US20140265798A1

US20140265798A1 - Direct drive rack & pinion lift mechanism for refrigerated storage bin

Info

Publication number: US20140265798A1
Application number: US13/827,342
Authority: US
Inventors: Russell Watts
Original assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
Current assignee: Electrolux Home Products Inc
Priority date: 2013-03-14
Filing date: 2013-03-14
Publication date: 2014-09-18
Also published as: WO2014150454A1; AU2014237172A1

Abstract

A refrigerator is provided including a refrigerator compartment having a bin door. A storage bin is positioned within the refrigerator compartment. A lift mechanism is positioned within the refrigerator compartment. The lift mechanism includes a lifting device that supports the storage bin. The lifting mechanism further includes a gear system that assists in raising and lowering the storage bin. The gear system includes a motor and one or more gears. The motor rotates the one or more gears, causing the one or more gears to apply a vertical force to the storage bin. This vertical force raises and lowers the storage bin.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to refrigerators, and more particularly, to refrigerators with a lift mechanism for lifting a storage bin.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional refrigerators have been designed with two refrigerator compartments positioned in various ways. For example, it is known to provide one refrigerator compartment above another refrigerator compartment. A lower storage compartment can include a storage bin.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some example aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. Moreover, this summary is not intended to identify critical elements of the invention nor delineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of the summary is to present some concepts in simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
In accordance with one aspect, a refrigerator is provided comprising a refrigerator compartment, a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment, and a lift mechanism positioned within the refrigerator compartment. The lift mechanism includes a lifting device configured to support the storage bin, a guide track configured to be operatively attached to the lifting device, and a gear engaging the guide track, wherein rotation of the gear is configured to move the storage bin.
In accordance with another aspect, a refrigerator is provided comprising a refrigerator compartment including a bin door, a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment, a lift mechanism positioned within the refrigerator compartment. The lift mechanism includes a guide track, a gear engaging the guide track and a drive unit coupled to the gear, wherein movement of the gear is configured to raise and lower the storage bin. A control system is further provided operatively connected to the drive unit, wherein the control system is configured to selectively control raising and lowering of the storage bin.
In accordance with another aspect, a refrigerator is provided comprising a refrigerator compartment including a bin door, a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment, and a lift mechanism positioned within the refrigerator compartment. The lift mechanism includes a lifting device configured to support the storage bin, an attachment structure configured to be supported by the bin door, the lifting device configured to be movably supported by the attachment structure, and a gear system configured to move the storage bin along the attachment structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bottom-mount refrigerator freezer including a lower compartment;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a lift mechanism in the lower compartment;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the lift mechanism in the lower compartment in which a storage bin has been removed;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional front view of a bin support structure in the lower compartment;

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of the lift mechanism with the storage bin in a lowered position;

FIG. 6 is another side perspective view of the lift mechanism with the storage bin in a raised position;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the storage bin movement control system; and

FIG. 8 is a front view of a user interface for the storage bin movement control system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Example embodiments that incorporate one or more aspects of the present invention are described and illustrated in the drawings. These illustrated examples are not intended to be a limitation on the present invention. For example, one or more aspects of the present invention can be utilized in other embodiments and even other types of devices. Moreover, certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. Still further, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are employed for designating the same elements.
Referring to the example of FIG. 1, a refrigerator 10 is shown with two refrigerator compartments. The refrigerator 10 may include an upper compartment 14 and a lower compartment 12. The upper compartment 14 can include one or more refrigerator doors 16 that provide access to an interior portion of the upper compartment 14. While not shown in the example, the refrigerator 10 can also include a cooling system with a compressor, heat-exchange pipes, an expansion valve, refrigerant, etc. in order to cool the refrigerator compartments.
While FIG. 1 illustrates a two compartment refrigerator, the refrigerator 10 can also include a single compartment or more than two compartments. Moreover, if provided with two or more compartments, one or more compartments may by positioned above the other and/or laterally with respect to one another. Still further, one compartment may be located partially or entirely within another compartment. Similarly, either one or both compartments may be maintained at a temperature above or below freezing providing for two freezers, two refrigerators, or one freezer and one refrigerator. In the shown examples, the lower compartment 12 may be kept at a temperature below freezing, such that the lower compartment 12 is functionally a freezer compartment.
The refrigerator 10 can include a bin door 20 that covers the lower compartment 12. The bin door 20 can include a handle, or the like, to allow a user to open and close the bin door 20. The bin door 20 can be attached to and supported by a sliding mechanism. The sliding mechanism can include at least one slide, though, in the shown example, there are two slides 22. The slides 22 can extendably move the bin door 20 between an open position and closed position. Accordingly, the slides 22 can move the bin door 20 back and forth into and out of the lower compartment 12. The slides 22 can include a first slide and a second slide, such that each slide can be provided on one side of the bin door 20.
In one example, the slides 22 may include drawer slides having an inner rail 24 and an outer bracket 26. The inner rail 24 may be slidingly received within the outer bracket 26. The slides 22 may be attached to the bin door 20 and lower compartment 12 at opposing ends, such that the outer bracket 26 can be attached within the lower compartment 12 while the inner rail 24 can be attached to the bin door 20. It is to be understood, however, that various configurations of the slides 22 are envisioned, and the present example is not limited to the inner rail 24 and outer bracket 26. For instance, in another example, the outer bracket 26 could be slidingly received within the inner rail 24. As such, any suitable mechanism can be provided that functions by allowing the bin door 20 to slide into and out of the lower compartment 12.
The refrigerator 10 can further include a storage bin 18. The storage bin 18 can be positioned within the lower compartment 12 and can store items, such as food products, drinks, baskets, and the like within the lower compartment 12. The storage bin 18 can include a variety of different structures that function to hold items. For instance, in FIG. 1, the storage bin 18 is shown to be a substantially solid bin with few holes. In another example, shown in FIG. 2, the storage bin 18 can include a wire basket. The storage bin 18 may be positioned within the lower compartment 12 between the slides 22. Accordingly, when the bin door 20 is withdrawn into an open position as shown in FIG. 1, the storage bin 18 can move out of the lower compartment 12 along with the bin door 20 by the slides 22. Accordingly, when the bin door 20 is moved into the closed position, the slides 22 can slide the bin door closed such that the storage bin 18 moves into the lower compartment 12. With the slides 22 attached to the bin door at one end, the storage bin 18 can rest on the slides 22 and be readily removed.
The storage bin 18 may have various configurations to fit within the lower compartment 12. In one example, the storage bin 18 can have a generally rectangular box shape, open on the top to provide access to the storage area defined by the bin. The storage bin 18 may be formed of metal, plastic, or any other suitable material. The storage bin 18 may also include one or more lights 29 that illuminate the contents of the storage bin 18. The lights 29 can be mounted on the front side of the storage bin 18 to illuminate the storage bin 18 and its contents without being directly visible to the user. It is to be understood, however, that the lights 29 can be positioned on any, or all of the sides of the storage bin 18. For instance, the lights 29 can be positioned on a side and/or rear of the storage bin 18. Similarly, the lights 29 could be positioned on the bin door 20 or within the lower compartment 12.
Turning now to FIG. 2, a lift mechanism 32 can be provided. The lift mechanism 32 can assist in lifting the storage bin 18 from a lower position to an upper position and/or from an upper position back to a lower position. The distance of travel between the lower and upper positions may vary for different refrigerator designs. For example, the distance of travel may be from about 5 to 15 inches, or from about 8 to 10 inches. The lift mechanism 32 may rapidly move the storage bin 18 between the lower and upper positions and vice versa. For example, the lift mechanism 32 may move between the lower position and the upper position in less than 10 seconds, or in less than 5 seconds. As will be discussed below, lifting or lowering of the storage bin 18 by the lift mechanism 32 may occur automatically upon withdrawing or replacing the storage bin 18 from the lower compartment 12, or it may occur when a signal is provided by the user to raise or lower the storage bin 18. Raising the storage bin 18 may provide easier access to an interior portion of the storage bin 18.
The lift mechanism 32 can include a bin mounting structure 34. The bin mounting structure 34 can include a substantially planar metal surface provided on a rear portion of the bin door 20. The bin mounting structure 34 can be attached to the bin door 20, such that the bin mounting structure 34 moves with the bin door 20 into and out of the lower compartment 12. Alternatively, the bin mounting structure 34 can be included as part of the bin door 20, such that a front surface of the bin mounting structure 34 constitutes the front face of the bin door 20. As will be described below, the bin mounting structure 34 can support a variety of structures.
The lift mechanism 32 can further include a lifting device 36. The lifting device 36 can be provided to raise and lower the storage bin 18. The lifting device 36 can extend in a direction parallel to a surface of the bin mounting structure 34 within the lower compartment 12. The lifting device 36 is shown as a substantially planar structure with multiple cutouts, however, a number of structures are contemplated. For instance, the lifting device 36 could include a substantially planar structure without any cutouts. Similarly, the lifting device 36 could take a number of shapes and sizes, and is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 2. The lifting device 36 can be spaced a distance apart from the bin mounting structure 34, such that a variety of structures can be positioned between the lifting device 36 and the bin mounting structure 34.
The lifting device 36 can include one or more gripping structures 39. The gripping structures 39 are shown to be hooks, though different types of structures are contemplated. The gripping structures 39 can protrude from the lifting device 36 towards the storage bin 18. The gripping structures 39 can be formed integrally with the lifting device 36 or, in the alternative, can be attached separately to the lifting device 36. The gripping structures 39 can removably engage the storage bin 18 in a number of ways. For instance, in the shown example, the gripping structures 39 can engage and grip wires of the storage bin 18. In further examples, however, the gripping structures 39 can attach to the storage bin 18 by a snap fit means, by a nut and bolt attachment, by a gripping attachment, or the like. Similarly, the gripping structures 39 can attach to the storage bin 18 at a variety of locations. In the shown example, the gripping structures 39 attach to a top front portion of the storage bin 18. In further examples, however, the gripping structures 39 could be attached at the top, bottom, center, sides, etc. of the storage bin 18. Accordingly, as the lifting device 36 moves, the gripping structures 39 can correspondingly grip the storage bin 18 and cause the storage bin 18 to move as well. While the shown example includes four gripping structures 39, it is to be understood that more than four or fewer than four gripping structures are contemplated.
The lifting device 36 can further include one or more connecting portions 40. The connecting portions 40 can movably attach the lifting device 36 to the bin mounting structure 34 and bin door 20. The connecting portions 40 can be positioned at opposing side edges of the lifting device 36 and can extend vertically along the opposing side edges. The shown example of FIG. 2 includes two connecting portions that are each substantially L-shaped portions that project away from the storage bin 18 and outwardly away from the lifting device 36. As will be described in more detail below, each of the connecting portions 40 can movably attach the storage bin 18 to the bin mounting structure 34.
Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the lift mechanism 32 can further include a first attachment structure 49. The first attachment structure 49 can be attached to the bin mounting structure 34. The first attachment structure 49 can support the lifting device 36. The first attachment structure 49 can include one or more support brackets 50. In the shown example, two support brackets are included; however, more than two support brackets are contemplated. The support brackets 50 can be attached to the bin mounting structure 34 in a number of ways. For instance, a center portion of the support brackets 50 can be attached by a nut and bolt attachment, a snap fit means attachment, an adhesive attachment, etc. The support brackets 50 can be positioned on opposing sides of the bin mounting structure 34 such that a gap extends between the support brackets 50.
The support brackets 50 can each include two outwardly projecting walls 53 extending from the support brackets 50. The outwardly projecting walls 53 can be formed integrally as part of the support brackets 50 or, in the alternative, can be attached to the support brackets 50 as separate structures. The outwardly projecting walls 53 are triangularly shaped in the shown examples; however a number of sizes and shapes are contemplated. The outwardly projecting walls 53 can be spaced apart to define a recess 57 extending between the outwardly projecting walls 53 within the support brackets 50. The recess 57 can be wide enough to accommodate a number of different structures.
Each of the outwardly projecting walls 53 of the support brackets 50 can include one or more openings. As shown in FIG. 3, the outwardly projecting walls 53 can include an opening 52. The opening 52 can extend completely through the outwardly projecting walls 53 to the recess. The opening 52 can define a path through which screws, rods, or the like can pass through. Each of the outwardly projecting walls 53 of the support brackets 50 can further include a second opening 56. The second opening 56 can extend completely through the outwardly projecting walls 53 to the recess 57.
The lift mechanism 32 can further include one or more guiding structures 55. One guiding structure 55 can be provided for each support bracket 50. The guiding structure 55 can be attached to the support bracket through the second opening 56. As such, the second opening 56 can define a path through which a guiding structure 55 can be attached. The guiding structure 55 is shown to include a wheel in FIG. 3, though a variety of structures can be included. The guiding structure 55 can be spaced a distance from the center portion of the support brackets 50. As such, a gap can be provided between the center portion and the guiding structure 55. As will be explained in more detail below, the guiding structure 55 can assist in attaching the lifting device 36 to the bin mounting structure 34.
The guiding structure 55 can be attached to the second opening 56 in a number of ways. In one example, the guiding structure 55 can be attached by a shaft passing through the guiding structure 55 and attaching to the second opening 56. In such an example, the guiding structure 55 could be movable, such as rotatable, with respect to the shaft and/or with respect to the outwardly projecting wall 53. It is to be understood, however, that a variety of attachment means are contemplated to allow the guiding structure 55 to rotatably attach to the second opening 56. Furthermore, in the shown example, the guiding structure 55 can be rotatably attached to the outwardly projecting walls 53. Specifically, the guiding structure 55 can be rotatably attached to an inner portion of the outwardly projecting wall 53, such that the guiding structure 55 is positioned within the recess 57.
The attachment of the lifting device 36 to the support brackets 50 can now be explained. As described above, the lifting device 36 can include the connecting portions 40 (shown in FIG. 2) positioned at opposing sides of the lifting device 36. Each of the connecting portions 40 can be positioned within the recess 57 of the support brackets 50. Specifically, the connecting portions 40 can be positioned between the guiding structure 55 and a center portion of the support brackets 50. As such, the connecting portions 40 can be in contact with and in engagement with the guiding structures 55. The guiding structures 55 can bias the connecting portions 40 towards the bin mounting structure 34.
The guiding structures 55 can rotate with respect to the support brackets 50. Accordingly, as the guiding structures 55 rotate, the guiding structures 55 can contact the connecting portions 40. The guiding structures 55 thus support the connecting portions 40 and lifting device 36 by allowing the connecting portions 40 to move upwardly and downwardly with the lifting device 36. The guiding structures 55 can be made of rubber, or the like, such that slippage between the guiding structures 55 and connecting portions 40 can be reduced. Accordingly, when the connecting portions 40 move, the guiding structures 55 can rotate. As will be described in more detail below, the lifting device 36 can be biased in a direction away from the bin mounting structure 34 and towards the guiding structure 55. As such, the connecting portions 40 will be pushed and held in contact with the guiding structures 55, thus reducing the risk of the connecting portions 40 from becoming disengaged.
Referring now to FIG. 3, the lift mechanism 32 is shown with the storage bin 18 removed. The lift mechanism 32 can include an attachment structure 65. The attachment structure 65 can further assist in attaching the lifting device 36 to the bin mounting structure 34. The attachment structure 65 can be operatively attached to both the lifting device 36 (FIG. 2) and to the bin mounting structure 34.
The attachment structure 65 can include a guide bracket 66. The guide bracket 66 can be attached to the bin mounting structure 34 and can extend from a lower portion of the bin mounting structure 34 to an upper portion of the bin mounting structure 34. The guide bracket 66 is shown to be an elongated, linear structure, however a number of variations are contemplated. For instance, the guide bracket 66 is shown to be positioned near the center of the bin mounting structure 34. However, the guide bracket 66 can be offset, such as to a side of the center. Similarly, the guide bracket 66 is shown to extend nearly completely from the bottom to the top of the bin mounting structure 34. In other examples, the guide bracket 66 could extend partially between the bottom and top of the bin mounting structure 34, such as ¾, ⅔ or halfway.
The guide bracket 66 can be attached to the bin mounting structure 34 by one or more fastening structures 69. In the shown example, the fastening structures 69 project outwardly from the sides of the guide bracket 66. In such an example, the fastening structures 69 could be attached to the bin mounting structure with a number of different structures, including screws, snap fit means, adhesives, etc. Similarly, the fastening structures 69 can be formed integrally with the guide bracket 66 or, in the alternative, could be attached separately to the guide bracket 66. In the shown example, eight fastening structures are provided, with four fastening structures positioned on each side of the guide bracket 66. However, more or fewer fastening structures are contemplated. Similarly, in further examples, the guide bracket 66 could be attached to the bin mounting structure 34 without the fastening structures 69 projecting from the sides of the guide bracket 66. For instance, in further examples, the fastening structures 69 could include one or more screws, snap fit means, adhesives, or the like to attach the guide bracket 66 to the bin mounting structure 34. In such an example, the screw could pass through the guide bracket 66 and through the bin mounting structure 34 to provide attachment.
The attachment structure 65 can further include a guide attachment 67. The guide attachment 67 can be attached to the guide bracket 66 or, in the alternative, could be formed integrally with the guide bracket 66. The guide attachment 67 can project outwardly from the guide bracket 66 towards the lifting device 36. In the shown example, the guide attachment 67 can form a substantially T-shaped structure. However, a variety of shapes of the guide attachment 67 are contemplated. The guide attachment 67 can define a substantially flat, planar face that faces the lifting device 36. The guide attachment 67 can be substantially similar in length to the guide bracket 66. As such, the guide attachment 67 can extend from a lower portion of the bin mounting structure 34 to an upper portion of the bin mounting structure 34. However, the guide attachment 67 could be longer or shorter in length, depending on the application. The guide attachment 67 can be attached to the guide bracket 66 in a number of ways. For instance, the guide attachment 67 could be attached to the guide bracket 66 by screws, a snap fit means, adhesives, etc.
The attachment structure 65 can further include one or more engaging brackets 68. In the shown example, there are three engaging brackets 68, however, more or fewer are contemplated. The engaging brackets 68 can be attached to the lifting device 36 (FIG. 2) on one side and to the guide attachment 67 on an opposite side. Specifically, the engaging brackets 68 can be attached to a rear surface of the lifting device 36 (shown in FIG. 4). The engaging brackets 68 can be fixedly attached to the lifting device 36, such that little or no motion will occur between the engaging brackets 68 and the lifting device 36. Thus, the engaging brackets 68 can move with respect to the guide attachment 67. Specifically, the engaging brackets 68 can slide along the guide attachment 67 in an upwards and downwards direction. The engaging brackets 68 can include a gripping portion that is shaped to grip the guide attachment 67. The gripping portion of each of the engaging brackets 68 can include a substantially C-shaped recess that is sized and shaped to receive and engage the guide attachment 67. Accordingly, the engagement between the engaging brackets 68 and the guide attachment 67 is designed to prevent the engaging brackets 68 from becoming disengaged from the guide attachment 67. The attachment between the engaging brackets 68 and the guide attachment 67 can have a reduced friction, such that the engaging brackets 68 can move along the guide attachment 67 with reduced resistance.
The lift mechanism 32 can further include a gear system 63. The gear system 63 can provide motion to the storage bin 18, including vertical or substantially vertical motion. The gear system 63 can be operatively attached either directly to the bin mounting structure 34, as shown in the drawings, or can be operatively attached to the bin mounting structure 34 through a door bracket 64.
The gear system 63 can include a first drive unit 28. The first drive unit 28 can provide a force to move the storage bin 18 between a raised position and a lowered position. In the shown example, the force can include a horizontal or substantially horizontal rotational output. To move the storage bin 18, the first drive unit 28 can include a motor 42. The motor 42 can include nearly any type of AC or DC motor that is known in the art, and is not limited to the example motor shown in the example. For instance, the motor 42 can include a servomotor, electrostatic motor, torque motor, stepper motor, etc. The motor 42 can include wires (not shown) for delivering power to the motor 42. Similarly, the speed and torque requirements for the motor 42 can be chosen to accommodate the predetermined weight of the storage bin 18 and lifting speed. The motor 42 can provide output in multiple directions, such as a first direction of rotation and a second direction of rotation, such that a lifting output and a lowering output can be provided.
The motor 42 can be attached to the rear of the bin mounting structure 34. The motor 42 can be attached in a number of ways. For instance, in the shown example, the motor 42 can be attached to the bin mounting structure 34 with a bracket 38. The bracket 38 can extend around the motor 42 and can be bolted to the bin mounting structure 34 to hold the motor 42 in place. However, other attachment means are contemplated, such as multiple brackets, a snap fit attachment, adhesives, the motor 42 fitting into a groove, aperture, or the like in the bin mounting structure 34, etc. Similarly, the motor 42 is shown to be positioned in a horizontal orientation on the left hand side of the bin mounting structure 34. However, the motor 42 can be positioned in a number of locations, such as on the right hand side, the lower right hand side, etc.
The motor 42 can be operatively attached to an intermediate gear structure 41 for providing output from the motor 42 to raise and lower the storage bin 18. The intermediate gear structure 41 can include an output gear 44 and an engaging gear 45. The output gear 44 can be attached to an output shaft of the motor 42. Rotational output from the motor 42 can be transmitted through the output shaft and to the output gear 44. Accordingly, the motor 42 can cause the output gear 44 to rotate. The output gear 44 can be formed integrally as part of the output shaft of the motor 42, or can be attached to the output shaft in a number of ways. For instance, the output gear 44 can be attached by a fixing device 59. The fixing device 59 can be attached to the output gear 44 with the output shaft extending through and attached to the fixing device 59. Additionally, the output gear 44 can include a varying range of gear radii and a varying size and number of gear teeth. Accordingly, the output gear 44 in the shown example is not intended to limit the size, shape, or structure of the output gear 44.
The intermediate gear structure 41 further includes the engaging gear 45. The engaging gear 45 can engage and mesh with the output gear 44. Specifically, the engaging gear 45 can include a plurality of gear teeth. The engaging gear 45 can be positioned in a sufficiently close proximity to the output gear 44 such that the teeth of the output gear 44 can engage with the teeth of the engaging gear 45. As such, rotation of the output gear 44 can cause the engaging gear 45 to rotate as well. As with the output gear 44, the engaging gear 45 is not limited to the structure in the shown example, and a varying range of gear radii and gear teeth size are contemplated. As such, the size of the output gear 44 and engaging gear 45 can be varied to change the gear ratio between the output gear 44 and the engaging gear 45. For instance, an output gear 44 with a larger radius can produce more rotations of the engaging gear 45 and vice versa. Similarly, an output gear 44 with a smaller radius can produce fewer rotations of the engaging gear 45.
The gear system 63 can further include a connection link 48. The connection link 48 can extend laterally across the bin mounting structure 34 from one side of the bin mounting structure 34 to an opposing side. The connection link 48 can be attached to the engaging gear 45 such as by passing through a center portion of the engaging gear 45. It is to be understood, however, that the connection link 48 can be attached to the engaging gear 45 in a number of ways. For instance, the connection link 48 can be attached to a fixing device 59 (shown in FIG. 4). As with the output gear 44, the engaging gear 45 can further include a fixing device 59 to attach the engaging gear 45 to the connection link 48. The fixing device 59 can be attached to the engaging gear 45 with the connection link 48 extending through and attached to the fixing device 59. The connection link 48 can be fixedly attached to the engaging gear 45 such that rotation of the engaging gear 45 can cause the connection link 48 to rotate as well. As such, when the output gear 44 rotates and causes the engaging gear 45 to rotate as well, the connection link 48 can also rotate due to the attachment between the connection link 48 and the engaging gear 45.
The gear system 63 can further include one or more motion gears 61. The motion gears 61 can be attached to the connection link 48 such that rotation of the connection link 48 causes the motion gears 61 to rotate. The motion gears 61 are shown to be attached at opposing ends of the connection link 48. However, the motion gears 61 can be attached at a variety of positions along the length of the connection link 48. The connection link 48 can be attached to the motion gears 61 such as by passing through a center portion of the motion gears 61. In further examples, a fixing device 59 can be provided to attach the connection link 48 to the motion gears 61. The fixing device 59 can be attached to the connection link 48 such that the fixing device 59 can rotate with the connection link 48. The fixing device 59 can be positioned adjacent to a side of each of the motion gears 61. Furthermore, the fixing device 59 can be attached to the motion gears 61. As such, the connection link 48 can be coupled to the fixing device 59 while extending through the motion gears 61. Therefore, as the connection link 48 rotates, the fixing device 59 will rotate as well, thus causing the motion gears 61 to rotate.
The attachment between the connection link 48 and the first attachment structure 49 can now be explained. The connection link 48 can extend between the support brackets 50 with opposing ends of the connection link 48 passing through the corresponding openings 52 in the first attachment structure 49. The engagement between the connection link 48 and opening 52 can be sized to allow the connection link 48 to rotate while still being held between opposing support brackets 50. In further examples, a securing device 54 can be provided to allow the connection link 48 to rotate within the openings 52 while remaining in engagement with the openings 52. The securing device 54 can be attached to the connection link 48 such that the securing device 54 can rotate with the connection link 48. The securing device 54 can be positioned adjacent to one side of one of the outwardly projecting walls 53. Accordingly, the securing device 54 can rotate with the connection link 48, but can closely abut the outwardly projecting wall 53 to prevent the connection link 48 from falling out of engagement with the openings 52.
Referring now to FIG. 4, the gear system 63 can further include one or more guide tracks 62. The guide tracks 62 can be attached to a rear portion of the lifting device 36 and can extend substantially vertically between a top and bottom of the lifting device 36. The guide tracks 62 can be attached in a number of ways, including by a snap fit means, adhesive, mechanical fasteners such as nuts, bolts, and screws, etc. The guide tracks 62 can include outwardly facing teeth, such that the guide tracks 62 are similar in shape and function to a rack gear. There are two guide tracks 62 in the shown example, but more or fewer than two are contemplated. The guide tracks 62 are shown to be positioned at opposing ends of the lifting device 36. It is to be understood, however, that the guide tracks 62 can be positioned at a variety of locations along the lifting device 36. For instance, the guide tracks 62 are configured to be attached to the storage bin 18. As such, the guide tracks 62 could be attached directly to the storage bin 18, such that the lifting device 36 is not included.
The guide tracks 62 can be positioned to engage the motion gears 61. The teeth of the guide tracks 62 can engage the teeth of the motion gears 61. Accordingly, as the motion gears 61 rotate, the motion gears 61 will engage the guide tracks 62. The rotation of the motion gears 61 can drive the guide tracks 62 to move upwards or downwards. The upward or downward motion of the guide tracks 62 can thus cause the lift mechanism 32 and storage bin 18 to raise and lower as well. The engagement between the motion gears 61 and the guide tracks 62 can provide force to the storage bin 18 in a direction away from the bin mounting structure 34. Specifically, the connecting portions 40 will be pushed into a close engagement with the guiding structures 55. This close engagement will ensure that the teeth of the motion gears 61 and the guide tracks 62 remain in engagement.
The bin door 20 can include the door bracket 64 (shown in FIGS. 4-6) attaching the slides 22 to the bin door 20. The door bracket 64 can be attached to a rear portion of the bin door 20 by one or more mounting brackets, though a variety of attachment structures are envisioned. The door bracket 64 can extend perpendicularly from the bin door 20. The door bracket 64 can include one or more holes and can be attached to the slides 22. The holes can allow for an attachment structure, such as screws, pins, bolts, and the like to attach the inner rail 24 to the attachment portion 37. Specifically, the inner rail 24 can be attached to the door bracket 64 such that withdrawal of the bin door 20 can cause the door bracket 64 to pull the slides 22 out from the lower compartment 12.
Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, there is shown the storage bin 18 in a lowered position in FIG. 5, and in a raised position in FIG. 6. In the shown examples, the bin door 20 is withdrawn from the lower compartment 12. When the bin door 20 is in the fully withdrawn position, the storage bin 18 can be exposed to the user, such that the user can access the contents of the storage bin 18.
The bin door 20 can include a cover 33 that can cover any components of the lift mechanism 32. The cover 33 can provide aesthetic appeal as well as covering up any moving parts and preventing some, or all, pinch points. The cover 33 can be removably or non-removably attached to either the bin door 20 or the bin mounting structure 34. Further, the cover 33 can partially or completely cover the bin mounting structure 34. The cover 33 can be attached such that a gap is formed between the cover 33 and the bin mounting structure 34. The gap can allow for any structures and/or necessary parts to be positioned between the cover 33 and the bin mounting structure 34. The cover 33 can include one or more openings, slots, or the like to allow the necessary parts to freely travel within the lower compartment 12. Furthermore, the cover 33 can surround the lift mechanism 32 by being attached to the bin door 20. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the lift mechanism 32 can be positioned within the bin door 20. The cover 33 can cover both the lift mechanism 32 and the bin mounting structure 34 with the lift mechanism 32 positioned in the gap between the cover 33 and the bin mounting structure 34.
The operation of the lift mechanism 32 can now be described. First, the raising of the storage bin 18 from the lowered position (FIG. 5) to the raised position (FIG. 6) will be described. When the motor 42 is activated, it can drive the output gear 44 to rotate in a first direction. The first direction can correlate to the raising of the storage bin 18. The output gear 44 can be in operative association with the engaging gear 45. Specifically, the teeth of the output gear 44 can engage the teeth of the engaging gear 45. When the output gear 44 rotates, the engaging gear 45 is driven to rotate. As the engaging gear 45 rotates, the connection link 48 will rotate. The connection link 48 is held at opposing ends by the support brackets 50. Specifically, opposing ends of the connection link 48 extend through the openings 52 of the support brackets 50 and are rotatably held. As the connection link 48 rotates, motion gears 61 can rotate as well. The teeth of the motion gears 61 are in engagement with teeth of the guide tracks 62, positioned on the lifting device 36. Accordingly, rotation of the motion gears 61 can drive the guide tracks 62 upwardly. This upward motion is transmitted from the guide tracks 62, to the lifting device 36, and to the storage bin 18.
Next, the storage bin 18 can be lowered from the raised position (FIG. 5) to the lowered position (FIG. 6). The lowering motion is similar to the raising motion, except for the gears will rotate in an opposite direction. To lower the storage bin 18, the motor 42 can be activated, driving the output gear 44 to rotate in a second direction. The second direction is opposite than the first direction, and can correlate to the lowering of the storage bin 18. The output gear 44 can cause the engaging gear 45 to rotate as well. As the engaging gear 45 rotates, the connection link 48 and, thus, the motion gears 61 rotate as well. Rotation of the motion gears 61 can cause the guide tracks 62 to move downwardly. Accordingly, this downward motion is transmitted from the guide tracks 62, to the lifting device 36, and to the storage bin 18.
Turning now to FIG. 7, the control of the movement of the storage bin 18 can be governed using a storage bin movement control system 99. A block diagram is shown of the storage bin movement control system 99. As shown, one example of the storage bin movement control system 99 includes an extension sensor 106 and a retraction sensor 108 that sense when the storage bin 18 has been extended or retracted by the lift mechanism 32, respectively. In the shown example, the extended position corresponds to the upper or raised position and the retracted position corresponds to the lower or retracted position.
The storage bin movement control system 99 can further include a controller 100 that is operatively connected to the first drive unit 28. When activated, either the extension sensor 106 or retraction sensor 108 can send a signal to the controller 100 to deactivate the first drive unit 28, thereby stopping the motion of the storage bin 18. More specifically, the extension sensor 106 is can send a signal to the controller 100 to deactivate the first drive unit 28 when the storage bin 18 is in a fully extended and raised position. Likewise, the retraction sensor 108 can send a signal to the controller 100 to deactivate the first drive unit 28 when the storage bin 18 is in a fully retracted and lowered position. The extension sensor 106 and the retraction sensor 108 may be limit switches that send a signal to the controller 100 upon contact with the storage bin 18 or the lift mechanism 32. Alternately, the sensors may be other types of sensors, such as optical sensors.
The user may activate the movement of storage bin 18 and the lift mechanism 32 in various different ways. For example, the movement of the storage bin 18 may be directly controlled by the user using switches. In the shown example, the storage bin movement control system 99 may include an extension switch 112 and a retraction switch 114. These switches may be positioned anywhere on the refrigerator 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, they may be positioned on the bin door 20. When the extension switch 112 is activated by the user, the controller 100 can send a signal to the first drive unit 28 to extend the lift mechanism 32 (e.g., move it upwards). Movement will then cease when the extension sensor 106 is activated. Likewise, when the retraction switch 114 is activated by the user, the controller 100 sends a signal to the first drive unit 28 to retract the lift mechanism 32 (e.g., move it downwards). In this case, movement will cease when the retraction sensor 108 is activated. Alternately, the extension switch 112 and retraction switch 114 can enable movement only when held down by the user. While the term “switch” has been used to describe the input device, it should be understood that the term, as used herein, encompasses a wide variety of other input devices, such as pushbuttons, levers, or the like.
As described above, the extension switch 112 and retraction switch 114 can be used to extend and/or retract the storage bin 18 in response to user input after the storage bin 18 has been manually withdrawn from the refrigerator compartment. To prevent operation of the lift mechanism 32 before the storage bin has cleared the refrigerator compartment, a position sensor 116 can be included. The position sensor 116 can detect when the storage bin 18 has been sufficiently withdrawn from the lower compartment 12 so that it can be raised without being blocked. For instance, the bin door 20 can be pulled out from the lower compartment 12. The bin door 20 can be either fully pulled out or near fully pulled out such that the storage bin 18 can freely be raised without striking the upper wall of the lower compartment 12. Accordingly, the position sensor 116 can signal to the controller 100 when the storage bin 18 is clear of obstructions and clear of the lower compartment 12, thereby enabling movement by the first drive unit 28. In further examples, the position sensor 116 may also be used to signal the first drive unit 28 to raise the storage bin 18 by extending the lift mechanism 32 automatically upon manual withdrawal of the storage bin 18. The position sensor 116 may also detect an attempt to close the bin door 20 and push the storage bin 18 back into the lower compartment 12 while the storage bin 18 is still in a raised position. In that example, the position sensor 116 can trigger the lowering of the storage bin 18 or provide a signal to the user that the storage bin 18 has not been lowered.
In further examples, the refrigerator 10 may also include a second drive unit 92 that moves the slides 22 and the storage bin 18. For example, the second drive unit 92 can automatically retract the bin door 20 from the lower compartment 12, thereby exposing the storage bin 18. In such an example, the movement of the storage bin 18 along the slides 22 can be power-driven. For example, the second drive unit 92 may be included together with a second drive mechanism (not shown) that provides force to move the storage bin 18 out of (i.e., opening) and/or into (i.e., closing) the lower compartment 12. This may be done by applying force to the inner rail 24 in the slides 22. The second drive unit 92 can provide for opening and then raising the storage bin 18, or lowering and then closing the storage bin 18 through the coordinated action of the first drive unit 28 and the second drive unit 92. The coordinated opening and lifting and/or closing and lowering movements can be initiated in a variety of ways. For example, it may be initiated using the extension switch 112 and retraction switch 114, or it may be triggered by a slight push by the user on the bin door 20, which will either lower and close the storage bin 18 or open and raise the storage bin 18, depending on the current position of the storage bin 18. Further, the second drive unit 92 can be activated by a button, lever, switch, or the like. The controller 100 can provide an output that governs the activation of the second drive unit 92.
Referring now to FIG. 7, a control interface 78 is shown that can be used with the storage bin movement control system 99. The storage bin 18 can be used in place of the extension switch 112 and retraction switch 114. In this example, the user can switch between an automatic mode, a manual mode, and an off mode, to enable either automatic or manual control of the lift mechanism 32. To switch between automatic control, manual control, and off mode, a three position control mode switch 80 may be provided that includes an off position 82, an automatic position 81, and a manual position 83. In the off position 82, the lift mechanism 32 will not be signaled to move the storage bin 18. In the manual position 83, the lift mechanism 32 can move the storage bin 18 up or down in response to the position of a two position manual control switch 85, which has an up position and a down position, and operates in the two different modes described for the extension switch 112 and retraction switch 114. In the automatic position, the lift mechanism 32 will move away from whichever position it currently occupies (i.e., up or down) until it has either extended (e.g., raised) or lowered (e.g., retracted) completely, as registered by the extension sensor 106 and retraction sensor 108.
As described above, the lift mechanism 32 can operate if enabled by the position sensor 116. The position sensor 116 can indicate whether the storage bin 18 can be raised without striking an upper wall of the lower compartment 12. The control interface 78 may also provide information regarding whether the lift mechanism 32 is enabled, and/or what the current position of the storage bin 18 is. For example, the control interface 78 may include indicators such as indicator lights. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the control interface 78 includes four indicator lights, which illuminate to indicate present status of the lift mechanism and its control system. The indicator lights include a lift enabled indicator 84, and lift disabled indicator 86, a lift extended indicator 88, and a lift retracted indicator 90. The lift enabled indicator 84 can indicate whether the bin door 20 is completely or near completely withdrawn from the lower compartment 12, such that the storage bin 18 can safely be raised without striking the upper wall of the lower compartment 12. The lift disabled indicator 86 can indicate that the bin door 20 needs to be withdrawn further from the lower compartment 12, such that the storage bin 18 can be safely raised. The lift extended indicator 88 can indicate that the storage bin 18 has reached a fully raised or “UP” position. The lift retracted indicator 90 can indicate that the storage bin 18 has reached a fully lowered or “DOWN” position. It is to be understood that other methods and structures of indicating the present status of the lift mechanism are also contemplated, such as audible beeps, audible warning signals, or the like.
It is to be understood that the storage bin movement control system 99 and the control interface 78 could be positioned nearly anywhere on the refrigerator 10. For instance, in the shown example of FIG. 1, the storage bin movement control system 99 and the control interface 78 are shown to be positioned on an upper portion of the bin door 20. However, it is to be understood that the storage bin movement control system 99 and the control interface 78 could be positioned on the refrigerator doors 16, on the front face of the bin door 20, etc.
The invention has been described with reference to the example embodiments described above. Modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. Examples embodiments incorporating one or more aspects of the invention are intended to include all such modifications and alterations.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A refrigerator, comprising:

a refrigerator compartment;

a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment; and

a lift mechanism positioned within the refrigerator compartment, the lift mechanism including:

a lifting device configured to support the storage bin;

a guide track configured to be operatively coupled to the lifting device; and

a gear engaging the guide track, wherein rotation of the gear is configured to move the storage bin.

2. The refrigerator of claim 1, further including a drive unit applying a rotational force to at least one intermediate gear.

3. The refrigerator of claim 2, wherein the at least one intermediate gear includes an output gear and an engaging gear.

4. The refrigerator of claim 3, wherein the guide track includes a first guide track and a second guide track.

5. The refrigerator of claim 4, wherein the gear includes a first gear and a second gear, further wherein the first gear engages the first guide track and the second gear engages the second guide track.

6. The refrigerator of claim 5, further including a connection link attached to the engaging gear, the first gear, and the second gear.

7. The refrigerator of claim 6, wherein rotation of the engaging gear rotates the connection link, further wherein rotation of the connection link rotates the first gear and the second gear.

8. The refrigerator of claim 1, further including a control system including a controller operatively connected to the drive unit.

9. The refrigerator of claim 8, wherein the control system includes an extension sensor configured to send a signal to the controller to deactivate the drive unit when the storage bin is in an extended position.

11. The refrigerator of claim 8, wherein the control system includes a retraction sensor configured to send a signal to the controller to deactivate the drive unit when the storage bin is in a retracted position.

12. The refrigerator of claim 8, wherein the control system includes a user interface with an extension switch and a retraction switch.

13. A refrigerator, comprising:

a refrigerator compartment including a bin door;

a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment;

a guide track;

a gear engaging the guide track; and

a drive unit coupled to the gear, wherein movement of the gear is configured to raise and lower the storage bin;

a control system operatively connected to the drive unit, wherein the control system is configured to selectively control raising and lowering of the storage bin.

14. The refrigerator of claim 13, wherein the lift mechanism is positioned within the bin door.

15. The refrigerator of claim 13, further including a lifting device configured to support the storage bin, wherein the guide track is attached to the lifting device.

16. A refrigerator, comprising:

a refrigerator compartment including a bin door;

a storage bin positioned within the refrigerator compartment; and

a lifting device configured to support the storage bin;

an attachment structure configured to be supported by the bin door, the lifting device configured to be movably supported by the attachment structure; and

a gear system configured to move the storage bin along the attachment structure.

17. The refrigerator of claim 16, wherein the attachment structure includes at least one guiding structure, further wherein the at least one guiding structure is configured to rotatably support the lifting device.

18. The refrigerator of claim 18, further including an attachment structure configured to attach the lifting device to the bin door.

19. The refrigerator of claim 18, wherein the attachment structure includes a guide bracket.

20. The refrigerator of claim 19, wherein the attachment structure includes an engaging bracket attached to the lifting device, further wherein the engaging bracket is configured to move with respect to the guide bracket.