Accessibility of storage cabinets
US12419413B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 1, 2021 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2900/20
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A drive apparatus fits into a storage cabinet with a storage unit with shelves and is suited for mounting on a wall above a worktop. A push/pull mechanism pushes the storage unit outwardly from the housing, and a separate vertical drive mechanism then lowers the storage unit to a level beneath the housing, where it is accessible. Because the storage unit is initially pushed outwardly to a to extended position, when it is lowered it does not impact on items directly underneath the cabinet. Hence the cabinet may be fitted in a conventional arrangement. A door drive mechanism allows automated opening and closing of the doors, but if they are opened manually the drive mechanism remains disengaged. Upon automated door closure the door mechanism disengages when nearly closed due to the mutual physical arrangement of the mechanism components, thereby allowing the door's own soft hinge to complete the door closure, thereby avoiding pinch points and allowing the next door opening to be either manual or automated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.