Retaining element for an extendable cabinet frame for a pull-out tall cabinet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for extendable tall cabinets fail to provide a straightforward and tool-free method for attaching additional storage elements to the cabinet frame, leading to inefficiencies in utilizing available height and optimal storage space arrangement.
Innovation Solution
A holding element with a C-shaped cross-section, featuring a slot that can be manually expanded for tool-free attachment to the cabinet frame, allowing for adjustable storage area placement and easy installation without requiring tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a support element sleeve is used to attach additional shelves to the inner support element, then additional storage spaces can be provided, but the installation requires tool-free manual expansion and precise leveling which complicates the installation process
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element utilizes elastic deformation of the slot to change its dimensional parameters during installation. The slot is designed to be expandable manually, allowing the holding element to be attached to the support element without tools by temporarily deforming the slot beyond its normal dimensions, then returning to its original shape to secure the attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is designed to be self-leveling through its geometric configuration. The specific geometry of the holding element ensures that when attached to the support element, it automatically orients itself horizontally without requiring manual leveling or adjustment, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning during installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the support element sleeve is positioned at different heights, then storage space arrangement can be adjusted, but the distance to existing shelves becomes inconsistent which reduces storage efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element incorporates a standardized height parameter that ensures consistent spacing between shelves. By fixing the vertical position of the receiving elements on the holding element, the design maintains uniform storage module dimensions regardless of where the holding element is attached on the support element, thus preserving storage efficiency while allowing vertical repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding element is designed as a universal component that can be attached at multiple positions on the support element while maintaining consistent storage module dimensions. The receiving elements are positioned at standardized intervals, allowing the same holding element design to be used throughout the cabinet structure, ensuring uniform storage spaces across different shelf levels.
3Ease of manufacture
If the slot width is kept constant, then the holding element structure is simple, but manual expansion for tool-free attachment becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The slot is designed with non-uniform width distribution along its length. Specific regions of the slot have different width characteristics to facilitate manual expansion in certain areas while maintaining structural integrity in others. This local variation in slot geometry allows the holder to be easily attached without tools by expanding only the necessary portions of the slot.
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
Enables easy, tool-free attachment of additional storage areas to the cabinet frame, optimizing the use of available height and maintaining consistent storage space arrangement, thus enhancing storage efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
The slot can be manually expanded for tool-free attachment to the cabinet frame
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
A retaining element (10) for an extendable cabinet frame for a tall cabinet comprises a first wall element (1), a second wall element (2), and a third wall element (3), wherein the second wall element (2) and the third wall element (3) are arranged adjacent to the first wall element (1). The second wall element (2) is arranged opposite the third wall element (3). Opposite the first wall element (1) is a fourth wall element (4). The fourth wall element (4) has a longitudinally extending slot (5).