electric heater

By designing a built-in handle structure on the electric heater and utilizing a ratchet mechanism and an elastic telescopic mechanism, the problem of external handles affecting appearance and use is solved, achieving a combination of aesthetic appeal and convenient operation.

CN115682088BActive Publication Date: 2025-10-31GREE ELECTRIC APPLIANCE INC OF ZHUHAI
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202211501131.9
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-11-28
Publication Date
2025-10-31
Estimated Expiration
2042-11-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The external handle structure of existing electric heaters affects both the aesthetics and the user experience.

Method used

Design an electric heater that uses a faceplate structure to integrate the handle structure into the installation opening, and uses a ratchet mechanism and an elastic telescopic mechanism to hide and reveal the handle, ensuring a smooth appearance and not affecting operation.

Benefits of technology

This enhances the aesthetic appeal of the electric heater without compromising its operation, thereby improving the product's competitiveness and user experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention discloses an electric heater, comprising: a main body with an installation opening and a handle structure inside the installation opening; and a face mask rotatably connected to the main body, the face mask being installed at the installation opening, the face mask having a first position with the installation opening open and a second position with the installation opening closed; the handle structure is exposed when the face mask is rotated to the first position. The electric heater of this invention effectively solves the problem of the external handle structure in existing electric heaters, which not only affects the aesthetics but also the usability of the heater.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electric heater technology, and more specifically, to an electric heater. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, existing electric heaters (such as oil-filled radiators) are usually designed with a handle for easier handling and transport. However, the handle has limited functionality and is not frequently used. This not only affects the aesthetics of the heater but also hinders its usability, as the buttons are also external.

[0003] In summary, the external handle structure of existing electric heaters not only affects their aesthetics but also their usability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides an electric heater to solve the problem that the external handle structure of existing electric heaters not only affects the aesthetics of the appearance but also the usability of the electric heater.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an electric heater, comprising: a body portion having an installation opening thereon, and a handle structure inside the installation opening; a face mask rotatably connected to the body portion, the face mask being installed at the installation opening, the face mask having a first position with the installation opening open and a second position with the installation opening closed; the handle structure is exposed when the face mask is rotated to the first position.

[0006] Furthermore, the mask has a rotating shaft, which connects the mask to the main body. The mask rotates about the rotating shaft as its axis.

[0007] Furthermore, the electric heater is equipped with a ratchet mechanism for positioning the face mask in a first position. The ratchet mechanism includes: a ratchet, which is mounted on a rotating shaft and the rotation axis of the ratchet is collinear with that of the rotating shaft; and a pawl, which is mounted on the main body and engages with the ratchet. A reset structure is connected to the pawl.

[0008] Furthermore, it also includes: an unlocking push rod, which is movably connected to the main body and is located at the pawl position; the unlocking push rod can push the pawl to disengage from the ratchet.

[0009] Furthermore, a return spring is connected between the unlocking push rod and the main body.

[0010] Furthermore, a spherical fixing frame is provided on the main body; the end of the rotating shaft has a spherical structure and is inserted into the spherical fixing frame.

[0011] Furthermore, an elastic baffle is provided on the inner wall of the spherical fixing frame. The elastic baffle locks the rotating shaft to prevent it from dislodging from the spherical fixing frame.

[0012] Furthermore, the rotating shaft is located in the middle of the mask, and the handle structure is located above the mask; an elastic telescopic mechanism is provided on the main body, which is located inside the mounting opening and is connected to the top of the mask; when the mask is in the first position, the top of the mask presses against the elastic telescopic mechanism, and the elastic telescopic mechanism applies a reverse force to the top of the mask.

[0013] Furthermore, the main body includes a slab and a front shell, with the front shell fixed to the slab; an elastic telescopic mechanism is installed on the front shell, and after deformation, the elastic telescopic mechanism pushes the front shell toward the slab to abut against it.

[0014] Furthermore, the front shell is provided with a buckle, which is snapped onto the treadmill body; the buckle includes one or more of the following types: R-type buckle, arrow buckle, and pin buckle.

[0015] The electric heater of this invention features a faceplate structure and a handle structure integrated into the mounting opening. When the handle structure is not needed, the faceplate is rotated to a second position to close the mounting opening, thus concealing the handle structure. When the handle structure is needed, the faceplate is rotated to a first position to open the mounting opening, exposing the handle structure for user access. In the second position, the faceplate makes the outer surface of the electric heater smoother and more unified, improving its aesthetic appeal. Even when not in use, the handle structure does not interfere with external buttons or controls, but does not affect the operation of the electric heater, enhancing the product's competitiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric heater's faceplate in the second position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric heater's face shield in the first position according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the face shield of the electric heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the ratchet mechanism and unlocking push rod of the electric heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structural fit between the faceplate and the main body of the electric heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the structural fit between the spherical fixing frame and the rotating shaft of the electric heater according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structural cooperation between the elastic telescopic mechanism of the electric heater and the face mask according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electric heater according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, but this is not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0025] See Figures 1 to 8 As shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention, an electric heater is provided, comprising a body portion 10 and a face mask 20. The body portion 10 is provided with a mounting opening 11, and a handle structure 12 is provided inside the mounting opening 11. The face mask 20 is rotatably connected to the body portion 10 and is mounted at the mounting opening 11. The face mask 20 has a first position with the mounting opening 11 open and a second position with the mounting opening 11 closed; when the face mask 20 is rotated to the first position, the handle structure 12 is exposed.

[0026] The electric heater of the present invention adds a face mask structure and integrates a handle structure inside the mounting opening. When the handle structure is not needed, the face mask is rotated to a second position to close the mounting opening, thereby hiding the handle structure. See [link to previous section]. Figure 1 When the handle structure is needed, rotate the face mask to the first position and open the mounting opening to expose the handle structure. The user can then use the handle structure. See [link / reference]. Figure 2 The cover, when in its second position, makes the heater's outer surface smoother and more seamless, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The handle structure, even when not in use, does not interfere with the external buttons or knobs, thus not affecting the heater's operation and enhancing its competitiveness.

[0027] Combination Figure 3 As shown, the face mask 20 has a rotating shaft 21, and the face mask 20 is connected to the main body 10 via the rotating shaft 21. The face mask 20 rotates about the rotating shaft 21 as its axis. The structure of the rotating shaft facilitates the disassembly of the face mask, making maintenance and cleaning faster.

[0028] To protect users from injury caused by the rotating face mask when using the handle, the electric heater is equipped with a ratchet mechanism that positions the face mask 20 in the first position. The ratchet mechanism includes a ratchet 31 and a pawl 32. The ratchet 31 is mounted on the rotating shaft 21, and the ratchet 31 is collinear with the rotating shaft 21. The pawl 32 is mounted on the main body 10 and engages with the ratchet 31. A reset structure is connected to the pawl 32. (See also...) Figure 4 The face mask 20 rotates after being pushed by the user. The rotating shaft rotates, driving the ratchet 31 to rotate. After the face mask reaches the first position, the ratchet and pawl form a limit and automatically lock to prevent the face mask from springing back. The directional rotation and automatic locking principle of the ratchet mechanism fixes the face mask at a certain angle after rotation, making it easy for the user to use the handle structure, while protecting the user's hands and providing stable safety and convenience.

[0029] The electric heater also includes an unlocking push rod 41, which is movably connected to the main body 10 and is positioned at the pawl 32. The unlocking push rod 41 can push the pawl 32 out of engagement with the ratchet 31. See also Figure 4 After using the handle mechanism, pushing the unlocking push rod 41 causes the pawl to be lifted and disengaged from the ratchet 31, thereby releasing the ratchet mechanism from its locked state and pushing the face mask back to its second position, thus restoring the face mask to its original shape and concealing the handle mechanism. The unlocking push rod 41 is located on the main body, with its operating end situated on the outer surface of the heater for easy user operation. The abutment of the unlocking push rod 41 faces the pawl.

[0030] Furthermore, to facilitate the repeated reset of the unlocking push rod 41, a reset spring 42 is connected between the unlocking push rod 41 and the main body 10 in this embodiment. The reset spring 42 is used to reset the unlocking push rod and can repeatedly push the unlocking push rod.

[0031] Combination Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a spherical fixing bracket 13 is provided on the main body 10; the end of the rotating shaft 21 is a spherical structure 21a, and the end of the rotating shaft 21 is inserted into the spherical fixing bracket 13. The cooperation between the spherical fixing bracket 13 and the spherical structure 21a will make the rotation smoother, the mask more comfortable to use, and improve user comfort.

[0032] An elastic baffle 13a is provided on the inner wall of the spherical fixing frame 13. The elastic baffle 13a locks the rotating shaft 21 to prevent the rotating shaft 21 from detaching from the spherical fixing frame 13. The elastic baffle 13a is positioned on the path of the rotating shaft 21 detaching from the spherical fixing frame to prevent the rotating shaft from falling off during rotation. This allows the mask to be installed by snap-fit ​​without making the mask easily fall off.

[0033] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 7As shown, the rotating shaft 21 is located in the middle of the face mask 20, and the handle structure 12 is located above the face mask 20. An elastic telescopic mechanism 50 is provided on the main body 10, located inside the mounting opening 11, and connected to the top of the face mask 20. When the face mask 20 is in the first position, the top of the face mask 20 presses against the elastic telescopic mechanism 50, and the elastic telescopic mechanism 50 applies a reverse force to the top of the face mask 20. The elastic telescopic mechanism can be a spring structure, an elastic telescopic rod, etc. By pushing the top of the face mask 20, the top of the face mask extends into the mounting opening, thereby opening the mounting opening and exposing the handle structure located above the face mask 20. After being compressed, the elastic telescopic mechanism applies a reverse force to the top of the face mask 20, so that after the ratchet mechanism is released, the face mask returns to the second position.

[0034] The main body 10 includes a slab 14 and a front shell 15, with the front shell 15 fixed to the slab 14. An elastic telescopic mechanism 50 is installed on the front shell 15, and after the elastic telescopic mechanism 50 deforms, it pushes the front shell 15 toward the slab 14 to abut.

[0035] Based on the above structural design and the accompanying drawings, the working principle of the electric heater of the present invention is as follows:

[0036] The purpose of rotating the face shield is to use or conceal the handle structure. When the handle structure is needed, push the top of the face shield to rotate it, thus revealing the handle structure. Simultaneously, the ratchet rotates, compressing the elastic telescopic mechanism. Due to the characteristics of the ratchet mechanism, the rotation is unidirectional. Therefore, after pushing the face shield, it will be locked in the first position and remain stationary. That is, after revealing the handle structure, the face shield will not return to its original state, so there is no need to worry about pinching your hand during use. At the same time, the compression of the elastic telescopic mechanism not only exerts a force on the face shield but also a reaction force on the radiator body, making the assembly of the front shell and the radiator body more secure, thus providing more reliable support for moving the oil heater. After using the handle structure, push the unlocking lever 41 to lift the pawl and disengage it from the ratchet 31, thereby releasing the ratchet mechanism from its locked state. Push the face shield back to the second position, returning it to its original shape, achieving the purpose of concealing the handle structure.

[0037] Preferably, the front shell 15 is provided with a buckle 60, and the front shell 15 is snapped onto the body 14 by the buckle 60; the buckle 60 includes one or more of the following types: R-type buckle, arrow buckle, and pin buckle.

[0038] Since snap-fit ​​fastening is needed instead of traditional screw fastening, not only the tightness of the snap-fit, but also its stability and ease of installation must be considered. R-type snap-fits, with their upturned tail design, provide a guiding function, facilitating installation. Their teardrop-shaped, elastic design provides a very stable clamping force, making them more stable and secure. Arrow-shaped and pin-type snap-fits are primarily used for the assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of the front housing, while also ensuring secure fastening after installation. The arrowhead of the snap-fit ​​and pin-type snap-fit ​​serves as a guide, facilitating the installation and disassembly of the front housing. The tail of the arrow, due to the elasticity of the material and the leverage properties of the structure, applies significant pressure after installation, firmly fixing the front housing to the mounting body, providing a very stable fastening effect sufficient to replace the tightening and stabilizing effect of traditional screws. Snap-fit ​​connections can reduce material costs, shorten assembly time, improve assembly efficiency, enhance product pricing, and increase product sales.

[0039] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments according to this application. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0040] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in sequences other than those illustrated or described herein.

[0041] Of course, the above are preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the basic principles of the present invention, and these improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An electric heater, characterized in that, include: The main body (10) is provided with an installation opening (11), and a handle structure (12) is provided inside the installation opening (11); A face mask (20) is rotatably connected to the body part (10), the face mask (20) is installed at the mounting opening (11), and the face mask (20) has a first position with the mounting opening (11) open and a second position with the mounting opening (11) closed. When the mask (20) is rotated to the first position, the handle structure (12) is exposed; The mask (20) has a rotating shaft (21), the mask (20) is connected to the body part (10) through the rotating shaft (21), the mask (20) rotates about the rotating shaft (21) as the axis, the rotating shaft (21) is located in the middle of the mask (20), and the handle structure (12) is located above the mask (20); When the handle structure is not needed, the face mask (20) is rotated to the second position to close the mounting opening (11), thereby hiding the handle structure. When the handle structure is needed, the face mask (20) is rotated to the first position and the mounting opening (11) is opened to expose the handle structure. By pushing the top of the face mask (20), the top of the face mask (20) is inserted into the mounting opening (11) to open the mounting opening (11) and expose the handle structure located above the face mask (20).

2. The electric heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electric heater is provided with a ratchet mechanism for positioning the face mask (20) in a first position, the ratchet mechanism comprising: A ratchet (31) is mounted on the rotating shaft (21), and the ratchet (31) is collinear with the rotating shaft (21). A pawl (32) is mounted on the body (10), the pawl (32) engages with the ratchet (31), and a reset structure is connected to the pawl (32).

3. The electric heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, Also includes: Unlocking push rod (41), which is movably connected to the main body (10) and is located at the position of the pawl (32); The unlocking push rod (41) can push the pawl (32) to disengage from the ratchet (31).

4. The electric heater according to claim 3, characterized in that, A reset spring (42) is connected between the unlocking push rod (41) and the main body (10).

5. The electric heater according to claim 1, characterized in that, A spherical fixing frame (13) is provided on the main body (10); The end of the rotating shaft (21) is a spherical structure (21a), and the end of the rotating shaft (21) is inserted into the spherical fixing frame (13).

6. The electric heater according to claim 5, characterized in that, An elastic baffle (13a) is provided on the inner wall of the spherical fixing frame (13). The elastic baffle (13a) locks the rotating shaft (21) to prevent the rotating shaft (21) from disengaging from the spherical fixing frame (13).

7. The electric heater according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main body (10) is provided with an elastic telescopic mechanism (50), which is located inside the mounting opening (11) and is connected to the top of the mask (20). When the mask (20) is in the first position, the top of the mask (20) presses against the elastic telescopic mechanism (50), and the elastic telescopic mechanism (50) applies a reverse force to the top of the mask (20).

8. The electric heater according to claim 7, characterized in that, The main body (10) includes a slab (14) and a front shell (15), the front shell (15) being fixed to the slab (14); The elastic telescopic mechanism (50) is installed on the front shell (15). After the elastic telescopic mechanism (50) deforms, it pushes the front shell (15) toward the slab (14) to abut.

9. The electric heater according to claim 8, characterized in that, The front shell (15) is provided with a buckle (60), and the front shell (15) is snapped onto the slab body (14) by the buckle (60); The buckle (60) includes one or more of the following types: R-type buckle, arrow buckle, and pin buckle.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Electric heater

    CN219083243U