Refrigerator appliance subcomponent mounting system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator designs face challenges in efficiently securing subcomponents due to the need for precise alignment of single orifices on fastening anchors, especially when these anchors are pre-positioned with insulating material or require disassembly for realignment.
Innovation Solution
A fastening anchor system with multiple orifices is used, allowing for tolerable alignment ranges and secure mounting of subcomponents to refrigerator walls, utilizing a fastener that engages these orifices to secure the subcomponents to both interior and exterior walls, with the option of self-tapping for ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single orifice on the fastening anchor is used for mounting, then the mounting position is precisely determined, but the alignment difficulty increases and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single orifice is segmented into multiple orifices (first, second, third orifices) arranged in a pattern on the fastening anchor. This segmentation allows the mounting system to provide precise position determination through the pattern while enabling easier alignment by allowing selection among multiple possible fastener positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-point (0D) orifice to a multi-point (2D pattern) orifice arrangement. The orifices are positioned in specific spatial relationships (e.g., triangular pattern, linear arrangement) that add dimensional information for alignment while maintaining precise mounting position through the geometric pattern.
2Reliability
If the fastening anchor is pre-positioned with insulating material, then the insulation integrity is maintained, but the realignment capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening anchor is pre-positioned within the insulating material during manufacturing, establishing the insulation integrity from the outset. The multiple orifices are pre-configured in specific patterns that anticipate future alignment needs, allowing the system to be both pre-positioned for insulation and adaptable for realignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of orifice configuration from a single fixed point to multiple configurable points. This allows the fastening anchor to maintain its pre-positioned state for insulation while providing multiple orifice options that can accommodate different alignment requirements during installation or service.
3Ease of operation
If multiple orifices are provided on the fastening anchor, then the alignment tolerance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening anchor is segmented to include multiple orifices instead of a single orifice. This segmentation improves alignment tolerance by providing multiple possible fastener positions while the orifices follow simple geometric patterns that minimize the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple orifices serve multiple functions: they provide alignment tolerance, enable alternative mounting positions, and maintain structural integrity. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single design feature.
4Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment is required for single orifices, then the mounting accuracy is high, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single orifice is divided into multiple orifices arranged in patterns that guide fastener placement. This segmentation maintains high mounting accuracy through the geometric pattern while reducing installation time by eliminating the need for precise single-point alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring precise alignment for a single orifice (excessive precision requirement), the system uses multiple orifices where only approximate alignment is needed. The fastener can engage any of the multiple orifices, providing sufficient mounting accuracy without the time-consuming precision alignment process.
Data Source
AI summary
A refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet, a subcomponent, an anchor, and a fastener. The cabinet has a plurality of walls defining an internal storage chamber. The subcomponent is disposed within the internal storage chamber. The anchor is disposed on an opposing side of a first of the walls relative to the subcomponent. The anchor defines a plurality of orifices. The fastener engages the subcomponent, extends through the first of the walls, and engages one of the plurality of orifices to secure the subcomponent to the first of the walls.