Shelf Fitting With Spring-Loaded Slider for Tool-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shelf fittings are not simple in construction and require tools for installation, making them complex and visible after assembly.
Innovation Solution
A shelf fitting with a slider mechanism that can be moved rearward against a restoring force, featuring a gear rack and gear for manual rotation, allowing tool-free installation and virtually invisible assembly, using a compression spring for the restoring force and a second installation body with a keyhole and slotted opening for engaging the slider's undercut.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing shelf fittings are used, then connection between furniture parts is achieved, but the construction is complex and tools are required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf fitting enables tool-free installation through a spring-loaded slider mechanism that automatically engages with the furniture part. The restoring force from the compression spring allows the slider to be pushed into the mounted position without requiring external tools, making the system self-servicing during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting is divided into distinct functional components: a first installation body with a slider mechanism, a second installation body with engagement features, and a compression spring. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall construction while maintaining ease of installation.
2Ease of operation
If existing shelf fittings are used, then connection between furniture parts is achieved, but the fitting is visible after assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The slider is designed to be received within the first installation body when in the mounted position, with the front slider end protruding only when disengaged. This nesting arrangement allows the fitting to be virtually invisible when properly installed, as the slider retracts into the installation body housing.
3Reliability
If the slider is moved to rear end position, then secure connection is achieved, but force is required against restoring force
Solution Approach 1:
The slider mechanism incorporates a compression spring that provides a restoring force, creating a dynamic system where the slider can be easily moved between positions. The spring allows the slider to be pushed into the mounted position during installation and can be manually rotated or pushed back during disassembly, providing both secure connection and ease of operation.
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 tool-free, invisible installation and easy disassembly of shelf fittings, with the slider being latched in the rear position for secure connection and easy removal, maintaining a flush finish on furniture parts.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring (13), which is supported both on the first installation body (11) and on the slider (12)
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting for connecting two parts includes a first and second fitting part. The first fitting part has a first installation body, with a slider, movably guided against a restoring force from a front starting position. At least one front slider end has an undercut protruding out of the first installation body toward the front. The second fitting part has a second installation body for mounting on a second part to be connected. The second installation body has a keyhole with an insertion opening for inserting the front slider end and with a slotted opening, which adjoins the insertion opening and which is constricted in comparison with the insertion opening, for engaging behind the undercut of the front slider end. The slider has a gear rack and a gear rotatably mounted in the first installation body and meshes with the gear rack and can be manually rotated.