Patent Publication Number: US-2021164725-A1

Title: Refrigerator appliance and variable shelf assembly

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present subject matter relates generally to domestic appliances, and more particularly to a variable shelf assembly to adjust the height of a shelf in a refrigerator appliance. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Domestic appliances, such as refrigerator appliances, generally include a cabinet that defines an internal chamber. In the case of refrigerator appliances, a chilled chamber may be defined for receipt of food articles for storage. Refrigerator appliances can also include various storage components mounted within the chilled chamber and designed to facilitate storage of food items therein. Such storage components can include racks, bins, shelves, or drawers that receive food items and assist with organizing and arranging of such food items within the chilled chamber. 
     Some existing refrigerator appliances include one or more shelves for holding or supporting food items within the chilled chamber. The height or position of the shelf or shelves may be changed according to the needs of a user. For instance, a shelf may be removably supported on a bracket that is permanently fixed to the refrigerator. Multiple predetermined mounting heights may be defined on the bracket by slots that receive the shelf. In order to change the height of the shelf, the shelf must be removed from the bracket. Generally, this requires a user to pivot or lift the shelf relative to the bracket. Moreover, the shelf must be at least partially removed from the chilled chamber. 
     The steps required for adjusting the height of such existing systems can be undesirably complicated. For instance, any food items held or supported by the shelf must generally be removed before the shelf may be adjusted. If the food items are not first removed, a user risks spilling or dropping the items while the shelf is unsupported by the bracket. Even if all the food items are removed, properly aligning the shelf to the bracket may be difficult for some users. Furthermore, the shelf will have only a limited number of predetermined heights, as determined by the bracket. This, in turn, limits a user&#39;s options for configuring the shelf height, as well as the overall useable space within the chilled chamber. 
     Accordingly, an appliance with features for easily and reliably adjusting a shelf height within the appliance would be useful. In particular, a refrigerator appliance with features for easily varying the height of a shelf while mounted within a refrigerator appliance would be useful. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention. 
     In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance may include a cabinet, a liner, and a variable shelf assembly. The liner may be positioned within the cabinet. The liner may define a refrigerated chamber. The variable shelf assembly may be mounted within the refrigerated chamber. The variable shelf assembly may include a stationary hydraulic actuator set, a shelving bracket, a movable hydraulic actuator, and an actuator handle. The stationary hydraulic actuator set may include a first stationary actuator and a second stationary actuator in fluid parallel to the first stationary actuator. The first and second stationary actuators may be extendable between a shortened position and an elongated position. The shelving bracket may be slidably mounted in mechanical communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set to move along the vertical direction between a first extreme position and a second extreme position. The first extreme position may correspond to the shortened position and the second extreme position may correspond to the elongated position. The movable hydraulic actuator may be mounted to the shelving bracket to move therewith along the vertical direction. The movable hydraulic actuator may include an input cylinder in fluid communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set. The movable hydraulic actuator may further include an input piston slidable within the input cylinder between a retracted position and an extended position. The actuator handle may be movably attached to the shelving bracket. The actuator handle may be in mechanical communication with the movable hydraulic actuator to direct the input piston between the extended position and the retracted position. 
     In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a variable shelf assembly is provided. The variable shelf assembly may include a retainer bar, a stationary hydraulic actuator set, a shelving bracket, a movable hydraulic actuator, and an actuator handle. The stationary hydraulic actuator set may include a first stationary actuator and a second stationary actuator in fluid parallel to the first stationary actuator. The first and second stationary actuators may be extendable between a shortened position and an elongated position. The shelving bracket may be slidably mounted in mechanical communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set to move along a vertical direction between a first extreme position and a second extreme position. The first extreme position may correspond to the shortened position. The second extreme position may correspond to the elongated position. The movable hydraulic actuator may be mounted to the shelving bracket to move therewith along the vertical direction. The movable hydraulic actuator may include an input cylinder in fluid communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set. The movable hydraulic actuator may further include an input piston slidable within the input cylinder between a retracted position and an extended position. The actuator handle may be movably attached to the shelving bracket. The actuator handle may be in mechanical communication with the movable hydraulic actuator to direct the input piston between the extended position and the retracted position. 
     In yet another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a variable shelf assembly is provided. The variable shelf assembly may include a retainer bar, a stationary hydraulic actuator, a shelving bracket, a movable hydraulic actuator, and an actuator handle. The retainer bar may define a predetermined height index along a vertical direction. The stationary hydraulic actuator may be selectively mounted to the retainer bar at the predetermined height index. The stationary hydraulic actuator may be extendable between a shortened position and an elongated position. The shelving bracket may be slidably mounted in mechanical communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator to move along the vertical direction between a first extreme position and a second extreme position. The first extreme position may correspond to the shortened position and the second extreme position corresponding to the elongated position. The movable hydraulic actuator may be mounted to the shelving bracket to move therewith along the vertical direction. The movable hydraulic actuator may include an input cylinder in fluid communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator and an input piston slidable within the input cylinder between a retracted position and an extended position. The actuator handle may be movably attached to the shelving bracket. The actuator handle may be in mechanical communication with the movable hydraulic actuator to direct the input piston between the extended position and the retracted position. 
     These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures. 
         FIG. 1  provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2  provides a perspective view of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of  FIG. 1 , wherein refrigerator doors of the refrigerator appliance are in an open state to reveal a fresh food chamber of the refrigerator appliance. 
         FIG. 3  provides a front elevation view of a portion of the fresh food chamber of the exemplary refrigerator appliance of  FIG. 1 , including a variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  provides a bottom perspective view of the exemplary variable shelf assembly of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  provides a rear perspective view of the exemplary variable shelf assembly of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  provides a perspective view of a portion of a variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  provides a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary variable shelf assembly of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  provides a perspective view of a portion of the exemplary variable shelf assembly of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 9  provides a schematic view of a variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  provides a perspective view of a portion of a fresh food chamber and variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  provides a perspective view of a portion of a fresh food chamber and variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  provides a schematic view of a variable shelf assembly according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     As used herein, the term “or” is generally intended to be inclusive (i.e., “A or B” is intended to mean “A or B or both”). The terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative flow direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the flow direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the flow direction to which the fluid flows. 
     Generally, the present disclosure provides an appliance that has a variable shelf assembly. When assembled, the variable shelf assembly may be raised or lowered without being removed from the appliance. The variable shelf assembly may include a stationary hydraulic actuator set that is mounted within a refrigerator appliance to lower and raise a shelving bracket. In order to adjust the height of the shelving bracket, a user may engage an actuator handle that is attached to the shelving bracket. Thus, the actuator handle moves up and down with the shelving bracket. A movable hydraulic actuator that is also attached to the shelving bracket can be connected to both the actuator handle and the stationary hydraulic actuator set. During use, the movable hydraulic actuator can convert mechanical movement of the actuator handle into hydraulic movement that, in turn, drives extension of the stationary hydraulic actuator set. As the stationary hydraulic actuator set is extended, the shelving bracket may rise. 
     Turning now to the figures,  FIGS. 1 and 2 ,  FIG. 1  provides a perspective view of a refrigerator appliance  100  according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.  FIG. 2  provides a perspective view of refrigerator appliance  100  having multiple refrigerator doors  128  in the open state. As shown, refrigerator appliance  100  includes a housing or cabinet  120  that extends between a top  101  and a bottom  102  along a vertical direction V. Cabinet  120  also extends along a lateral direction L and a transverse direction T, each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T being mutually perpendicular to one another. In turn, vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T defines an orthogonal direction system. 
     Cabinet  120  includes a liner  121  that defines one or more chilled chambers for receipt of food items for storage. In particular, liner  121  defines a fresh food chamber  122  positioned at or adjacent top  101  of cabinet  120  and a freezer chamber  124  arranged at or adjacent bottom  102  of cabinet  120 . As such, refrigerator appliance  100  is generally referred to as a bottom mount refrigerator. It is recognized, however, that the benefits of the present disclosure apply to other types and styles of appliances such as (e.g., a top mount refrigerator appliance, a side-by-side style refrigerator appliance, or a range appliance). Consequently, the description set forth herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to be limiting in any aspect to any particular refrigerator chamber configuration. 
     Refrigerator doors  128  are rotatably hinged to an edge of cabinet  120  for selectively accessing fresh food chamber  122 . In addition, a freezer door  130  is arranged below refrigerator doors  128  for selectively accessing freezer chamber  124 . Freezer door  130  is coupled to a freezer drawer (not shown) slidably mounted within freezer chamber  124 . Refrigerator doors  128  and freezer door  130  are shown in the closed configuration in  FIG. 1 . 
     In some embodiments, refrigerator appliance  100  also includes a dispensing assembly  140  for dispensing liquid water or ice. Dispensing assembly  140  includes a dispenser  142  positioned on or mounted to an exterior portion of refrigerator appliance  100  (e.g., on one of refrigerator doors  128 ). Dispenser  142  may include a discharging outlet  144  for accessing ice and liquid water. An actuating mechanism  146 , shown as a paddle, is mounted below discharging outlet  144  for operating dispenser  142 . In alternative exemplary embodiments, any suitable actuating mechanism may be used to operate dispenser  142 . For example, dispenser  142  can include a sensor (such as an ultrasonic sensor) or a button rather than the paddle. A control panel  148  is provided for controlling the mode of operation. For example, control panel  148  includes a plurality of user inputs (not labeled), such as a water dispensing button and an ice-dispensing button, for selecting a desired mode of operation such as crushed or non-crushed ice. 
     Discharging outlet  144  and actuating mechanism  146  are an external part of dispenser  142  and are mounted in a dispenser recess  150 . Dispenser recess  150  is positioned at a predetermined elevation convenient for a user to access ice or water and enabling the user to access ice without the need to bend-over and without the need to open refrigerator doors  128 . 
     According to exemplary embodiments, one or more storage components are mounted within fresh food chamber  122  to facilitate storage of food items therein as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the storage components may include storage bins  166 , drawers  168 , and shelves  171  that are mounted within fresh food chamber  122 . Storage bins  166 , drawers  168 , and shelves  171  are configured for receipt of food items (e.g., beverages or solid food items) and may assist with organizing such food items. As an example, drawers  168  can receive fresh food items (e.g., vegetables, fruits, or cheeses) and increase the useful life of such fresh food items. 
     In exemplary embodiments, chilled air from a sealed system of refrigerator appliance  100  may be directed into one or more chambers (e.g., fresh food chamber  122  or freezer chamber  124 ) in order to cool refrigerator appliance. For example, an evaporator  178  is generally configured for generating cooled or chilled air. Optionally, a supply conduit  180  (e.g., defined by or positioned within cabinet  120 ) may extend between evaporator  178  and one or more chilled chambers to direct air thereto. 
     In some embodiments, liquid water is collected within a portion of refrigerator appliance  100 . For example, liquid water may be generated during melting of frost or from ice cubes being stored within an ice storage bin, as is understood. In certain embodiments, liquid water is directed to an evaporation pan  172 . Evaporation pan  172  is positioned within a mechanical compartment  170  defined by cabinet  120  (e.g., at bottom portion  102  of cabinet  120 ). A condenser  174  of the sealed system can be positioned, for example, directly, above and adjacent evaporation pan  172 . Heat from condenser  174  can assist with evaporation of liquid water in evaporation pan  172 . A fan  176  configured for cooling condenser  174  can also direct a flow air across or into evaporation pan  172 . Thus, fan  176  can be positioned above and adjacent evaporation pan  172 . Evaporation pan  172  may be sized and shaped for facilitating evaporation of liquid water therein. For example, evaporation pan  172  may be open topped and extend across about a width or a depth of cabinet  120 . 
     Generally, operation of the refrigerator appliance  100  can be regulated by a controller  190  that is operatively coupled to user interface panel  148  or various other components. User interface panel  148  provides selections for user manipulation of the operation of refrigerator appliance  100 , such as selections between whole or crushed ice, chilled water, or other various options (e.g., the height of one or more variable shelves). In response to user manipulation of user interface panel  148  or one or more sensor signals, controller  190  may operate various components of the refrigerator appliance  100 . Controller  190  may include a memory and one or more microprocessors, CPUs or the like, such as general or special purpose microprocessors operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with operation of refrigerator appliance  100 . The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively, controller  190  may be constructed without using a microprocessor (e.g., using a combination of discrete analog or digital logic circuitry—such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. 
     Controller  190  may be positioned in a variety of locations throughout refrigerator appliance  100 . In the illustrated embodiment, controller  190  is located adjacent to or on user interface panel  148 . In other embodiments, controller  190  may be positioned at another suitable location within refrigerator appliance  100 , such as for example within a fresh food chamber, a freezer door, etc. Input/output (“I/O”) signals may be routed between controller  190  and various operational components of refrigerator appliance  100 . For example, user interface panel  148  may be in operable communication (e.g., electrical communication) with controller  190  via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses. 
     Turning now generally to  FIG. 3 through 12 , a variable shelf assembly  200  is illustrated according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, for instance in  FIG. 3 , variable shelf assembly  200  is mounted to a portion of liner  121  (e.g., at a back wall of liner  121 ). It is understood that variable shelf assembly  200  may include, or be provided as, one or more of shelves  171  ( FIG. 2 ). 
     Variable shelf assembly  200  includes a drive assembly  202  and a support assembly  204 . As shown, especially in  FIG. 3 , drive assembly  202  defines a movement axis A along which support assembly  204  may move. Specifically, drive assembly  202  may motivate or at least partially control movement of support assembly  204  along movement axis A (e.g., relative to liner  121 ). As will be described in detail below, drive assembly  202  may alternately move support assembly  204  in an upward direction U and a downward direction N along movement axis A. Generally, upward direction U may extend above support assembly  204  while downward direction N extends below support assembly  204 . When assembled, movement axis A may be parallel to the vertical direction V. Thus, drive assembly  202  may adjust the height of support assembly  204  within fresh food chamber  122 . 
     Turning especially to  FIGS. 3 through 7 , in some embodiments, support assembly  204  includes a shelving bracket  206  attached to drive assembly  202 . As the height of support assembly  204  is adjusted, shelving bracket  206  may move between two extreme positions (i.e., a first extreme position and a second extreme position). For instance, shelving bracket  206  may move between a base position (e.g., lowermost configuration) and a top position (e.g., uppermost configuration). Shelving bracket  206  may include a brace  208  that is located at two end portions  210  (e.g., lateral sides). As an example, a unified or continuous brace  208  may extend laterally or perpendicular to movement axis A between the two end portion  210 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . As another example, two discrete portions of brace  208  may be located at opposite end portions  210 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     One or more struts  212  may extend forward from brace  208  (e.g., away from liner  121  or toward the cabinet opening selectively covered by doors  128 — FIG. 2 ). As an example, a strut  212  may extend from brace  208  in the transverse direction T. In some such embodiments, a discrete strut  212  extends in the transverse direction T from each end portion  210  of brace  208 . 
     In exemplary embodiments, support assembly  204  includes a shelf or storage surface  214  attached to shelving bracket  206 . When assembled, storage surface  214  is generally supported by shelving bracket  206 . For instance, storage surface  214  may rest on top of shelving bracket  206  to move therewith (e.g., relative to movement axis A). Optionally, storage surface  214  may be fixed to shelving bracket  206  via one or more suitable adhesives, mechanical fasteners, or other attachment members. In example embodiments, storage surface  214  is a planar surface that extends orthogonal to movement axis A. In turn, storage surface  214  may include a flat plate formed from a suitable rigid material, such as tempered glass, plastic, or metal. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 through 7 , a mounting plate  216  (or mounting plates) is provided in some embodiments. Mounting plate(s)  216  may be removably or selectively attached to cabinet  120  (e.g., at liner  121 ). For instance, a retainer bar  218  (e.g., a pair of retainer bars  218 ) may be fixed to liner  121 . Retainer bar  218  may define one or more predetermined height indexes  220  to which drive assembly  202  mounts (e.g., at mounting plate  216 ). In some such embodiments, drive assembly  202  (e.g., at mounting plate  216 ) includes one or more index mounts  222 , which selectively secure drive assembly  202  to a predetermined height index  220 . As an example, predetermined height index  220  may be a receiving slot while index mount  222  is an n-shaped hook that may be selectively supported within the receiving slot. It is noted that although the height index-index mount pairs are shown, suitable alternative configurations may be provided within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., wherein each height index  220  is a u-shaped hook and index mount  222  is a receiving slot). 
     Optionally, a plurality of height indexes  220  may be defined along retainer bar  218  such that an index mount  222  may be received at multiple discrete heights. In other words, drive assembly  202  may selectively attach higher or lower along a retainer bar  218 , according to a user&#39;s desire. Moreover, multiple index mounts  222  may be provided. For instance, two or more index mounts  222  may be laterally spaced (i.e., spaced in the lateral direction L) on mounting plate  216  and correspond to two or more similarly spaced retainer bars  218 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 3 through 12 , generally, drive assembly  202  includes a stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  having multiple stationary actuators  226 ,  228 . For instance, stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  may include a first stationary actuator  226  and a second stationary actuator  228 . Generally, the stationary actuators  226 ,  228  are extendable between a shortened position and an elongated position. Thus, the length (e.g., axial length) of both stationary actuators  226 ,  228  is variable. Nonetheless, stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  may be fixed to mounting plate(s)  216  or index mounts  222 . In turn, a portion (e.g., cylinder) of both stationary actuators  226 ,  228  may be prevented from moving (e.g., vertically) with respect to mounting plate  216 . Thus, stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  is generally fixed relative to liner  121  when mounted within fresh food chamber  122 . 
     In certain embodiments, the first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  are mounted in mechanical parallel. Thus, first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  can extend in parallel to each other. For example, first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  may be positioned to extend along the movement axis A. In some such embodiments, first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  are extendable along the vertical direction V. Additionally or alternatively, first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  may be spaced apart (e.g., along the lateral direction L). When assembled, first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228  may thus be located proximal to opposite end portions  210 . 
     During use, the stationary actuators  226 ,  228  can be actuated or extended (e.g., along the movement axis A) between a shortened position (e.g., relatively short configuration) and an elongated position (e.g., relatively long configuration). In certain embodiments, the stationary actuators  226 ,  228  are synchronized to move simultaneously between their corresponding shortened positions and elongated positions. Shelving bracket  206  is in mechanical communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . For instance, shelving bracket  206  may be fixed to the sliding pistons of the stationary actuators  226 ,  228 . In turn, as stationary actuators  226 ,  228  move between their corresponding shortened positions and elongated positions (i.e., the shorted position and elongated position of stationary actuator set  224 ), shelving bracket  206  may also move between the base position and the elongated position. The shortened position of the stationary actuator set  224  corresponds to one extreme position (e.g., the base position) of the shelving bracket  206 , and the elongated position of the stationary actuator set  224  corresponds to the other extreme position (e.g., the top position) of the shelving bracket  206 . Thus, as stationary actuator set  224  is in the shortened position, the shelving bracket  206  is in one (e.g., first) extreme position. Similarly, as stationary actuator set  224  is in the elongated position, the shelving bracket  206  is in the other (e.g., second) position. 
     As shown, one or more movable hydraulic actuators  230  having an input cylinder  232  and an input piston  234  are mounted to the shelving bracket  206  (e.g., below storage surface  214 ). For example, the input cylinder  232  of one or more movable hydraulic actuators  230  may be joined to support assembly  204  via a suitable mechanical fastener, adhesive, etc. During use, the movable hydraulic actuator  230  or actuators  230 A,  230 B may thus move in tandem with shelving bracket  206  along the movement axis A. 
     Generally, each movable hydraulic actuator  230  includes an input piston  234  that is at least partially received by and slidable within a corresponding input cylinder  232 . In particular, input piston  234  is slidable between a retracted position and an extended position. As is understood, in the retracted position, a relatively large portion of input piston  234  is received within input cylinder  232 , reducing the volume of cylinder in which hydraulic fluid may be contained. By contrast, in the extended position, a relatively small portion of input piston  234  is received within input cylinder  232 , increasing the volume of cylinder in which hydraulic fluid may be contained. 
     When assembled, the input cylinder  232  is in fluid communication with the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Thus, hydraulic fluid may be exchanged (e.g., selectively exchanged) with stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . As hydraulic fluid is motivated from the input cylinder  232  (e.g., by movement of the input piston  234 ), the hydraulic fluid may be received within the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . In some embodiments, hydraulic fluid is sealed between the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Any displacement of hydraulic fluid within the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  may be transferred to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 , and vice versa. 
     Turning now especially to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , in certain embodiments, a single movable hydraulic actuator  230  is in fluid communication with both the first stationary actuator  226  and second stationary actuator  228 . As shown, a fluid joint  236  may connect, and split the hydraulic fluid flow between, the single movable hydraulic actuator  230  and the first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228 . For instance, a single input conduit  238  may extend between the input cylinder  232  and the fluid joint  236 . A pair of corresponding actuator conduits  240  may extend in fluid parallel from the fluid joint  236  to the first and second stationary actuators  226 ,  228 , respectively. Fluid to the stationary actuators  226 ,  228  may flow equally and in parallel from the fluid joint  236  and movable hydraulic actuator  230 . Thus, the position of input piston  234  relative to input cylinder  232  may simultaneously direct or indicate the position of both stationary actuators  226 ,  228 . 
     Turning now especially to  FIGS. 6 and 8 , in alternative embodiments, a separate movable actuator may be in fluid communication with a discrete stationary actuator. In particular, a first movable actuator  230 A having a corresponding input cylinder  232  and input piston  234  is in fluid communication with the first stationary actuator  226 . A second movable actuator  230 B having a corresponding input cylinder  232  and input piston  234  is in fluid communication with the second stationary actuator  228  (e.g., via a separate joint conduit—not pictured). In some embodiments, one (e.g., first) volume of hydraulic fluid is sealed between the first movable actuator  230 A and the first stationary actuator  226  while another (e.g., second) volume of hydraulic fluid is sealed between the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . Thus, the pair of the first movable actuator  230 A and first stationary actuator  226  may be fluidly isolated from the pair of the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . The position of the input piston  234  relative to the input cylinder  232  of the first movable actuator  230 A may independently direct or indicate the position of the first stationary actuator  226 . Similarly, the position of the input piston  234  relative to the input cylinder  232  of the second movable actuator  230 B may independently direct or indicate the position of the second stationary actuator  228 . 
     In some embodiments, the first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B are mounted in mechanical parallel. For instance, both the first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B may be located on and extendable in a plane perpendicular to the movement axis A, as shown. In the illustrated embodiments of  FIGS. 6 and 8 , the first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B are parallel to the lateral direction. The input pistons  234  of the first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B may be moved or slid in a parallel motion (e.g., side-by-side) along the lateral direction L. Although the motion or movement of the input pistons  234  of both movable actuators  230 A,  230 B is parallel, the input pistons  234  may be moved in tandem (e.g., to simultaneously and equally drive the stationary actuators  226 ,  228 ). In some such embodiments, the retracted position of the second movable actuator  230 B corresponds to the retracted position of the first movable actuator  230 A, and the extended position of the second movable actuator  230 B corresponds to the extended position of the first movable actuator  230 A. 
     Returning generally to  FIGS. 3 through 12 , drive assembly  202  includes an actuator handle  244  that is movably attached to shelving bracket  206  (e.g., below storage surface  214 ). For example, actuator handle  244  may be joined to support assembly  204  via a suitable bracket or fastener permitting relative movement of actuator handle  244  to shelving bracket  206 . During use, the actuator handle  244  may thus move in tandem with shelving bracket  206  along movement axis A. In addition, during use the actuator may be able to move (e.g., slide, rotate, pivot, etc.) relative to the shelving bracket  206 . 
     When assembled, the actuator handle  244  is in communication with the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230 . In particular, the actuator handle  244  may be mechanical communication with each input piston  234 . The position of the actuator handle  244  relative to the shelving bracket  206  may be linked to (e.g., correspond with) the position of each input piston  234 . During use, the actuator handle  244  may be positioned (e.g., as motivated by a user) to direct each input piston  234  between the extended position and the retracted position. 
     An input linkage assembly  246  may connect or link the actuator handle  244  and movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230 . Generally, the input linkage assembly  246  transfers or translates movement of the actuator handle  244  to the input piston(s)  234 . Thus, input linkage assembly  246  may include or be provided as any suitable mechanical transfer structure. 
     As an example, input linkage assembly  246  may include a mated pin-groove  248 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . In some such embodiments, movement of the actuator handle  244  (e.g., laterally or vertically relative to shelving bracket  206 ) is directly transferred to the input piston(s)  234 . 
     As another example, input linkage assembly  246  may include a rack-and-pinion gearing  250 , as shown in  FIG. 6 . In some such embodiments, a rotatable knob  252  is joined to the pinion to drive rotation thereof. Rotation of the rotatable knob  252  (e.g., relative to shelving bracket  206 ) may thus be translated into sliding movement to direct the input piston  234 . 
     As yet another example, input linkage assembly  246  may include a ratcheting pivot lever  254 , as shown in  FIG. 10 . In some such embodiments, ratcheting pivot lever  254  about a single direction (e.g., downward or counterclockwise relative to shelving bracket  206 ) is translated to sliding movement of the input pistons  234  ( FIG. 12 ). Rotation of the pivot lever  254  in the opposite direction (e.g., ratcheting or return motion) is isolated at a ratchet  256  ( FIG. 12 ) and thus not directed to the input piston(s)  234 . 
     As still another example, input linkage assembly  246  may include a ratcheting, contra-movement gear train, as shown in  FIG. 11 . In some such embodiments, actuator handle  244  includes a ratcheting hand grip  255  that is slidable (e.g., along the transverse direction T (e.g., relative to shelving bracket  206 ). Transverse movement of the ratcheting hand grip  255  in one direction (e.g., forward) may be translated to sliding movement of input pistons  234  in the opposite direction (e.g., rearward). Transverse movement of the ratcheting hand grip  255  in the opposite direction (e.g., rearward) may be isolated at the ratchet  256  ( FIG. 12 ) and thus is not directed to the input piston(s)  234 . 
     The above exemplary actuator handle-input linkage assembly embodiments are understood to be non-limiting and merely illustrative, except as otherwise indicated. It would be understood that further embodiments may include another suitable configuration of actuator handle (e.g., button, lever, wheel, knob, etc.) and input linkage assembly. Moreover, such input linkage assemblies may be configured to magnify any force or movement at the actuator handle to the movable hydraulic actuators, such as through a differential pulley gear train, fast-travel lead screw, etc. 
     Turning now especially to  FIG. 9 , in some embodiments, one or more valves are provided in fluid communication between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . 
     In certain embodiments, one or more check valves  258  are included along the fluid communication path between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . As an example, in embodiments including only a single movable actuator, a single check valve  258  may be provided between the single input cylinder  232  and both stationary hydraulic actuators  226 ,  228  ( FIG. 3 ). As another example, in embodiments including separate first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B ( FIG. 6 ), a separate check valve  258  may be provided between both the pair of the first movable actuator  230 A and first stationary actuator  226  as well as the pair of the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . 
     As understood, each check valve  258  is configured to permit a uni-directional fluid flow from the corresponding movable hydraulic actuator  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Thus, hydraulic fluid within the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  is generally prevented from entering the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  through the check valves  258 . Nonetheless, hydraulic fluid may be transferred through the check valve(s)  258  to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Specifically, mechanical movement of the actuator handle  244  is transferred or translated to the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  via the input linkage assembly  246 . Such mechanical movement may in turn motivate hydraulic fluid from the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  through the check valve(s)  258 . Moreover, as the hydraulic fluid is motivated to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 , the shelving bracket  206  may be motivated along the upward direction U ( FIG. 3 ). 
     In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more release valves  260  are included along the fluid communication path between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . As an example, in embodiments including only a single movable actuator, a release valve  260  may be provided between the single input cylinder  232  and both stationary hydraulic actuators  226 ,  228  ( FIG. 3 ). As another example, in embodiments including separate first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B ( FIG. 6 ), a separate release valve  260  may be provided between both the pair of the first movable actuator  230 A and first stationary actuator  226  as well as the pair of the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . In optional embodiments, the release valve(s)  260  are disposed in fluid parallel with the check valve(s)  258 . 
     As understood, each release valve  260  can be opened/closed and is configured to permit fluid communication between the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  and the corresponding movable hydraulic actuator  230  (e.g., when opened). Generally, each release valve  260  may be a normally-closed valve that is biased to the closed state. Opening the release valve(s)  260  may be controlled by a discrete release button  262  (e.g., mounted on actuator handle  244 ). For example, release button  262  may be mechanically connected to the release valve(s)  260  through a release linkage assembly  264 , such as a cable-operated lever. When the release button  262  is actuated, the release linkage assembly  264  may pull the release valve(s)  260  open. While the release valve(s)  260  are opened, pressure on the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  (e.g., provided by gravity and the weight of support assembly  204 — FIG. 3 ). Thus, hydraulic fluid within the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  is generally permitted or forced to the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  through the release valve(s)  260 . Moreover, as the hydraulic fluid is evacuated from the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 , the shelving bracket  206  may be motivated along the downward direction N ( FIG. 3 ). 
     Turning now especially to  FIG. 12 , in other embodiments, one or more valves are provided in fluid communication between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . 
     In certain embodiments, one or more check valves  258  are included along the fluid communication path between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . As an example, in embodiments including only a single movable actuator, a single check valve  258  may be provided between the single input cylinder  232  and both stationary hydraulic actuators  226 ,  228  ( FIG. 3 ). As another example, in embodiments including separate first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B ( FIG. 6 ), a separate check valve  258  may be provided between both the pair of the first movable actuator  230 A and first stationary actuator  226  as well as the pair of the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . 
     As understood, each check valve  258  is configured to permit a uni-directional fluid flow from the corresponding movable hydraulic actuator  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Thus, hydraulic fluid within the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  is generally prevented from entering the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  through the check valves  258 . Nonetheless, hydraulic fluid may be transferred through the check valve(s)  258  to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . Specifically, mechanical movement of the actuator handle  244  in a first direction (e.g., downward, counterclockwise, forward, etc.) is transferred or translated to the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  via the input linkage assembly  246 . In such embodiments, a ratchet  256  may be provided in one-way mechanical communication between the actuator handle  244  and the input piston(s)  234 . Thus, the ratchet  256  may translate movement of the actuator handle  244  in a first direction to the input piston(s)  234 , such as described above. Such mechanical movement may in turn motivate hydraulic fluid from the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  through the check valve(s)  258 . Moreover, as the hydraulic fluid is motivated to the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 , the shelving bracket  206  may be motivated along the upward direction U ( FIG. 3 ). 
     In additional or alternative embodiments, one or more release valves  260  are included along the fluid communication path between movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  and the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 . As an example, in embodiments including only a single movable actuator, a release valve  260  may be provided between the single input cylinder  232  and both stationary hydraulic actuators  226 ,  228  ( FIG. 3 ). As another example, in embodiments including separate first and second movable actuators  230 A,  230 B ( FIG. 6 ), a separate release valve  260  may be provided between both the pair of the first movable actuator  230 A and first stationary actuator  226  as well as the pair of the second movable actuator  230 B and the second stationary actuator  228 . In optional embodiments, the release valve(s)  260  are disposed in fluid parallel with the check valve(s)  258 . 
     As understood, each release valve  260  can be opened/closed and is configured to permit fluid communication between the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  and the corresponding movable hydraulic actuator  230  (e.g., when opened). Generally, each release valve  260  may be a normally-closed valve that is biased to the closed state. Opening the release valve(s)  260  may be controlled by movement or extension of actuator handle  244  in a second direction (e.g., upward, clockwise, rearward, etc.) that is separate and distinct from the first direction. For instance, the second direction may be separate from the first direction. The actuator handle  244  may be mechanically connected to the release valve(s)  260  through a release linkage assembly  264 , such as a cable-operated lever. When the actuator handle  244  is moved in the second direction, the ratchet  256  may isolate movement relative to the movable hydraulic actuators  230  while the release linkage assembly  264  pulls the release valve(s)  260  open. While the release valve(s)  260  are opened, pressure on the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  (e.g., provided by gravity and the weight of support assembly  204 — FIG. 3 ). Thus, hydraulic fluid within the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224  is generally permitted or forced to the movable hydraulic actuator(s)  230  through the release valve(s)  260 . Moreover, as the hydraulic fluid is evacuated from the stationary hydraulic actuator set  224 , the shelving bracket  206  may be motivated along the downward direction N ( FIG. 3 ). 
     This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.