Retractable-Wheel Drawer for Stacked Mixer Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing single-drawer systems for mixing machines and food processors are inconvenient as they do not allow easy operation when stacked, as the space between the countertop and the cabinet is insufficient, forcing users to remove and reposition the device to install tools.
Innovation Solution
A rollable drawer system with adjustable wheels that can be raised or lowered, allowing the system to be securely positioned on a countertop when not in use and easily rolled when needed, enabling users to access tools without obstructing the mixing machine's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the drawer system is designed to be stacked under a cabinet with a mixing machine, then storage space utilization is improved, but the user cannot easily access tools without removing the mixing machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the drawer system mobile through the addition of wheels. The drawer can be dynamically moved between a stored position under the cabinet and an accessible position in front of the cabinet. This allows the system to transition from a static stacked configuration to a mobile configuration, enabling easy tool access without removing the mixing machine.
2Ease of operation
If the drawer system includes wheels for mobility, then ease of movement is improved, but the system becomes unstable when stacked under the cabinet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a retractable wheel mechanism that allows the wheels to be extended when mobility is needed and retracted when stacking stability is required. This dynamic adjustment of the wheel position enables the system to be stable in the stacked configuration while maintaining mobility when accessed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the position parameter of the wheels. The wheels can be repositioned between an extended state (for mobility) and a retracted state (for stable stacking). This change in the positional parameter allows the system to adapt its characteristics based on the operational requirement.
3Volume of moving object
If the drawer system is made compact for stacking, then storage efficiency is improved, but the drawer cannot be easily pulled out for tool access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the drawer mobile on wheels, allowing it to be rolled out from the compact stacked position to an accessible position in front of the cabinet. This dynamic mobility solution enables the drawer to maintain a compact form factor for efficient stacking while providing easy access when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a housing having first and second sides, a bottom surface, and a drawer disposed in the housing. Each of the first and second sides of the housing includes first and second wheels coupled to the housing, the first and second wheels having a first wheel position in which no portion of the first and second wheels is above the bottom surface of the housing and a second wheel position in which a portion of each of the first and second wheels is below the bottom surface of the housing. Each side also includes an arm coupled to the housing, the arm having a first arm position and a second arm position, wherein movement of the arm from the first arm position to the second arm position causes the first and second wheels to move from the first wheel position to the second wheel position.