Shelf height adjusting flippers having an integrated electrical contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional refrigerators have cumbersome and difficult-to-clean shelf support systems that are not easily adjustable, making it hard to modify shelf heights and ensuring electrical connectivity for appliances within the refrigerator.
Innovation Solution
A height-adjustable shelving system utilizing rotatable flippers that can be manually rotated between multiple support positions, allowing for adjustable shelf heights and ensuring electrical connectivity through an integrated electrical contact system, eliminating the need for additional fasteners or tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional ladder-type shelf support systems are used, then structural stability is maintained, but adjustability and ease of cleaning are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into multiple discrete flipper units, each capable of independent rotation to different positions. Each flipper can be independently adjusted to provide multiple shelf height options, transforming a complex continuous support structure into simpler modular segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The flipper support system replaces static ladder-type supports with dynamic rotatable flippers that can change position. Each flipper rotates about a stud to achieve different support positions, allowing the system to adapt to various shelf height requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If conventional shelf support systems are used, then structural support is provided, but electrical connectivity for appliances is difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contact function is merged directly into the flipper support structure. Each flipper includes an integrated electrical contact that automatically engages with the shelf's electrical receiver when the shelf is placed on the flipper, ensuring reliable electrical connectivity without adding separate wiring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The flipper structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the shelf, enables height adjustment through rotation, and ensures electrical connectivity through the integrated contact. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate support and electrical connection systems.
3Ease of operation
If rotatable flippers with integrated electrical contacts are used, then adjustability and electrical connectivity are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into standardized flipper units that can be manufactured independently using consistent processes. Each flipper is a discrete component with uniform dimensions and features, allowing for efficient batch production and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The flipper design integrates multiple functions (mechanical support, height adjustment, electrical connection) into a single universal component. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the enhanced functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A height-adjustable shelving system for an appliance includes an appliance having a plurality of walls that define an interior cavity. The appliance has an electrical system that extends into at least one of the walls of the appliance. A shelf is selectively disposed within the cavity and includes a lighting fixture. A shelf support system in communication with the electrical system includes at least one rotatable body operable between a plurality of support positions, the at least one rotatable body removably receiving and supporting the shelf, wherein each of the support positions of the rotatable body corresponds to a different shelf height. The removable engagement between the shelf and the rotatable body in any of the plurality of support positions places the lighting fixture in communication with the electrical system.