Rotatable and Slidable Refrigerator Shelving for Space Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional refrigerator shelving systems lack flexibility and space optimization, as they do not efficiently accommodate items of varying heights, leading to inefficient use of storage space and potential instability of shelves during transitions between operational and stowed positions.

Innovation Solution

A shelving system comprising a first shelf and a second shelf, with opposing suspenders that allow the second shelf to rotate and slide relative to the first shelf, enabling it to transition between operational and stowed positions, thereby optimizing storage space and accommodating items of different heights.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional fixed shelving systems are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but storage space utilization and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage space optimizationVSAvoidshelving system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shelving system employs dynamic suspenders that can rotate and slide to transition between operational and stowed positions. The rotatable connection at the first suspender and slidable connection at the second suspender enable the shelf to dynamically adjust its position and orientation, transforming from a fixed structure to an adaptable one that optimizes storage space while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized mechanical joints.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The shelving system is divided into modular components: the first shelf, multiple suspenders with different connection types, and the second shelf. This segmentation allows each component to perform specific functions (support, rotation, sliding) and enables flexible reconfiguration. The modular design achieves adaptability without requiring an entirely complex integrated structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If shelves are made rigid and fixed, then structural stability is ensured, but flexibility in accommodating items of varying heights is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of varying item heightsVSAvoidshelf stability during transition

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The suspenders incorporate rotational and sliding joints that provide controlled movement while maintaining structural integrity. The rotatable connection allows the shelf to pivot smoothly, and the slidable connection enables linear adjustment, creating a dynamic system that adapts to different storage needs while保持稳定 through well-defined mechanical constraints.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical design of the rotatable and slidable connections includes features that guide and cushion the transition motion. These pre-designed movement paths ensure stable transitions by distributing forces evenly and preventing sudden jerks or instabilities during the transformation from operational to stowed positions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the second shelf is made fully rotatable, then storage flexibility is improved, but potential instability during rotation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshelf position adjustmentVSAvoidshelf stability during rotation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The rotation capability is segmented into two independent connection points: the first suspender provides rotatable connection while the second suspender provides slidable connection. This segmentation distributes the rotational movement across controlled joints rather than allowing uncontrolled full rotation, maintaining stability through defined mechanical constraints at each connection point.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The slidable connection at the second suspender acts as an intermediary that controls and guides the rotation movement. By allowing linear sliding motion in conjunction with the rotatable first suspender, it mediates the rotational transformation in a controlled manner, preventing instability while achieving the desired position adjustment flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11460241B1Refrigerator and shelving system for a refrigerator

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 WHIRLPOOL CORP

AI summary

A refrigerator shelving system includes a first shelf, a first set of suspenders, a second set of suspenders, and a second shelf. The second shelf is rotatably secured to the second set of suspenders and slidably secured to the second set of suspenders. The second set of suspenders is rotatably secured to the first shelf. A back end of the second shelf is configured to rotate relative to the first set of suspenders, the second set of suspenders is configured to rotate relative to the first shelf, and a front end of the second shelf is configured to slide relative to the second set of suspenders during rotation of the second set of suspenders in order to transition the second shelf between an operational position and a stowed position.