Variable-Width Lifting Mechanism Using Telescopic Synchronization Rod
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting mechanisms for shelves are limited to specific widths, making them non-variable and requiring separate inventory for different widths, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A lifting mechanism with a pair of scissor mechanisms coupled via a variably adjustable synchronization rod, allowing the mechanism to be used with shelves of different widths, featuring telescopic rods with latching elements and a gear wheel for enhanced synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lifting mechanism is designed with a fixed-width synchronization rod, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it can only be used for shelves of a predetermined width
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization rod is designed with telescopic sections that can extend and retract, transforming it from a static fixed-length component to a dynamic adjustable-length component. This allows the rod to adapt its length to match different shelf widths while maintaining structural integrity and synchronization functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic synchronization rod employs nested tubular sections where one rod segment is inserted inside another. The inner rod can slide within the outer rod, allowing compact storage when retracted and extended configuration when needed, effectively reducing space requirements while providing variable length adjustment for different shelf widths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a telescopic synchronization rod with latching elements is used, then the adaptability to different shelf widths is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization rod is divided into multiple discrete telescopic sections that can independently slide relative to each other. Each section can be manufactured separately using standard machining processes, and then assembled together with simple connection elements, making the overall complex function achievable through modular, easily manufactured components.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching elements are designed to automatically engage with latching element receptacles at specific positions along the rod, providing self-locking functionality without requiring external actuators or complex control mechanisms. This automatic latching system simplifies the manufacturing process while ensuring reliable length adjustment and locking.
3Quantity of substance
If the synchronization rod length is variably adjustable, then inventory requirements are reduced, but the synchronization precision of scissor lever movement may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latching elements and latching element receptacles create a discrete positioning system where the rod can only be locked at specific predetermined positions. This provides inherent feedback on the rod's length configuration, ensuring that synchronization is maintained at each discrete position while still allowing variability across multiple positions, thus balancing precision with adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a lifting mechanism (5) for a shelf (2) for installing into a drawer or the body of a piece of furniture or domestic appliance, having a pair of mechanisms for lifting and lowering the shelf (2). A respective mechanism is arranged on each side of the shelf (2), and the two mechanisms are coupled together via a synchronization rod (5), said synchronization rod (5) having a variable length (LS). The invention additionally relates to a piece of furniture or domestic appliance and to a drawer comprising such a lifting mechanism.