Sink Base Drawer Snap-In Assembly for Stable Recessed Layout

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drawer assembly methods for sink base cabinets are complex and require twice the number of frames, panels, and rear wall elements, making them labor-intensive and time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

The use of snap-in connections between rear wall elements and side elements, along with elastic retaining means and latching connections, simplifies the assembly process while providing stability, and the drawer bottom is divided into segments connected via snap-in connections for space-saving and stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If traditional drawer assembly methods are used with multiple frames and panels, then the drawer structure is stable, but the assembly effort and time are doubled

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrawer stabilityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The drawer is divided into modular components (drawer body, recess assembly with panel element and side elements, front panel assembly) that can be assembled independently and then connected through snap-in connections, reducing overall assembly time while maintaining structural stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple structural elements (rear wall elements, side elements, panel element) are merged into integrated assemblies that connect to the drawer body through single snap-in connections, eliminating the need for multiple separate fastening operations and reducing assembly steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple frames and panels are used to create the drawer with recess, then the drawer structure is complete and functional, but the number of parts to be assembled increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrawer functionalityVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drawer is segmented into functional modules (drawer body, recess assembly, front panel assembly) that can be designed, manufactured, and assembled independently, maintaining full functionality while reducing assembly complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The snap-in connection system serves multiple functions: it connects various components (rear wall elements, side elements, panel element, drawer bottom) and provides both structural support and structural definition, eliminating the need for separate fastening components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach significantly reduces assembly time and effort while maintaining drawer stability, allowing for quick and secure assembly of the drawer components.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic retaining means, which is arranged in a receptacle, and a recess in which the retaining means can engage

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

the latching connection comprises a latching groove and a corresponding web as well as an elastic retaining means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP3183998B1Drawer for a sink base unit
Publication Date: 2018.08.22 VAN HOECKE NV
  • EP3183998B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3183998B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2d
  • EP3183998B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3c

AI summary

Drawer (1) for a sink base unit, comprising a front panel (2), two drawer side walls (3, 4) and a drawer base (5) which has a recess (6) open to the rear opposite the front panel (2), the recess (6) is delimited by a panel element (7) and two side elements (8, 9), and the side elements (8, 9) are connected to the drawer side walls (3, 4) via rear wall elements (10, 11), the rear wall elements (10) are connected to the side elements (8, 9) and the drawer side walls (3, 4) via snap-in connections (12, 13, 26, 27, 28).