Self-Opening Slide Assembly With Integrated Self-Closing Rails
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drawer opening and closing devices typically offer single-functionality, lacking the ability to automatically open and close simultaneously in response to applied forces.
Innovation Solution
A self-opening and self-closing slide assembly is designed with interconnected rails and resilient members that utilize a combination of guide grooves, protrusions, and springs to automatically open when pressed and close when pushed inward, allowing for synchronized movement of the rails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional single-function opening or closing device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot perform both self-opening and self-closing functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate functions (self-opening and self-closing) into a single integrated device. The resilient members and guide grooves work together to provide both pushing-to-open and pulling-to-close capabilities, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide assembly is designed as a universal mechanism that can perform multiple functions: it can automatically open when pushed, automatically close when pulled, and maintain stable retracted or extended positions. The same structural components serve multiple purposes throughout the operation cycle.
2Extent of automation
If resilient members are added to achieve self-opening and self-closing, then the automatic opening and closing function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient members are configured to automatically engage with the guide grooves without requiring external control systems. The mechanism self-regulates its opening and closing actions based on the applied forces and the pre-configured geometric constraints of the guide grooves and protrusions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions between different operational states (retracted, extended, opening, closing) dynamically based on the forces applied. The resilient members allow the system to adapt its behavior in real-time, providing automatic response to user input without rigid mechanical control.
3Stability of the object's composition
If guide grooves and protrusions are designed for synchronized movement, then the rails move synchronously, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide groove system is divided into multiple segments (first guide groove, second guide groove, third guide groove) that work in sequence. Each segment handles a specific portion of the movement, allowing for modular manufacturing and assembly while maintaining overall synchronization through the interconnected resilient members.
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 automatic opening and closing of the slide assembly by applying forces, enhancing functionality and user convenience by eliminating the need for manual operation in both directions.
Implementation Method 1
a first resilient member biased between the base and the push member... The first resilient member generates a force in a first direction and the force is applied to the push member
Implementation Method 2
a second resilient member located in the room of the base and contacting the second leg of the movable member... The second resilient member is compressed by the second leg and generates a force in a second direction
Implementation Method 3
The first spring is connected between the link and the connection unit... The second spring is connected between the synchronic member and the second rail
Data Source
AI summary
A self-opening and self-closing slide assembly includes a first rail, a second rail, a third rail, a movable unit, a hooking member and a contact member. The movable unit is installed to the first rail and includes a movable member, a first resilient member and a second resilient member. The second rail is installed between the first and third rails. The hooking member and the contact member are connected to the third rail. When the third rail is pushed, the hooking member is disengaged from the movable member. The second rail extends relative to the first rail by the force from the first resilient member. When the third rail is retracted relative to the first rail, the hooking member is connected to the movable member and the second resilient member applies a force the movable member to retract the third rail relative to the first rail.