Method of forming a one-piece frame for a cantilevered refrigerator shelf
US7401489B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jul 22, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB21D35/00
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A one-piece frame for a refrigerator shelf is produced from a planar blank having first and second side members that extend at an angle from a central cross member. The side members are folded along bend zones located between each of the first and second side members and the cross member such that, once folded, the first and second side members extend outward from the cross member forming a three-sided frame. At this point, edge portions of the first and second side members are folded along additional bend zones to form upper flanges. Preferably, an upper edge portion of the cross member is folded along still another bend zone to form a hook element. The hook element is designed to engage with a shelf support member provided in the refrigerated compartment such that the shelf frame is supported in a cantilevered manner.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.