Whirlpool has patented a sliding and connecting system for securing a cabinet panel to a refrigerator door. The system includes rail elements and sliding elements with matching cross-sectional profiles for smooth sliding. This innovation allows for easy installation and removal of cabinet panels on appliance doors. GlobalData’s report on Whirlpool gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Whirlpool, Smart home appliances was a key innovation area identified from patents. Whirlpool's grant share as of February 2024 was 70%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Sliding system for securing cabinet panel to refrigerator door

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Whirlpool Corp

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11927385B2) discloses a sliding and connecting system designed to securely attach a cabinet panel to a refrigerator door. The system comprises two sliding and connecting devices, each with a rail element and a sliding element. The first sliding element is fastened to the horizontal edge of the refrigerator door, while the second sliding element is attached to the vertical side edge. The rail elements on both devices are configured to be fastened to the cabinet panel, allowing for smooth sliding and secure connection between the panel and the refrigerator door.

Furthermore, the patent details the specific design elements of the sliding and connecting system, including C-shaped channels, T-shaped cross-sectional profiles, and flat portions with hidden fasteners. The interchangeable sliding elements are identical in design, ensuring ease of installation and maintenance. The system's innovative approach to securing cabinet panels to appliance doors offers a practical and efficient solution for users looking to customize their refrigerators while maintaining a sleek and seamless appearance.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.