Three-Stage Slide Locating Structure for Synchronous Rail Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional slide assemblies with three-stage slides face challenges in synchronously extending and retracting middle and inner rails while maintaining efficient use of space and reducing manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A locating structure incorporating a linking member, a locating member, and an elastic member, with specific protruding walls and slopes, allows the middle and inner rails to extend synchronously and retract sequentially into an outer rail, utilizing a pivoting mechanism and elastic tags for efficient operation within a limited space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional three-stage slide assembly is used with separate locating systems for middle rail and inner rail, then the locating function is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locating functions for both the middle rail and inner rail into a single integrated locating structure. This locating structure includes a locating member with a first locating portion that engages with the middle rail and a second locating portion that engages with the inner rail, eliminating the need for separate locating systems and reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining reliable locating functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The locating structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it locates the middle rail relative to the outer rail, locates the inner rail relative to the middle rail, and provides synchronous extension for both rails. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall assembly
2Manufacturing precision
If independent locating structures are provided for middle rail and inner rail, then accurate locating is achieved, but the space requirement and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple locating functions into a single compact locating structure that occupies minimal space. The locating member combines both locating portions in one integrated component, reducing the overall footprint while maintaining precise locating capability for both rails
3Stability of the object's composition
If a synchronous sliding device is provided among inner, middle, and outer rails, then synchronous extension is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the synchronous sliding function with the locating function in a single integrated locating structure. The locating member's geometry and engagement with both rails inherently provide synchronous extension during the locating operation, eliminating the need for a separate synchronous sliding device
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 synchronous extension and retraction of middle and inner rails while optimizing space usage and reducing costs, enhancing the design for longer service life and economic benefits.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member to restrict the release end of the linking member and the fixation end of the locating member
Implementation Method 2
Both the linking member and the locating member are pivoted to the middle rail
Data Source
AI summary
A locating structure for a slide assembly operates in conjunction with a middle, an inner, and an outer rail with the inner rail sliding into the middle rail and the middle rail sliding in the outer rail and includes a linking member, a locating member and an elastic member. Both the linking member and the locating member are pivotally connected to the middle rail. A first protruding wall containing a blocking portion and a slope is disposed on the inner rail. A second protruding wall containing a retaining portion and a slope is disposed on the outer rail. The linking member includes a constraining end and a release end. The locating member includes a release end and a fixation end. The elastic member is fixed to the middle rail to hold against the release end of the linking member and the fixation end of the locating member.