Self-Opening Slide Assembly With Integrated Auto-Close Mechanism
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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 movable units, utilizing resilient members, guide grooves, and synchronic mechanisms to automatically adjust positions based on applied forces, enabling simultaneous opening and closing functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-function opening or closing device is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot simultaneously provide both self-opening and self-closing functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines self-opening and self-closing functions into a single integrated slide assembly. The first and second resilient members work together with the movable member to provide both opening and closing actions through a unified mechanical structure, eliminating the need for separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide assembly is designed as a universal mechanism that performs multiple functions: the resilient members can both push the drawer outward (opening) and pull it inward (closing) depending on the direction of force applied to the push block, making the device adaptable to dual operational modes.
2Extent of automation
If resilient members are used to provide opening and closing forces, then automatic operation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient members are pre-loaded and automatically activate when force is applied to the push block. The system serves itself by converting the applied force into automated opening or closing actions without requiring additional control mechanisms, sensors, or power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member dynamically shifts position based on the direction and magnitude of force applied to the push block, enabling the resilient members to alternately engage and disengage. This dynamic behavior allows a single mechanical structure to provide both opening and closing functions automatically.
3Ease of operation
If guide grooves and movable members are used to ensure smooth operation, then operational smoothness is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide mechanism is segmented into separate guide grooves in the rails and corresponding movable members. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standard machining processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while ensuring smooth relative movement between parts.
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
The slide assembly effectively automates the opening and closing of the rails by utilizing resilient members and guide mechanisms, ensuring smooth operation and efficient use of space, enhancing user convenience and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The first resilient member is 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
The second resilient member is located in the room of the base and contacts the second leg of the movable member. The second resilient member generates a force in a second direction.
Implementation Method 3
The first spring is connected between the link and the connection unit.
Implementation Method 4
The second spring is connected between the synchronic member and the second rail.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3~4
AI summary
A self-opening and self-closing slide assembly includes a first rail (10), a second rail (14), a third rail (18), a movable unit (50), a hooking member (148) and a contact member (152). The movable unit (50) is installed to the first rail (10) and includes a movable member (66), a first resilient member (62) and a second resilient member (68). The second rail (14) is installed between the first and third rails (10, 18). The hooking member (148) and the contact member (152) are connected to the third rail (18). When the third rail (18) is pushed, the hooking member (148) is disengaged from the movable member (66). The second rail (14) extends relative to the first rail (10) by the force from the first resilient member (62). When the third rail (18) is retracted relative to the first rail (10), the hooking member (148) is connected to the movable member (66) and the second resilient member (68) applies a force the movable member (66) to retract the third rail (18) relative to the first rail (10).