Universal Drawer Extraction Mechanism for Compact Washer Dispensers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for automatic extraction of drawers from household appliances are bulky and expensive, requiring redesign for use with both slide-out and swing-out drawers, and lack compactness.
Innovation Solution
A compact device with a releasable locking mechanism, elastic means, braking means, and a toothed pinion that can be rotated to mesh with either a straight or curved rack, allowing for automatic extraction and retraction of drawers without altering the appliance, suitable for both slide-out and swing-out configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a device for automatic extraction of a drawer is designed to be compact and universally applicable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to accommodate both slide-out and swing-out configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The extracting device is designed with a universal pinion-rack mechanism that can function with both slide-out drawers (using a straight rack) and swing-out drawers (using a curved rack). The pinion's ability to mesh with different rack types through rotational adjustment of the support makes the device universally applicable to multiple drawer configurations without requiring separate designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed to be rotatable relative to the drawer, allowing the pinion to dynamically adjust its orientation. This dynamic adjustment enables the same pinion to engage with either a straight rack or a curved rack depending on the drawer type, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Volume of moving object
If the extracting device is made compact with integrated components, then volume is reduced, but ease of manufacture decreases due to the precision requirements of the push-push mechanism and pinion-rack engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic means and braking means are merged into a single integrated support structure, reducing the overall volume of the extracting device. The pinion is directly fitted to the support, eliminating the need for separate mounting components and simplifying the assembly process despite the compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-push mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the elastic means, which automatically engage and disengage the locking jaws without requiring external control mechanisms. This self-service feature reduces manufacturing complexity by eliminating the need for complex actuation systems while maintaining compact dimensions.
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 compact, cost-effective device that can be used universally for both slide-out and swing-out drawers, ensuring reliable operation with minimal bulk and no need for redesign, enhancing user convenience and appliance compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means for pushing the drawer into an extracted position... The elastic means exert a torque in a predetermined direction on the pinion
Implementation Method 2
braking means for opposing movement of the drawer
Data Source
AI summary
A device, for automatic extraction of a supply drawer from a household appliance, includes a releasable locking device for releasably locking the drawer; an elastic element for pushing the drawer into an extracted position; a braking element for opposing movement of the drawer; a support housing the elastic and the braking elements; and a toothed pinion fitted idly to the support, which is configured to leave at least one given circumferential portion of the teeth of the pinion exposed. The elastic element is to exert a torque in a given direction on the pinion, which is connected angularly integral with the braking element. The exposed circumferential portion of the pinion teeth meshes selectively with a straight or curved rack, formed externally on a wall of the drawer, by simply rotating the support with respect to the drawer, so that the same device can be used for both slide-out and swing-out drawers.