Reversible Insert Plate for Refrigerator Flat and Recessed Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing insert plates for refrigerators and freezers require users to temporarily store a separate plate when switching from a flat to a recessed design, increasing effort and reducing the utilization of the appliance's functionality.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layer insert plate with a flat surface side and a depression side, allowing for easy conversion by turning, which can be used on both sides to accommodate bottles or similar items without the need for additional storage, featuring a snap connection for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a glass pane is replaced with a plate having at least one recess for holding bottles, then bottles can be securely held without rolling away, but the unused plate must be removed and stored separately, increasing user effort and reducing appliance functionality

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of securing bottlesVSAvoidfunctionality utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The insert plate is designed with two different surface configurations on opposite sides: one side with recesses for holding bottles and the other side flat for general product placement. This allows a single plate to serve multiple functions, eliminating the need to store separate plates and maximizing the utilization of the refrigerator's storage space and functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a multi-layer insert plate with snap connection is used, then the plate can be easily turned over to switch between flat and recessed surfaces, but the manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of switching surfacesVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The insert plate is divided into multiple layers, with each layer having a specific surface configuration (one layer with recesses, another layer flat). These layers are connected through snap connections, allowing them to be easily rotated relative to each other. This segmentation enables easy switching between different surface types while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The insert plate incorporates a dynamic element through its multi-layer construction with snap connections, allowing the plate to be actively rotated and reconfigured between different orientations. This dynamic design enables users to switch between flat and recessed surfaces as needed, transforming a static single-function plate into a flexible multi-function solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3128272B1Insert panel for a fridge and/or a freezer
Publication Date: 2021.06.16 LIEBHERR HAUSGERATE OCHSENHAUSEN GMBH
  • EP3128272B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3128272B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3128272B1 patent drawingFigure 5(a)~5(c)

AI summary

The present invention relates to an insert plate (1) for a refrigerator and/or freezer, which is designed to be placed in a refrigerator compartment of a refrigerator and/or freezer in order to arrange or place chilled goods on it. The insert plate (1) comprises a first, planar surface side (2) arranged on a flat side of the insert plate (1) for arranging or depositing refrigerated goods, and a second surface side (3), which is opposite the first surface side (2) and has at least a recess (4) is provided.