioning absorbs shock and impact forces that occur during rotational movement, protecting the hinge and other components from damage while maintaining rotational adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook member and locking protrusion act as intermediary elements between the sub-door and main door, providing a controlled coupling interface that reduces direct shock transmission. The elastic members further mediate the interaction by providing a compliant connection that absorbs impact forces during opening and closing operations.
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 provides a simplified structure for easy fabrication and assembly, enhances durability by reducing shock risk during opening and closing, and prevents re-coupling of the hook member with the locking protrusion, ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
When the button returns to the original position, the elastic member returns the hook member to the original position
Implementation Method 2
a repulsive member whose front surface pushes the inner surface of the other door, and an elastic member that pushes the repulsive member using elastic force
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator includes a cabinet, a main door, an auxiliary storage compartment provided to a rear surface of the main door, and a sub-door. The main door is rotatably connected to the cabinet, and the sub-door is rotatably connected to the main door. An access opening is provided in the main door to allow access to the auxiliary storage compartment. The refrigerator also includes a button exposed at a front surface of the sub-door to receive input provided by a user, a hook member having a pivot shaft mounted to its rear end, and a locking protrusion provided in a groove located on a front surface of the main door that can selectively couple to the hook member. The hook member protrudes backward from a rear surface of the sub-door and can rotate within the sub-door about the pivot shaft in response to receipt of user input at the button.