Slide rail assembly and returning device thereof
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slide rail assemblies with self-closing functions may not meet specific market needs due to limitations in usage environments, particularly in terms of reliability and durability, as they can fail to maintain the self-closing function under external forces or frequent use.
Innovation Solution
A slide rail assembly with a returning device comprising an elastic member and a movable member, where the movable member has blocking parts and connecting members that switch states to generate elastic force for self-closing, and a guiding feature to restore the self-closing function when it fails, ensuring the second rail returns to the retracted position using the elastic force, and is made of metal materials for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring-based closing device is used to provide self-closing function, then the movable member can return to retracted position, but the device fails under external forces or frequent use due to limited reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The closing device is divided into multiple functional components: a movable member with blocking parts, connecting members, and guiding features. This segmentation allows each component to perform specific functions independently, improving overall reliability by distributing mechanical stress across multiple elements rather than concentrating it in a single spring mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member can switch between different states (first state blocking the connecting member, second state allowing movement) based on operational conditions. This dynamic behavior enables the system to adapt to external forces and frequent use, maintaining self-closing functionality where a static spring-based system would fail.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional closing device with fixed path is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot meet specific market needs due to limitations of usage environment
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is designed to move between different positions relative to the blocking parts, allowing the device to adapt to various usage environments. The movable member dynamically switches between blocking and non-blocking states, enabling the system to handle different operational requirements without requiring complete structural redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The same movable member and blocking part mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls the connecting member's movement, provides state switching, and enables self-closing action. This multi-functionality allows a single device structure to meet diverse market requirements across different usage environments.
3Reliability
If the movable member blocks the connecting member during extension, then the elastic force is accumulated, but the system requires complete retraction to restore function after failure
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding feature automatically guides the second connecting member to contact the first blocking part when the movable member is in the first state, enabling the system to self-restore the self-closing function without requiring complete retraction. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual intervention and reduces restoration time.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable member is positioned in advance to block the connecting member before extension occurs, pre-loading the elastic force. The guiding feature is pre-configured to automatically restore the blocking position during retraction, ensuring the system is ready to maintain self-closing function without requiring full retraction cycles.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If metal materials are used for durability, then the service life is extended, but the weight of the components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple components (movable member, connecting members, blocking parts) that can be independently optimized. This allows selective use of metal materials only in critical wear areas while using lighter materials elsewhere, extending service life without proportionally increasing overall weight.
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 solution provides a reliable and durable self-closing function that can restore itself without requiring complete retraction, preventing finger pinch and maintaining functionality in high-temperature environments, with a longer service life compared to spring-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic member is configured to generate an elastic force in response to the movable member being located at the second predetermined position
Implementation Method 2
the second rail is configured to be driven to move to the retracted position by the elastic force of the elastic member
Data Source
AI summary
A slide rail assembly includes a first rail, a second rail, a returning device and a connecting device. The returning device is arranged on the first rail and includes an elastic member and a movable member. The connecting device is arranged on the second rail and includes a first connecting member and a second connecting member. During a process of the second rail being moved relative to the first rail from an extended position along a retracting direction, the second connecting member is configured to contact the movable member, in order to drive the movable member to switch from a second state to a first state. Accordingly, the second rail is configured to be driven to move to a retracted position by an elastic force of the elastic member.